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Tim Hortons to open first European store in the UK

Tim Hortons to expand into China
Tim Hortons

Iconic Canadian coffee chain Tim Hortons has announced plans to expand into the UK for its first foray into the European market.

For Canada's British cousins, that means getting acquainted with the quintessentially Canadian coffee drink the “Double Double,” a brew that's given a generous splash of cream and heaping spoonful of sugar for a sweet, creamy concoction that's more dessert drink, less coffee.

It's the latest expansion move for the chain and part of a larger plan to establish the brand around the world.

The coffee and donut chain now counts 4,464 restaurants in Canada, the US and the Middle East.

Last month, the chain also announced plans to develop the brand in the Philippines.

Its entry into England, Scotland and Wales is, perhaps, long overdue given its Commonwealth ties to Canada and the substantial Canadian expat population.

The Canadian version of Dunkin' Donuts, Tim Hortons is a ubiquitous presence throughout the country and is upheld as a Canadian institution with its Double Double coffee, Canadian Maple donuts, and Timbits (donut holes).

The chain was founded in 1964 by hockey player Tim Horton.

In 2014, the chain merged with Burger King to become Restaurant Brands International, the world's third largest quick service restaurant company.

Despite the Canadian connection, Tim Hortons will face off against an already strong coffee shop culture in the UK, with existing brands such as Costa Coffee, Caffe Nero, Starbucks and Pret A Manger.