Tim Hortons planning major UK expansion under franchise

Canadian coffee and doughnuts chain Tim Hortons is planning a major expansion drive in the UK under a new franchise model.

The group, which has 4,700 global stores, has grown to 75 UK locations since opening in Glasgow in 2017.

It is one of the fastest growing brands in the UK, having opened 31 sites in 2022 alone, and is now targeting further growth in towns and cities nationwide.

The launch of the new franchise model follows a five-year test and learn phase and will give partners the opportunity to open drive through and high street restaurants nationwide.

Kevin Hydes, chief commercial officer at Tim Hortons, said the reception of the brand in the UK had been “nothing short of extraordinary”.

The opening of its first London site, at Park Royal, in 2022 was one of its most successful global launches in the last five years, Tim Hortons said.

“We are looking for expert operators from across the UK. with a proven record of delivering brand standards, delighting customers, and driving commercial growth," said Hydes.

Tim Hortons was founded in Canada in 1964 and works with over 1,500 franchisees in locations including Canada, China, India, the UAE, and Mexico.

It is owned by fast food giant Restaurant Brands International, which is behind Burger King and the Popeyes fried chicken chain, which is also expanding in the UK.