Residents who attended the hearing were heavily in support of locally owned Jim’s — and against the chain restaurant and pastry store that would be built a 15-second walk away.
“They’re just trying to put Jim’s out of business,” said Tami Perkins, born and raised in Vandalia. “It’s a small business. They’re super nice. They’re like family. And their donuts are awesome.”
A manager at Jim’s declined to comment publicly, but told this news organization she encourages new development and new jobs in Vandalia. However, she also appreciates her customers fighting for her business on East National Road.
Perkins said she encourages new business as well, but not a competitor next door to what she calls a “mom and pop shop.”
“I mean there’s plenty of restaurants on Miller Lane,” said Perkins, who has been a Jim’s customer all her life. “There’s other places in Vandalia that they can build.”
Officials at the corporate offices of Dunkin’ Donuts did not respond to requests for comment.
The location on East National Road would be the sixth Dayton-Springfield area location. Local franchise owner Pat Gilligan has said he hopes to open before the end of the year.
Gilligan is also opening a Dunkin’ Donuts in the 1300 block of Woodman Drive/Wright Bros. Parkway, just south of Linden Avenue in Riverside.
His other shops — all of which have opened in the last two years — are located in Sugarcreek Twp., Springfield, Kettering, and south Centerville. The Springfield shop is next door to popular Schuler’s Bakery.
About the Author