MCD - Is Dunkin' Brands a Retiree's Dream Stock?
Dunkin' Brands (NASDAQ: DNKN) has struggled with its identity. The company dropped the word "Donuts" from its name even though it still sells the tasty pastries.
The coffee and pastry brand has tried to put more focus on its beverage business. That's a smart play from a margin point of view, but it places Dunkin' in between two giant competitors. At the higher end, the chain must battle Starbucks (NASDAQ: SBUX), and at the lower-priced end of the spectrum Dunkin' has to fend off McDonald's (NYSE: MCD), which often uses its McCafe brand as a loss leader.
That's a very tough position to be in, but the company has found ways to continue to grow. It also steadily pays a dividend, which should make it a brand that retirees at least take a look at.