“The last thing I want to do is step on long-term stores’ toes,” he said. “The business is not about that.”

Kelley said he thinks the market will eventually become oversaturated with doughnut shops. The key to survival, he said, is delivering a unique product and building a loyal, talented staff.

“I have a fantastic staff who love what we do and are always learning,” he said. “They all have input in the business and all want to be here long term and keep things moving forward.”

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Steve Nassareddine came to the U.S. in the mid-1970s from Lebanon and learned the doughnut trade while working for Dunkin’ Donuts. He and his wife, Wafaa, were later part-owners of Golden Donuts on West Main Street near Virginia Commonwealth University.

The Nassareddines bought Country Style Donuts at 4300 Williamsburg Road in eastern Henrico in 1984, and they made only a few changes, including the addition of three booths to accommodate families. The store is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week but Monday.

The business is now run by the Nassareddines and their sons, along with other family members.