Fast food has become an integral part of modern-day life, with numerous brands offering a variety of options to cater to different tastes and preferences. Two well-known names in the fast-food industry are Togo’s and Baskin Robbins. Togo’s is famous for its hearty sandwiches, while Baskin Robbins is renowned for its wide array of ice cream flavors. But an interesting question often arises among fast-food enthusiasts: Are Togo’s and Baskin Robbins the same company? To answer this, we need to delve into the history, ownership, and operations of both brands.
The Origins of Togo’s And Baskin Robbins
Togo’s: A Journey Through Time
Togo’s, founded in 1971 in San Jose, California, started as a small sandwich shop known for its large portions and fresh ingredients. The idea behind Togo’s was simple: offer high-quality sandwiches made with fresh ingredients, and customers will keep coming back. The concept worked, and Togo’s quickly gained popularity, leading to the opening of more locations across California. Today, Togo’s franchise is recognized for its variety of sandwiches, including turkey, roast beef, and pastrami, served with fresh vegetables and artisan bread.
Baskin Robbins: The Birth of a Legendary Ice Cream Brand
Baskin Robbins, on the other hand, has a history that dates back even further. It was founded in 1945 by Burt Baskin and Irv Robbins in Glendale, California. The brand quickly became famous for its “31 flavors” concept, which allowed customers to try a different flavor every day of the month. This idea was revolutionary at the time and set Baskin Robbins apart from other ice cream shops. Over the years, Baskin Robbins expanded globally, becoming one of the most recognizable names in the ice cream industry.
SEE ALSO: How Many Branches Are There in Togo’s Franchise?
Ownership And Corporate Structure
The Dunkin’ Brands Connection
To understand whether Togo’s and Baskin Robbins are the same company, we need to examine their ownership structure.
Baskin Robbins is part of Dunkin’ Brands, a corporation that also owns Dunkin’ Donuts, another iconic fast-food brand.
Dunkin’ Brands was formed in 2004 when Allied Domecq, the parent company of Baskin Robbins and Dunkin’ Donuts, decided to merge the two brands under a single corporate umbrella. This move allowed the brands to leverage each other’s strengths and expand more rapidly.
Togo’s Corporate Journey
Togo’s, however, has a different corporate history. After its initial success in the 1970s, Togo’s was acquired by several different companies over the years. In 1997, Togo’s was purchased by Allied Domecq, the same company that owned Baskin Robbins. This acquisition brought Togo’s and Baskin Robbins under the same corporate roof for a time. However, in 2007, Dunkin’ Brands decided to sell Togo’s to a private equity firm, which eventually led to Togo’s becoming a standalone brand, separate from Dunkin’ Brands and Baskin Robbins.
Franchising And Brand Operations
Franchise Models: Similarities and Differences
Both Togo’s Franchise and Baskin Robbins operate on a franchise model, allowing individual entrepreneurs to open and operate their own locations under the brand’s name. This model has been instrumental in the growth of both brands, allowing them to expand quickly while maintaining consistency in quality and customer experience.
However, there are significant differences in how the two brands approach franchising. Baskin Robbins, being part of Dunkin’ Brands, benefits from the extensive resources and support that come with being part of a larger corporation.
Franchisees receive comprehensive training, marketing support, and access to a well-established supply chain. This has enabled Baskin Robbins to maintain a strong global presence with over 8,000 locations worldwide.
Togo’s franchise, on the other hand, operates on a smaller scale, with most of its locations concentrated in the western United States. While Togo’s franchisees also receive training and support, the brand operates independently, without the backing of a large corporate parent like Dunkin’ Brands. This has allowed Togo’s to maintain a more localized, boutique feel, which appeals to customers who prefer a more personalized dining experience.
Menu And Customer Experience
Baskin Robbins: A Sweet Escape
Baskin Robbins is synonymous with ice cream. Its extensive menu includes not only a wide variety of ice cream flavors but also ice cream cakes, sundaes, and other frozen treats. The brand is known for its creative and sometimes whimsical flavors, such as “Jamoca Almond Fudge” and “Rainbow Sherbet,” which have become fan favorites over the years. Baskin Robbins locations are often designed with a bright, fun atmosphere that appeals to families and ice cream lovers of all ages.
Togo’s: A Savory Delight
Togo’s, by contrast, focuses on savory sandwiches. The brand prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients, including freshly sliced meats, hand-smashed avocados, and artisan bread. Togo’s menu offers a wide range of options, from classic sandwiches like turkey and avocado to more unique offerings like the “Hot Pastrami” or “Turkey and Cranberry.” The dining experience at Togo’s is more laid-back and casual, with an emphasis on providing a satisfying, hearty meal.
Marketing And Branding Strategies
Baskin Robbins: Nostalgia Meets Innovation
Baskin Robbins has successfully balanced nostalgia with innovation in its marketing efforts. The brand often taps into the sentimental value of its long-standing flavors while introducing new, limited-time offerings to keep customers coming back. Baskin Robbins also leverages social media and digital marketing to engage with younger audiences, often using vibrant visuals and interactive campaigns.
Togo’s: Focused on Quality
Togo’s marketing strategy revolves around its commitment to quality. The brand emphasizes the freshness and authenticity of its ingredients, often highlighting the artisan nature of its sandwiches. Togo’s franchise also engages in community-based marketing, sponsoring local events and supporting causes that resonate with its customer base. This localized approach helps Togo’s build a loyal customer base, particularly in areas where the brand has a strong presence.
Are They The Same Company?
The Short Answer: No, But They Were Once Connected.
While Togo’s and Baskin Robbins are not currently the same company, they were once connected under the same corporate ownership. During the time when both brands were owned by Allied Domecq, and later Dunkin’ Brands, there was a corporate link between the two. However, since Togo’s was sold in 2007, it has operated independently, separate from Baskin Robbins and Dunkin’ Brands.
The Current Relationship
Today, Togo’s and Baskin Robbins are entirely separate entities, each with its own corporate structure, branding, and operational strategies. While they may have shared a corporate parent in the past, their current business models and brand identities are distinct. Togo’s continues to focus on offering high-quality sandwiches with a local, personalized touch, while Baskin Robbins remains a global leader in the ice cream industry, known for its wide variety of flavors and innovative frozen treats.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Togo’s and Baskin Robbins share a rich history and were once part of the same corporate family, they are now separate companies with distinct identities and business models. Both brands have carved out their niches in the fast-food industry, with Togo’s focusing on hearty sandwiches and Baskin Robbins specializing in delightful ice cream. For fast food lovers, both Togo’s and Baskin Robbins offer unique and satisfying experiences, making them beloved names in their respective markets.