Tim’s turns 50

For many of you, a stop by Tim Horton’s is a daily tradition. This week, the iconic Canadian chain is celebrating 50 years of being in business. And to kick things off, Tim Horton’s held an event in Toronto Thursday — giving away free coffee and donuts.

It was here at Ottawa Street North at Dunsmure in Hamilton where Tim Horton’s first began selling coffee and donuts to explode into a franchise that’s now known all over the world.

At one time there was just one Tim Horton’s in Hamilton — one that attracted regulars like Charlie Salvo and Harald Croft.

Charlie: “They make good coffee, keeps me coming back. I’m addicted to it I guess.”

Harald: “Well, the quality of the food for one thing. The service is always good.”

The popular coffee shop has seen some changes in the fifty years it’s been open. From the price of donuts to uniforms, pastry boxes, coffee cups and the style of seating. Tim Horton’s displayed how things used to look at today’s celebration in Toronto. They gave away free coffee and donuts to thank customers for it’s success.

Glenn Hollice is Tim’s marketing VP: “I think guests, fans of the brand where we started in Hamilton those roots that grounding from the community it really grew outward.”

This is the first store that opened it’s doors on Ottawa Street in Hamilton in 1964. Since then, the franchise has grown to 4,485 stores worldwide.

It all began with NHL player Tim Horton and his partner, former policeman Ron Joyce. The pair opened the first store here but Horton died in 1974 and Joyce has since sold his share of the company.

Terri Shipper’s fist job was at Tim’s: “They were very generous employers and they were very accommodating.”

Some customers say it’s a brand their addicted to, so much they’ll even wear Tim Horton’s paraphenelia.

Phil Smith: ” It’s a great jacket to have while I’m coming to Tim’s today. It’s their birthday, why not wear their old 1973 jacket.”

Recently Tim’s held an online poll to find out what customers would like brought back. The chocolate elcair won and will return later this year.

Diane Wrobel: “Apple fritter and blueberry fritter. They’re my favourite.”

To celebrate it’s birthday, all Tim Horton’s stores across the country will be giving out a free birthday donut on Saturday.