Tim Hortons to debut in Malaysia this August

Canadian coffee giant Tim Hortons is set to make its debut in Malaysia this August, in partnership with Singapore-based Marubeni Growth Capital Asia. The initial launch will see the opening of two outlets in Kuala Lumpur, with an ambitious plan to expand to 100 locations across the Southeast Asian market by the end of 2025.

Marubeni Growth Capital Asia, a subsidiary of the Japanese conglomerate Marubeni Corporation, previously facilitated Tim Hortons’ entry into Singapore in November 2023. The expansion into Malaysia is part of a broader strategy that includes forthcoming openings in Indonesia.

Menu Highlights and Localized Offerings

Known globally for its quality coffee and delectable baked goods, Tim Hortons will bring its popular offerings to Malaysia, including coffee brewed from sustainably sourced Arabica beans, and a variety of baked goods such as its famous donuts. Additionally, the menu will feature Sourdough Melts and Pasta Bakes for heartier meals, and Signature Lattes and Iced Capp drinks in Maple and French Vanilla flavors to cater to the local palate.

Tim Hortons is also set to introduce several items specifically curated for the Malaysian market, although details of these new offerings remain under wraps. This move is aimed at providing a unique dining experience tailored to Malaysian tastes, ensuring the brand’s appeal to local consumers.

Rising Competition in Malaysia’s Coffee Scene

Tim Hortons’ entry into Malaysia comes amidst a surge of international coffee chains establishing a presence in the country over the past 18 months. Brands like Luckin Coffee from China, Ediya Coffee from South Korea, UK’s EL&N, Café Kitsuné, Indonesia’s Tanamera Coffee, and Morocco’s Bacha Coffee have all launched outlets, driven by the high consumer demand for out-of-home coffee experiences.

The Malaysian branded coffee shop market, currently comprising approximately 3,400 outlets, is led by domestic chains such as Tealive and ZUS Coffee, which operate 800 and 495 stores respectively. According to World Coffee Portal’s Project Café East Asia 2024 report, the market is projected to reach 6,100 outlets by the end of 2028.

Tim Hortons’ entry is poised to intensify competition, offering Malaysian coffee lovers more choices and contributing to the dynamic growth of the country’s coffee culture.