Tim Hortons has made a commitment to hire approximately 10,000 local workers, reducing its dependence on the temporary foreign worker program. The popular coffee chain has already conducted 400 hiring events in March and April, with plans to continue hiring local team members throughout the year.
This shift marks a change for Tim Hortons, which previously relied on the temporary foreign worker program to address labor shortages following the 2021 COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this, the company emphasizes its ongoing dedication to hiring employees from the communities where its restaurants are situated.
According to Tim Hortons, only 3.6% of its workforce in restaurant roles are employed through the temporary foreign worker program, amounting to approximately 4,000 employees. These individuals are hired in communities facing documented labor shortages.
In response to the shortage of staff, the federal government increased the proportion of temporary foreign workers businesses could employ from 10% to 20%, with certain sectors, including food service, allowed up to 30%. The proportion was later reduced back to 10% in 2024. Tim Hortons lobbied to maintain the program, citing its importance in addressing labor shortages.
Recent records indicate that the need for lobbying has decreased due to the rise in youth unemployment. Statistics Canada reported a youth unemployment rate of 14.3% in April, compared to the overall rate of 6.9%.
In addition to its hiring initiatives, Tim Hortons announced plans to open 80 new restaurants and renovate 400 cafes across Canada by the end of the year. The expansion includes 26 new locations in Ontario, 17 in Alberta, and 14 in Quebec.
These developments coincide with the return of Dunkin’, an American coffee and donut chain, to the Canadian market. Montreal-based Foodtastic has secured a deal to reintroduce Dunkin’ to Canada, with the first store expected to open within the next six months.
While the competition heats up with Dunkin’s return, Tim Hortons remains focused on its long-term investment in Canadian communities. The company’s commitment to local hiring and community engagement is seen as a key strategy in facing competition from other chains like Dunkin’.
Business consultant David Pullara notes that Tim Hortons’ emphasis on Canadian values and community investment could help distinguish it from competitors like Dunkin’. Despite the return of Dunkin’, Tim Hortons aims to leverage its strong presence in Canadian communities to maintain its market share.