Multi-unit Area Manager Dani Pitterle said the training was to ensure a quality experience for Houghton on opening morning.

“We went through and meticulously trained everyone so that way we don’t have any errors and we can have as good as customer service as we can get right away to start,” she said. “We are so excited to be in this market. We know everyone and anyone who drove through the last week and a half thought we were open and just wanted their Dunkin’ Baskin already.”

Pitterle said that the group of employees that have been hired at this Dunkin’ are some of the best she has seen to date for a new store and that they will help the store thrive. They undertook a three-week training period in a week and a half and exhibited the ability to learn fast. Pitterle also explained that the limited competition in Houghton at a very early opening time will give them an advantage with morning rushes and serving ice cream will give customers a reason to stop by in the evening.

The grand opening for Dunkin’ will take place in the next two months, according to Pitterle, with the next two weeks expected to be incredibly busy. The main focus will be acclimating the employees to the Dunkin’ system and to establish a good impression with the community. There will also be a ribbon cutting with the Chamber of Commerce, but the day that will fall on is dependent on when the opportunity presents itself to both the chamber and the coffee shop. In the meantime Dunkin’ is offering a $6 meal deal for a breakfast sandwich, hash browns and a medium hot or iced coffee.

Shown is the sign that greets customers at the front door of the new Dunkin’ at 501 Memorial Drive. This Dunkin’ location will open everyday at 5 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. (Ben Garbacz/Daily Mining Gazette)

“I know that Houghton will now run on Dunkin/Baskin all day, every day, and we are excited to be here,” Pitterle said. “This is a great town. Everyone is so excited for us to be here, so I’m excited to be here as well.”