The Washington Post's Marc Fisher reported today on the travails of Jim Willard, who owns a couple of Dunkin' Donuts franchise locations in Maryland. Willard has operated his Potomac and Rockville locations kosher, to the pleasure of the local Jewish population. However, in a move of astounding shortsightedness, the corporation has informed Willard that he must offer the entire standard Dunkin' Donuts line, which includes non-kosher dishes such as a Sausage Egg Cheese Croissant and a Bacon Egg Cheese Croissant.

Willard's are not the only DD locations that are kosher, according to the Dunkin' Donuts spokespeople. They estimate about 40 locations across the country abide by the dietary laws. Dunkin' Donuts defends its dictate by pointing to market research suggesting a full menu would increase unit sales. Headquarters is not without compassion, though; they are permitting Willard to keep kosher his DD outlet inside the Rockville Jewish Community Center.

The local Jewish community is protesting this move, circulating petitions in hopes of keeping DD in the fold.

Fisher also noted that over 20% of the nation's Krispy Kreme (NYSE:KKD) locations are kosher.