Tim Hortons Mania To Sweep China

(RTTNews) - Canadian coffee chain Tim Hortons is moving to China and plans to open 1,500 locations.

Tim Hortons, owned by Restaurant Brands, said it plans to open more than 1,500 locations in China over the next decade through a partnership with private equity firm Cartesian Capital Group.

"We have already seen Canada's Chinese community embrace Tim Hortons and we now have the opportunity to bring the best of our Canadian brand to China with established partners who have expertise in the industry and the country," president Alex Macedo said in a statement.

The company plans to tap in the demand for western food from Chinese consumers. Tim Hortons' rivals Starbucks, McDonald's, KFC and Pizza Hut all have a big presence in China.

"China's population and vibrant economy represent an excellent growth opportunity for Tim Hortons in the coming years," said Macedo said.