After reading Andrew Killas’ blog post regarding the Tim Hortons and Burger King merger, I understand his points but tend to respectfully disagree. It is true that one of Tim Hortons’ main values is the patriotic feeling Canadians get when ordering their favourite cup of coffee.
A cup of coffee from Tim Hortons and a burger from Burger King
Yet, I feel that Tim Hortons’ has been intertwined in Canadian culture for so long, it would be nearly impossible for the company to lose that identity. Also, the management of Burger King, and now Tim Hortons’, must realize one of the main allures of the donut shop is their distinctively Canadian feel. It would make much more sense for Burger King management to target this, and if expansion to America happens, make this one of the key points in marketing campaigns. Burger King purchased Tim Hortons mostly for tax evasion, therefore their intentions are not to change the company drastically. Once again, this demonstrates that is unlikely that the merger with have a negative effect on Tim Hortons. Canadian’s should feel excited for the possibility of sharing something of great national pride with America if the expansion does happen. It would allow Canada to have pride that American’s also recognize the constant excellence of Tim Hortons products.
Articles Used: https://blogs.ubc.ca/andrewkillas/2014/11/06/will-this-be-the-death-of-a-canadian-icon/
http://metronews.ca/food/952377/tim-hortons-vs-the-world-canadian-coffee-wars/