Tim Horton's

Buying a sturdy plastic to-go tumbler is an appealing way to feel like you are doing something proactive in the battle against climate change and plastic waste — but there might be better ways to help.

The iconic Canadian coffee shop chain is seeking to refresh its brand with the launch of its flagship store on King Street in Toronto's downtown core. National Observer was invited check it out. Text by Alastair Sharp. Photos by Cole Burston

The planned increases have generated significant public debate, including the predictable circulation of exaggerated claims about the supposed harmful effects of minimum wage increases and stereotypes of who will benefit. I’d like to use recent economic research on minimum wage hikes to debunk five of the most common claims, using examples from several Canadian provinces.

Protests, labour unrest and a public feud between Tim Hortons and the premier of Ontario have erupted in the wake of the province’s recent minimum wage hike, raising questions about the wisdom of raising the standard by 30 per cent in just two years.

A social media movement encouraged people to join "No Timmies Tuesday" on Jan. 9 and instead visit independent coffee shops.

Restaurant Brands International has previously announced similar agreements in the Philippines and United Kingdom.