QUICK SUMMARY

Tim Hortons is Canada’s largest quick-service restaurant chain, with nearly 6,000 stores across 13 countries.

Founded in 1964 by NHL player Tim Horton and businessman Jim Charade, the first Tim Hortons (originally Tim Donut Limited) store opened in Hamilton, Ontario. The company is colloquially known as Tim’s, Timmie’s, or Timmy’s.

Known for its coffee, doughnuts, and connection to Canadian culture, Tim Hortons has expanded its menu to include sandwiches, soups, and specialty drinks.

Despite multiple ownership changes, including acquisitions by Wendy’s in 1995 and then 3G Capital in 2014, Tim Hortons has maintained its position as one of Canada’s most iconic restaurant brands. Its focus on quality products and community leadership has built a loyal customer base, making it a substantial franchise opportunity.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Tim Hortons is Canada’s largest quick-service restaurant chain, with nearly 6,000 stores across 13 countries.
  • Founded by NHL players Tim Horton and Jim Charade, the chain has had multiple ownership groups over the years, including Wendy’s and 3G Capital.
  • Known for coffee and doughnuts, Tim Hortons also offers sandwiches, soups, and specialty drinks, attracting a loyal customer base.
  • Tim Hortons offers single—and multi-unit franchise agreements, with an initial investment of $680,900 to $1,906,300.
  • Franchisees undergo a 7-week intensive training program at Tim Hortons University, covering operations, management, and food safety standards.

Join Our Franchise Buyers Beta Course for
Aspiring Franchise Owners

Is Tim Hortons A Franchise?

Yes, Tim Hortons is a franchise, providing lucrative business opportunities with over 55 years of brand recognition.

For entrepreneurs interested in opening a Tim Hortons franchise in the United States, the company provides menu adaptations catering to American preferences.

Tim Hortons offers both single and multi-unit franchise agreements. Existing Tim Hortons franchisees are also eligible to purchase additional restaurant locations to expand their operations.

As a well-known Canadian quick-service restaurant chain, Tim Hortons continues to grow, offering a strong franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs.

How Many Tim Hortons Are There?

As of September 2023, Tim Hortons operates 5,701 locations in 13 countries.

Tim Hortons operates both standard and non-standard store locations, the latter of which includes carts and kiosks.

Originally concentrated in Ontario and Atlantic Canada, the Tim Hortons experienced rapid expansion into Quebec and western Canada. Tim Hortons restaurants can also be found on military bases, including Maryland, Kentucky, Virginia, and Latvia.

The company’s five-year vision (2022-2027) includes plans for further expansion throughout the southeastern United States. The first Tim Hortons franchise in Korea is slated to open later this year (2024) in Seoul.

What Training Is Required To Open A Tim Hortons?

Franchisees with Tim Hortons experience an intensive 7-week program at Tim Hortons University, covering operations, management, and food safety standards.

Initial training to open a new Tim Hortons location includes 179 hours of on-the-job training and 15.5 hours of classroom instruction. Ongoing training includes online courses, regional meetings, and refresher courses.

Operations support for all Tim Hortons franchises is provided through Operations Business Consultants who offer advice, conduct quality assessments, and suggest improvements.

How Much Does It Cost To Open A Tim Hortons?

For entrepreneurs considering a Tim Hortons franchise, the initial investment ranges from $680,900 to $1,906,300, depending on the restaurant’s size and format.

Ongoing costs of franchise ownership include the following:

  • 4.5% – 6% royalty on gross sales
  • 4% advertising contribution
  • Variable maintenance costs

To be considered for franchise opportunities with Tim Hortons, individuals must have a net worth of at least $500,000 and liquid capital of at least $250,000.

The average full-format franchise cost reflects the brand’s strong customer loyalty. Location-specific factors also impact costs, and Tim Hortons provides a dedicated team to help franchisees meet company standards and community needs.

Here are 5 Low Cost Franchises that make
$1,000,000 (Backed by Data)

Most People Waste Countless Hours Of Time Stuck In Confusion, Scoping The Internet, Trying To Find Winning Franchises.

This Will Save You So Much Time.

We’ve Done The Heavy Lifting For You And Narrowed It Down To 5 Low-Cost Franchises That Make $1,000,000 So You Can Save Yourself So Much time.

What Is The Tim Hortons Franchise Fee?

The initial franchise fee for a Tim Hortons standard shop is $50,000, and $25,000 for a non-standard Shop.

Franchise owners should note that this fee is non-refundable and is generally payable upon signing the Franchise Agreement.

How Much Does A Tim Hortons Make A Year?

The initial franchise fee for a Tim Hortons standard shop is $50,000, and $25,000 for a non-standard Shop.

Franchise owners should note that this fee is non-refundable and is generally payable upon signing the Franchise Agreement.

Subscribe to the Franchise Empire Newsletter for the latest Franchise news & updates


Subscribe to the Franchise Empire Newsletter for the latest Franchise news & updates