Dunkin’ has officially launched its new location on Highway 80 East, serving its famous coffees, donuts, and other treats to eager customers starting Friday morning. Following suit, Popeyes also opened its doors on Monday, delighting patrons with its signature fried chicken and New Orleans specialties.
These new restaurants mark the second Popeyes and the third Dunkin’ outlet in Statesboro, both owned by local businessman Tiku Shroff. With a successful track record in the restaurant industry, Shroff also operates the Popeyes and Dunkin’ on Fair Road, along with a Dunkin’ located inside the Walmart Supercenter.
In August 2023, Shroff acquired a three-acre site for these new establishments, situated across from Lowe’s and adjacent to the entrance of Bel-Air Estates. This location is part of a growing commercial corridor, which has seen the establishment of several restaurants and businesses over the past year, including Texas Roadhouse, Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Que, and Five Guys. Additionally, an AutoZone auto parts store is currently under construction, set to open in 2025.
The Highway 80 East area is poised for further development as the population in southern Bulloch County continues to increase. The opening of the Hyundai EV Metaplant is anticipated to bolster local production and support industries.
Tiku Shroff, now 64, has an extensive background in the restaurant sector in Statesboro. After immigrating to the U.S. in 1981, he graduated from Georgia Southern and purchased his first restaurant, Sub Station II, in 1987. His journey in the industry includes the operation of a Baskin Robbins franchise, and he currently manages a Dunkin’ and Baskin Robbins combo store still thriving on Fair Road.
In addition to the new Dunkin’ and Popeyes, Shroff owns other franchises across Georgia, reflecting his successful and enduring presence in the restaurant community.
These new openings not only enhance the dining options in Statesboro but also signify a positive trend towards growth and development in the area, providing residents with more job opportunities and convenient access to beloved food chains.
As the local economy continues to flourish alongside the expansion of infrastructure and businesses like Hyundai’s Metaplant, the future looks promising for Statesboro and its community.