WINSTON-SALEM – Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, a chain that is famous for its “Hot Light,” may move part of its operations out of its hometown to Charlotte.

The company was founded in Winston-Salem in 1937. It's grown to an international favorite with outlets in 31 countries. And was bought in 2016 by German conglomerate JAB Holdings.

The Stratford Road location is one of the older Krispy Kreme locations in Winston-Salem, but there might be a change to that.

Tuesday saw steady traffic of doughnut lovers.

“I like the chocolate covered cremes” said one customer, while another pointed out the doughnuts are,” light, not heavy and dense.”

Even the mayor says this business plays a big part in the community.

"Winston-Salem is synonymous with Krispy Kreme and Krispy Kreme is synonymous with Winston-Salem, and we’re proud of the company," said Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines.

But, there's something in the recipe that may not sit well with some.

Joines says the company's CEO told him some operations may be moving. 

“They planned on establishing a presence in Charlotte with some activities there, and that some folks would be moving to Charlotte from here," said Joines.

There’s no word on numbers of positions or functions that would be moved.

But like the original glazed, some things aren't expected to change.

“He assured that the company headquarters would always remain here," said Joines.

Spectrum News contacted Krispy Kreme. The manager of corporate communications said, quote, "We have no comment at this time."

The Twin City's lost other homegrown companies in the past, which is certainly why reports like these strike a nerve.

"Certainly we've lost some wonderful names in our community, Wachovia being one,” said Joines.

Piedmont airlines being another.

"As we're trying to recruit new companies here to Winston-Salem, we certainly tout the fact that we have corporate headquarters here, such as Hanes Brands, BB&T, Krispy Kreme,” said Joines.

Having those headquarters can boost development.