News

Tim Hortons on a roll in 2010

February 22, 2011

Tim Hortons Inc. reported fourth quarter 2010 and year-end results ended Jan. 2, which included robust same-store growth sales in both the U.S. and Canada.

Fourth quarter same-store sales for the U.S. were up 6.3 percent from 4Q09 and 3.9 percent for 2010. For Canada, 4Q10 was up 3.9 percent and, for the year, up 4.9 percent.

These earnings results were attributed mostly to a gain on sale of Tim Hortons’ 50 percent joint-venture interest in Maidstone Bakeries.

In addition to these highlights, the company also announced a new share repurchase program of up to $445 million, and a 31 percent increase in quarterly dividend to 17 cents per common share.

"Our fourth quarter results include a number of significant items but our underlying business enjoyed strong same-store sales performance, and we met or exceeded our key goals for the full-year,” said Don Schroeder, president and CEO of Tim Hortons Inc. “Our business performance provides the foundation for our investments in future growth that we believe will continue to result in long-term shareholder value."

As of Jan. 2, more than 99 percent of Tim Hortons restaurants in both the U.S. and Canada were franchised. 

In 2011, Tim Hortons will focus on continued growth in Canada, accelerated, targeted investments in core U.S. markets and a dive into longer-term international growth. The company has already inked a deal to expand in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman.

Roll Up the Rim to Win turns 25

Tim Hortons’ Roll Up the Rim to Win contest is marking its 25th year with more than 47 million prizes and better odds of winning – one in six – than ever before.

Created in 1986 as a "thank you" to Tim Hortons guests at 246 restaurants in Canada, the Roll Up the Rim to Win contest has grown into an annual event at more than 3,500 restaurants in Canada, the United States and Afghanistan.

The biggest prize in 1986 was a snack pack of Timbits. Since then, Tim Hortons has given away nearly 500 cars and hundreds of millions of coffees and donuts.

For 2011, guests who purchase a medium, large or extra large hot beverage have a chance to instantly win a grand prize of one of 40 2011 Toyota Matrix XRS. Lucky rim rollers also have a chance at 100 Panasonic 3D TV Packages, 1,000 Napoleon Gourmet Grills, 5,000 Raleigh Mountain Bikes, 25,000 $100 Tim Cards and more than 47 million free hot beverage, donut, muffin and cookie prizes.

"We've rewarded our loyal customers with more than 387 million prizes over the past 25 years," said Bill Moir, chief brand and marketing officer of Tim Hortons. "Roll Up the Rim to Win is not only an important part of Tim Hortons' history, it has become an annual rite of spring. We're excited to provide 16 million more prizes this year and improve the odds of winning to one in six."

In support of military personnel serving in Afghanistan, Roll Up the Rim is also continuing in Kandahar, with chances to win one of five cash prizes of $2,500, 250 Roots leather backpacks, 2,500 special edition hats and 14,000 food and drink prizes.

This year, Tim Hortons is also challenging Roll Up fans to pronounce its signature "Rrroll up the Rrrim" moniker and take the Longest RRRolling R Challenge by visiting Facebook.com/TimHortons to record their own rrrolling r's.

The contest runs while cup supplies last. Prizes may be claimed until May 22. Contest rules, regulations, prizing information and winner counts can be found at participating Tim Hortons locations or at RollUpTheRimToWin.com.

Also, through March 20, guests can enter online every day for a chance to win one of 25 Tim Cards each worth $25 or one grand prize of free coffee for a year. Guests can also download a RRRoll Up Ringtone for free.