Tim Hortons

A Tim Hortons franchise in the UK is available only to multi-unit operators, and the brand’s British expansion runs through a master franchise rather than direct recruitment.

Tim Hortons was founded in 1964 in Hamilton, Ontario, by the professional ice hockey player of the same name, who wanted to create a space where everyone would feel at home. It became the largest quick service restaurant chain in Canada and now trades from more than 4,700 restaurants worldwide. Its owner is Restaurant Brands International, which also holds Burger King and Popeyes.

Restaurant Brands International announced a deal in 2016 to bring the brand to England, Scotland and Wales, and SK Group acquired the master franchise rights in 2017. SK Group had already played a significant role in the UK expansion of Domino’s Pizza. The first British store opened on Argyle Street in Glasgow in 2017, and the estate had reached 21 stores by the end of 2018. The first London site followed in July 2022, timed to open on Canada Day.

The UK business had grown to 69 stores by March 2026, of which 58 are drive-thrus, and its master franchise agreement with Restaurant Brands International has been extended to 2045. UK revenue rose 8.9% to £105 million in 2025.

The menu runs all day, from muffins and brioche at breakfast through paninis and wraps at lunch to crispy chicken sandwiches later, alongside freshly brewed coffee, doughnuts and the brand’s signature bite-sized Timbits.

Why Choose the Franchise Tim Hortons?

Tim Hortons UK is looking for prospective owners with the infrastructure, experience and support to operate a multi-unit retail franchise operation. This is not a single-store opportunity. Experience in multi-site food and beverage is described as beneficial rather than critical, and having run one’s own business is regarded as an advantage.

Franchise partners receive training, ongoing support across marketing, supply chain management and business operations, and assistance with site selection based on footfall, community engagement potential and local market dynamics. The application process runs through Tim Hortons directly and requires a detailed business plan, followed by an assessment of the applicant’s compatibility with the brand’s values and operational standards.

Tim Hortons UK publishes no total investment figure, franchise fee or capital requirement. Its first UK franchise partner was signed at the end of 2018 to open a number of stores in Scotland, and the brand has continued to add partners since.