The doughnut wars head west

Rings of glazed fried dough are big business in America. Doughnuts inspire loyalty in people, whether it be to a local shop or a national chain. Say like Dunkin’ Donuts.

The Los Angeles Times reported today that the New England mainstay is returning to Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, San Bernardino, Ventura and Orange counties.

Dunkin’ Donuts, according to the story, is eyeing opening 150 stores in Southern California to start. Astonishingly, the company might eventually open as many as 1,000 doughnut emporiums throughout the Golden State.

Now that's a plan with a lot of holes!

Dunkin’ Donuts hasn't had any outposts in the state famous for the iconic Randy's Donuts in a decade. As a matter of quick comparison, rival Krispy Kreme's website lists 20 current California stores. So this is a major push in the highly competitive snack cake world.

It's big news for travelers, too. The story reports that Dunkin’ Donuts is favoring opening stores in places like universities, casinos, military bases and supermarkets and airports -- all of which see many people on-the-go.

But you don't need to rush out and buy plane tickets to LAX right now. The new westernmost Dunkin’ Donuts won't start opening until 2015.

Dunkin’ Donuts photo courtesy of Robert Banh