News

Tim Hortons plants flag in Middle East

October 5, 2011

Less than a month after opening a unit in Dubai, its first outside of North America, Tim Hortons has put plans into place for a much larger footprint in the Gulf region.

According to Trade Arabia, the Canadian-based QSR expects to launch 120 outlets in the region within the next five years.

The expansion will be spearheaded by master franchisee Apparel Group, a fashion and lifestyle brand based in Dubai. Apparel's current portfolio entails more than 50 brands and 620 stores.

Five Tim Hortons Café and Bake shops are slated to be open by the end of 2011.

Nilesh Ved, chairman and CEO of Apparel Group, said the brand will work well in the region, considering the growth in the number of Canadian expatriates and travelers who visit.

David Clanachan, COO, U.S. and International for Tim Hortons, added that the family-centric and social habits of the region complement the brand.

"The UAE's diverse population, its position as the region's leading business hub, and the ease of doing business also makes this the ideal launch market," he said.

Tim Hortons was founded in 1964.

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