ISLAMABAD (The Thursday Times) — Tim Hortons, the Canadian coffee powerhouse, has reached a new pinnacle in its global operations. The inauguration of its Islamabad outlet has eclipsed the company’s previous world record for the highest opening day sales, a title formerly held by its Lahore branch.
The recently launched outlet in Islamabad’s DHA Phase-II Central Park became the center of attraction, drawing an unprecedented number of patrons. The scene was a vivid tableau of anticipation and excitement, with families and young couples forming lengthy queues, eager to indulge in the coffee and baked goods that Tim Hortons has become famed for. This overwhelming response not only signifies a new record for the company but also underscores the burgeoning popularity of international coffee chains in Pakistan’s evolving culinary scene. Tim Hortons made its debut in Pakistan through a partnership with the Turkish franchise partner Blue Foods Ltd.
Previously, the brand’s Lahore outlet had set a formidable benchmark for success. On its inaugural day earlier this year, it achieved the highest single-day sales of any Tim Hortons outlet across the globe, a testament to the brand’s magnetic pull in the Pakistani market. The Lahore store, distinguished by its spacious seating arrangement and the novelty of being Pakistan’s first drive-thru coffee shop, witnessed a flood of thousands of customers, a clear indicator of the brand’s resonance with the local populace.
Amidst the celebratory opening, the event also brought to light the stark contrasts within the country — the visible divide between those lining up for premium coffee experiences and those grappling with basic necessities.
As of September 2023, Tim Hortons, a renowned Canadian coffeehouse and restaurant chain, operates a total of 5,701 restaurants in 13 countries around the world. Canada is home to the largest number of Tim Hortons locations, with over 4,000 stores. In Canada, Tim Hortons is not just a coffee shop; it’s an integral part of Canadian culture. It is estimated that about 8 out of 10 cups of coffee sold in Canada are from Tim Hortons.
In addition to its strong presence in North America, Tim Hortons has expanded its reach to several other countries. In the Middle East, it has a significant presence with 124 locations in Saudi Arabia and 90 in the United Arab Emirates. The brand is also growing in Asia, with 50 locations in China and 20 in the Philippines. In Europe, Tim Hortons has established its presence with 50 locations in the United Kingdom and 6 in Spain.
Other countries with Tim Hortons locations include Qatar (23 stores), Mexico (20), Thailand (10), Oman (6), Kuwait (2), Bahrain (4), India (3), and Pakistan (4).
