Fear of Franchisor Silences Tim Hortons US Franchisees

Tim Hortons' U.S. franchisee association, the Great White North Franchisee Association USA (GWNFA USA), has stated that they have no comment on the recent revisions to their lawsuit for fear of retaliation from their Canadian-based franchisor. And no wonder! American franchisees are well aware that multi-unit Canadian franchisees Mark Kuziora and David Hughes, who spoke up, swiftly lost their restaurants.

The association wouldn’t comment on the revised lawsuit, in a statement through its attorneys. “We have no comment due to a sincere fear of retaliation by Tim Hortons USA on us and our association’s members. The amended lawsuit speaks for itself.”

...The lawsuit accuses Tim Hortons’ owner, Canadian quick-service operator Restaurant Brands International (RBI), of a “pattern of conduct” designed to weaken the association’s standing. The association says that half of Tim Hortons’ U.S. franchisees are members. —Jonathan Maze, Restaurant Business

Photo of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota Tim Hortons by m01229