Some U.S. Tim Hortons abruptly close

Six locations in Maine, 15 in New York reportedly shut down without notice

Tim Hortons has closed down multiple locations across New York and Maine, only a few weeks after reporting a profit of $49.6 million (U.S.).

The coffee chain would not confirm if any Canadian outlets had been closed or how many U.S. stores shut.

Reports from the Portland Press Herald and LocalSYR indicated six locations had shut in Maine and 15 across central New York.

Speaking to a Time Warner Cable News affiliate in New York, Pamela Levison, one of the store managers, said: “Went home and received a phone call. That it was it. There is no work tomorrow. So I had to go on and call all of my employees and tell them, ‘Don’t show up to work tomor-

“I had to go on and call all of my employees and tell them, ‘Don’t show up to work tomorrow.’ ” PAMELA LEVISON STORE MANAGER

row,’ that this is it.”

Tim Hortons released a statement confirming an unspecified number of U.S. store closures.

“As we build the foundation for accelerated growth in the U.S., we have decided to close some restaurants in New York and Maine.

“We are supporting our restaurant owners in their transition and remain excited about the opportunities to expand the iconic Tim Hortons brand in the U.S,” Sarah Robertson, Tim Hortons vice-president of communications, wrote in an email.

Tim Hortons has about 838 locations in the U.S. The chain recently announced plans for a further 150 locations in the Cincinnati area over the next decade.

In July this year, Tim Hortons offered buyouts to 15 per cent of its workforce across Canadian regional branches and offices. With files from Lisa Wright

Tim Hortons says closing stores in Maine and New York state is part of its strategy for U.S. growth.