CANTON, MA – Dunkin’ Donuts is continuing its California expansion by building 26 new locations in the San Francisco and Fresno regions, the company announced earlier this week.  The new locations will be built and operated by two current franchisees, according to the announcement.

Aharon Aminpour, who already operates a location in Encino, Calif., plans to develop 17 locations in Fresno and the surrounding areas, while Shiva Developments will build nine locations in San Francisco.

“We are thrilled these existing franchisees have chosen to expand their presence in the California market, and know these new restaurants will satisfy a growing consumer demand for Dunkin’ Donuts in the Fresno and San Francisco communities they will serve,” Grant Benson, vice president of global franchising and business development for Dunkin’ owner Dunkin’ Brands, said in a statement.

These new deals bring the number of locations the operator is planning to open in California to 275. California is a key market for the chain, which has been largely based on the East Coast until recently.

The first locations in both regions are expected to open in 2017.