For all the COMM101 students who argued that Tim Hortons should expand into the United Arab Emirates, we might’ve been right!

In response to https://blogs.ubc.ca/comm101lightbulb/2011/10/05/tim-hortons-global-aspirations/ by Conichen:

According to the Globe and Mail  (Thursday, October 6, 2011) Tim Hortons is “eyeing” to expand 120 new stores across the Persian Gulf. The Canadian coffee and doughnut chain has confirmed (via its partner Apparel Group) that it plans to expand into the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman in the next 5 years. Although Tim Hortons maintains kiosks and self-serve locations outside North America, Dubai is said to be the “first true export” which will be followed my many.

However, Tim Hortons is is no rush to expand internationally. “We’re promising very little at this point,” states CEO Paul House.

‘Lightblub!’ As we have already considered the risks and benefits possible in the decision to enter Dubai in class, I’d like to ask: why the Persian Gulf? I think it’s the convenient, cheap, and refreshingly new products of the Canadian franchise that strongly appeals to the tea-drinking, fast paced, and ever-changing environment of the Persian Gulf. Don’t forget, Tim Hortons competitiors (such as Dunkin’ Donuts, Starbucks, and K.K.Doughnuts) still exist and will continue to fight for the coffee/doughnut market shares.