Maine Tim Hortons testing six new sandwiches
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
A Canadian-based shop, best known for its coffee and pastries, will test market six new sandwiches at its Maine branches in the coming weeks.
“Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop, North America’s fifth largest restaurant chain, is exclusively testing six new panini sandwiches in all 29 Maine area restaurants, evaluating the new menu item for a nationwide launch,” said Brynn Burton, manager, U.S. public relations for the chain.
A strong customer base led to the decision to do the Maine launch.
“Maine was chosen as one of the few test markets because of strong customer loyalty and how successfully the company has grown throughout the state,” said Burton, noting Tim Hortons was established in Maine in 1999.
The new panini sandwiches are made to order on white or whole wheat bread.
“They will be offered in-store and at the drive-thru, averaging around $3 to $4 less than other popular lunch destinations like Panera Bread (a St. Louis-based bakery/cafe with shops in over 40 states),” said Burton.
Panini varieties to be offered include: Grilled Cheese Duo, Tuscan Chicken, Pesto Chicken, Chipotle Turkey, Smoked Ham and Cheese, and Bacon, Tomato and Cheese.
The restaurant continues to expand, offering eating options beyond breakfast fare.
“Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop is more than just a coffee and donut shop, the chain is continuously expanding its menu offerings, featuring an egg white breakfast sandwich, oatmeal, classic sandwiches on freshly baked bread, varieties of soup or macaroni and cheese. The panini sandwiches are in addition to other recent lunch introductions, including macaroni and cheese and hot chicken wrap sandwiches,” Burton said.
Tim Hortons locations in Aroostook County include: two shops in Presque Isle, one on Main Street and the other at the Aroostook Centre Mall; a branch in Houlton on Route 1; a shop in Caribou on Bennett Drive; and the newest one is in Madawaska on Route 1 — all are co-owned by Troy Chamberlain and Scott Bragdon.
