Schuler’s isn’t worried about the competition.
“I’m glad they’re there, they have taken a vacant lot and done something to improve it and they’re bringing in jobs,” Schuler’s President Mike Peters said. “I wish them success.”
The store has been open on a limited schedule, giving employees a chance to test their skills and equipment, said Rob Beil, director of operations for Dunkin’ Donuts franchise group, Gilligan Oil.
It opens for full service and hours on Thursday. The new store hours will be 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.
“We have big plans for opening day on Thursday,” Beil said.
Dunkin’ Donuts picked the location based on the availability of the lot, the community and interstate access, Beil said, and wants to create a positive presence in the community.
“The competition will be everybody … Dunkin’ is about coffee, breakfast sandwiches and lunch sandwiches all day long,” Beil said.
Schuler’s is also more than doughnuts, Peters said. The bakery also carries cookies, cakes, coffee and more.
“We’re hoping that our own loyal customer will give them a try,” Peters said.
Schuler’s slogan is “Home of the Homemade.” It have been in business for 78 years, started by John Schuler. The bakery currently has three locations in Springfield and one in Urbana.
“Everything is still done the way John Shuler did back in 1937,” Peters said. “We make everything from scratch, we hope customers appreciate our efforts.”
Dunkin’ Donuts sells more breakfast sandwiches and coffee, Peters said, and might have more of an effect on McDonald’s business.
“Hopefully that separates us a bit,” Peters said.
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