In celebration of Black Friday, Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop made the holidays a little easier for a few shoppers this year by taking care of their gift budgets.

On Thursday evening, across the company's target markets, Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop restaurant owners surprised the 25th person waiting in line for Black Friday deals with $725 in VISA gift cards.

According to an annual Gallup poll, the average American will spend approximately $725 on holiday gifts this year, which is why Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop chose the denomination.

The 24thand 26th person in line each received a $100 Tim Card and everyone got a coupon for a free donut or hot chocolate in holiday flavors like Candy Cane and Gingerbread—redeemable at any Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop location.

"It's been a tough year for some people and this is just our way of saying 'Thank You,'" says Mike Meilleur, senior vice president of U.S. operations.

"We know that spending $1.50 on a coffee adds up, which is why we are grateful for those who come to Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop every day."

The special giveaway kicks-off Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop's "Holiday Helpers" program. The "Holiday Helpers" will be making surprise appearances throughout the holiday season at area sporting events to give away additional VISA gift cards, Tim Cards or free product coupons to extend the celebration.

Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop handed out approximately 24 gift cards on Thanksgiving Day evening. With more gift card surprises throughout the month of December, the company will have given away $25,000 in VISA gift cards for people to have an even more magical holiday season.

Operating in the quick service segment of the restaurant industry, Tim Hortons appeals to a broad range of consumer tastes, with a menu that includes premium coffee, espresso-based specialty coffees including lattes, cappuccinos and espresso shots, specialty teas, home-style soups, fresh sandwiches, wraps, hot breakfast sandwiches and fresh baked goods, including our trademark donuts. As of October 2, 2011, Tim Hortons had 645 restaurants in the United States and 3,871 restaurants systemwide.

Marketing & Promotions, News, Tim Hortons