It was a day coffee drinkers in Tisdale were waiting for: the grand opening of the new Tim Hortons.
The franchise had a soft opening Dec. 1 but had the official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony Dec. 6.
Kelly Sigfusson, who owns the franchise along with his wife Shannon, said they came to Tisdale because they saw a chance to expand. They are the owners of the Melfort Tim Hortons.
“Lots of people have shown interest in wanting us to expand and Tim Hortons approached us about opening this store right here in Tisdale and we graciously accepted,” he said. “It’s a nice venue for the community and we’re really happy to be here.”
Both Sigfussons will be going back and forth between the two locations while their daughter Jenna Grant and son-in-law Cam Grant will manage the store.
“We think Tisdale has a lot to offer,” Sigfusson said. “It’s a thriving community and we’re proud to be part of it.”
While the Sigfussons own the franchise, the building is owned by the Canalta Group, which also built the Sobeys Liquor Store next door.
Sigfusson said they’re training around 30 employees and he could see the need for 40 to keep the coffee shop running 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“It’s a lot of work and a challenge, but a good one.”
Sigfusson said the town has been helpful in welcoming them into the community. Al Jellicoe, Tisdale's mayor, was on hand for the ribbon-cutting.
“It’s always a good day when a new business opens up. People are going to come to Tisdale for more than just everything else they have to offer, they can come have coffee and doughnuts,” he said. “This culminates a good month for Tisdale.”
As for the future, Sigfusson has some goals.
“Our goals are to have a thriving little business here and hopefully we can provide really good service to the people of Tisdale and the surrounding area,” he said.
The franchise owner later added he wished everyone a Merry Christmas and wanted to acknowledge the community for their support of the coffee shop so far.
