Disposable paper cups are frequently used to fill customer-provided reusable mugs at Tim Hortons locations across Quebec, according to an investigation published by Les As de l’info.
The practice undermines a discount program launched in 2022 to cut down on waste by encouraging patrons to bring their own containers. Les As de l’info reported that undercover journalists ordered approximately 50 coffees at various franchise locations in the province to test whether the chain’s green pledge is upheld in daily operations.
Workers poured hot coffee into disposable paper containers before transferring the liquid into the reporters’ personal travel mugs in more than half of the test purchases. Investigators observed staff members throwing the paper cups straight into the garbage after completing the transfer.
The fast-food chain states on its corporate website that the incentive program helps eliminate refuse one container at a time. “Merci de nous aider à réduire notre quantité de déchets produits, un gobelet à la fois!” the company says on its official platform.
Undercover Coffee Orders Across Quebec
Reporters visited roughly 50 restaurant locations operating under the brand without revealing their professional identity. They placed standard over-the-counter orders by asking staff for a refill inside a personal container.
Employees in over 50 percent of those visits reached for a standard paper cup first. They filled that single-use vessel with coffee before pouring it into the customer’s travel mug.
Some staff members immediately tossed the intermediate paper cup into the trash bin.
Coffee Chain Offers Discount to Reduce Single-Use Packaging
The coffee chain introduced a 10-cent discount for patrons who bring their own drinkware in 2022. The incentive aims to draw participation away from single-use packaging.
The investigation highlights a gap between corporate marketing promises and actual counter service.
Franchise operators have not yet released a public statement addressing the findings published by Les As de l’info.
