Owners, supporters, developers, and local dignitaries cut the ribbon to officially mark the opening of the Altona Tim Hortons on Saturday.
“This is a very exciting event to be celebrating today,” said Altona economic development officer Stephanie Harris. “Tim Hortons and Canada have a very symbolic relationship. The relationship chain has become the largest most recognized coffee franchise in the country.
“Last week I was in Brandon for the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce AGM and I can’t tell you how many times I was tapped on the shoulder and congratulated for our community receiving a Tim Hortons. On behalf of SEED and the chamber, I’d like to thank Steel Creek Developers, the group of local investors, and franchise owner Rupesh [Patel] for investing in our community. Wish you much success.”
Patel said business has been brisk since their soft opening earlier this spring.
“The first few weeks were just great. Even better than we expected. It feels so good to see this day finally arrive and the ribbon cut. Me and my whole family are very excited.”
Patel also operates Tim Hortons franchises in Swan River, Thompson, and Morris and says that has given him some good experience and knowledge in running the Altona location.
“It’s a similar demographic, which has its own advantages and some challenges.”
He said it’s great to walk into the store and see all the tables full, the till lined up with customers, and know that the staff is busy.
“It’s a feeling I can’t describe. That’s what we work for everyday, and we’ve been waiting to see that for a year and a half.”
So far, about two dozen people have been hired to work in the restaurant, and Patel hopes to hire another eight to ten, aiming to fill some of those roles once the school year is over.
Meanwhile, Monday’s grand opening also served as a kick-off to the Altona Tim Hortons first Smile Cookie Week.
The Smile Cookie beneficiary this year will be the Altona and Area Family Resource Centre (AAFRC). Cookies are on sale through Sunday.
