CANTON, MASS. – Dunkin’ Donuts has signed agreements with two franchise groups that call for developing 50 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in Greater London over the next five years. The chain also is in discussions with additional franchise partners and possibly may develop a total of 150 restaurants in the United Kingdom over the next five years, Dunkin’ Donuts said Sept. 12.

The Court Group, chaired by U.K. businessman David Sheepshanks, plans to open 25 restaurants in East London. DDMG Ltd., a partnership formed by three U.S. Dunkin’ Donuts franchisees from the Baltimore/Philadelphia area and two U.K. operators, plans to develop 25 restaurants in North London.

“We feel there is a significant opportunity for Dunkin’ Donuts in the U.K., and we have a tremendous response from potential franchisees interested in developing the brand across the country,” said Giorgio Minardi, president of Dunkin’ Brands International. “We are especially delighted to begin the expansion of Dunkin’ Donuts into the U.K. with The Court Group and DDMG Ltd., two experienced franchisees who have a deep passion for the brand and a solid understanding of the local market.”

The U.K. restaurants will feature a range of coffees, teas, espresso-based beverages, Coolatta frozen drinks, donuts, muffins, croissants and sandwiches. The restaurants also will offer regional menu items specific to the United Kingdom and options from a DDSmart line-up.

Dunkin’ Donuts, a business of Canton-based Dunkin’ Brands, Inc., has more than 10,500 restaurants in 31 countries. More than 100 locations in Europe are found in the countries of Bulgaria, Germany, Russia and Spain. Baskin-Robbins, also owned by Dunkin’ Brands, has 100 locations in the United Kingdom. They include free-standing restaurants as well as concession locations in other shops and cinemas.