Tims to roll out all-day breakfast nationally

Citing strong consumer demand, coffee-and-doughnut chain Tim Hortons Inc. says it is rolling out all-day breakfast across Canada starting Wednesday.

The company, which is relocating its head office to Toronto from Oakville, is expanding a pilot program from about a dozen southern Ontario locations started in May, with menu items typically available at the store in the morning to be sold any time at its locations nationwide.

“The demand is loud and clear,” Tim Hortons president Alex Macedo told the Canadian Press earlier this year. “Any time we bring up the idea of breakfast at any time, the response is very favourable and very strong.”

He also said Tims was looking to introduce a kids menu, new packaging, kiosks, loyalty programs and a delivery service.

Research companies say breakfast traffic and consumer spending at breakfast have increased over the last five years while rivals including McDonald’s, Starbucks and Country Style have improved their breakfast menus to better compete with Tim Hortons.

The announcement comes as Tims, controlled by fast-food holding company Restaurant Brands International, is working to improve its relationship with some franchisees who have complained about cost-cutting measures, delays in supply deliveries and a renovation plan.

Macedo said reports of disagreements have pressured same-store sales, but said he expects all-day breakfast will help lure new customers.