Ecuador's Competition Regulator Approves Dunkin' Donuts Asset Acquisition

The Superintendencia de Competencia Económica (SCE) announced on Monday, September 14, 2026, its authorization for Restaurantes Unidos Restaunsa S.A. to acquire assets from Donut House S.A.

This acquisition encompasses all productive and operational assets previously utilized by Donut House S.A. The acquiring entity, Restaurantes Unidos Restaunsa S.A., will assume control of a business unit responsible for the production, distribution, and commercialization of donuts, bakery products, and beverages under the Dunkin' Donuts brand.

The SCE, as the regulatory body for economic concentration operations, conducted an analysis to evaluate potential market effects. The assessment specifically focused on possible vertical relationships between Dunkin' Donuts and companies within Grupo El Rosado, the conglomerate to which Restaunsa belongs. The analysis determined that these relationships do not generate significant risks for competition.

Quantified Outcome: The SCE concluded that the transaction is not expected to cause a substantial decrease in competition, nor is it anticipated to create or reinforce a dominant market position in the analyzed sectors. The organization underscores its mandate in the prior control of economic concentration operations, aiming to preserve competition and foster efficient market operations.

What to watch

• Market Integration: Observe the operational integration of the Dunkin' Donuts brand into Restaurantes Unidos Restaunsa S.A.'s existing business structure.
• Competitive Landscape: Monitor any shifts in the competitive dynamics within Ecuador's bakery and beverage sectors following this acquisition, particularly concerning other established and emerging market participants.

Sources: eluniverso.com.