Look out, Dunkin’ Donuts. A New Hampshire-based franchise expects to open three Krispy Kreme doughnut shops in Maine.

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Inc. announced Monday it has signed a development agreement with NH Glazed LLC, to open four shops in New Hampshire and three in Maine over the next several years.

“The demand for Krispy Kreme doughnuts and coffee continues to grow throughout New England, so we are very happy to bring this iconic brand to New Hampshire and Maine,” said Patricia Perry, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts’ vice president, global franchise development, in a release. “Our partner, Cort Mendez, owner of NH Glazed LLC, is experienced in the restaurant industry and is committed to delivering the high-quality Krispy Kreme Doughnuts experience to our customers in those states.”

Mendez previously owned 10 Five Guys franchises in New Hampshire. He said the Krispy Kreme Doughnuts fan base in both Maine and New Hampshire is already very strong, making this the ideal time to open the shops.

An email to the corporate communications coordinator seeking additional details was not immediately answered Monday morning.

According to the company’s website, the nearest Krispy Kreme Doughnut shops to Maine are in Quebec City and Connecticut.

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts is in the process of expanding its development efforts throughout the United States, with particular focus on the Northeast, Northwest and certain areas of the Midwest, according to the release. There are currently almost 300 shops located in 41 states nationwide.

The company trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker KKD.

Send questions/comments to the editors.