Donut Display Steals Center Stage

Dunkin’ Donuts aren’t usually seen at The Four Seasons, one of New York’s most elegant restaurants.

But on Thursday a silver platter filled with donuts - from glazed to chocolate-frosted - attracted more interest than the pumpkin ravioli and grilled salmon served at a publicity luncheon by the donut maker.

The donuts were just for show as the company announced plans to double its U.S. outlet presence by the year 2001. But those in attendance were hoping for a nibble nevertheless.

The Randolph, Mass.-based company runs nearly 3,000 outlets in the United States, making it one of the top ranked franchisers in the nation. Seventeen U.S. cities have been targeted for the expansion, from Jacksonville, Fla., to Detroit.