10 Fascinating Facts About Tim Hortons You Didn’t Know
Tim Hortons is more than just a coffee shop! It’s a Canadian icon that holds a special place in the hearts of millions. While you may know it for its coffee and Timbits, there’s a lot more to this beloved brand that meets the eye. Here are 10 fascinating facts about Tim Hortons you might not know.
1. It All Started with a Hockey Player
Tim Hortons was founded in 1964 by NHL player, Tim Hortons and his business partner Ron Joyce. Horton wasn’t just a hockey ledgend, he was also a visionary entrepreneur. The first location in Hamilton, Ontario, sold coffee and donuts for just 10 cents each!
2. Timbits Were Introduced in 1976
Those bite-sized donuts we all were first introduced in April of 1976, more than a decade after Tim Hortons opened shop. The invention of Timbits wasn’t just a genius marketing strategy, it was a clever way to reduce waste by using leftover dough.
3. The Original Donut Was the Apple Fritter
Before Timbits and dozens of fancy flavours, the ‘Apple Fritter’ reigned supreme as the first and most popular donut. To this day, it remains a fan-favourite and a must-try for anyone new to Tim Hortons.
4. There’s a Tim Hortons Camp for Kids
The Tim Hortons Foundation Camps are designed to support disadvantaged youth across North America. Funded by annual Camp Day proceeds, these camps give children life-changing opportunities to build confidence and leadership skills. Every coffee you buy on Camp Day helps make a difference.
5. Tim Hortons Is in 13 Countries
While it’s synonymous with Canada, Tim Hortons has spread globally. It operates in 13 countries, including the U.S., the U.K., and even the Philippines. Some locations adapt their menu to local tastes, but the Double Double remains a universal favorite.
6. Canadians Drink 80% of Their Coffee
Tim Hortons dominates the Canadian coffee market, with 8 out of every 10 cups of coffee consumed in Canada coming from Tim Hortons. That level of loyalty is hard to match, making it not just a brand but a part of Canadian identity.
7. The Double Double Is Trademarked
Speaking of the Double Double—Tim Hortons owns the trademark for this iconic order, which refers to coffee with two creams and two sugars. It’s a staple of Canadian coffee culture and has even made its way into the dictionary.
8. The Menu Has Grown—A Lot!
When Tim Hortons first opened, the menu was simple: coffee, tea, and a handful of donuts. Today, the menu includes soups, sandwiches, bagels, wraps, and even iced cappuccinos. The evolution reflects the brand’s commitment to meeting customer needs while keeping its classics intact. Check out our menu page with prices and nutrition information.
9. Roll Up the Rim Has Been Around Since 1986
The popular Roll Up the Rim to Win contest launched in 1986 and has become a customer favorite every year. From free coffee and donuts to cars and cash prizes, it’s a marketing campaign that keeps people coming back. In recent years, it has transitioned to include a digital version.
10. Tim Horton’s Original Vision Lives On
Even though Tim Horton himself passed away in 1974 in a tragic car accident, his legacy lives on. The chain’s focus on quality, community, and innovation reflects the values he stood for. Every coffee served today is part of that ongoing story.
Parting Thoughts
Tim Hortons isn’t just a coffee shop; it’s a cultural phenomenon with deep roots in Canadian history. From its humble beginnings in Hamilton to its global presence today, the brand has stayed true to its mission of bringing people together over a good cup of coffee. So next time you grab your Double Double or a box of Timbits, remember—you’re part of a legacy that spans decades.
