Going on a Dunkin’ Run?

At least twice daily, I will have someone duck their head in my office and say “I’m making a _____ run.  Want anything?”  While the location may vary between locations, Dunkin’ is using a little bit of internet flair to make their stores the preferred location with the release of Dunkin’ Run.  With the Dunkin’ Run website, the coffee runner can login, enter in the names/emails of their friends and co-workers as well as the time that they are leaving to pick up.  Friends, get an email (or notification on their iphone) and can place their exact order over, which are then reassembled into an easy to print (or display on an iphone).

This is a great example of how a major brand is embracing the power of social media for more than just the “everyone else is doing it,” mentality.  This is actually a driver of traffic to the store.  Quite frankly it’s really nice to be able to click your order just how you like it.  (No longer will I get my x-large hazelnut black with a whopping ladle full of sugar.)  I would expect similar outlets to follow suit in short order.  It’s just too easy to be able to collect data and user preferences.  Though Dunkin’ doesn’t allow for online ordering and pickup, I’m sure it’s not far away.