Tim Hortons opens kiosk in Rankin Inlet

Canada's most famous coffee chain expanded its reach in Nunavut Monday with the opening of a kiosk in Rankin Inlet.

Tim Hortons new coffee kiosk in Rankin Inlets Northern Store joinsits current kiosks in Iqaluit.

"Tim Hortons corporately many years ago decided that they would become part of Northern communities," said Tim Martin, the company'sdirector of new business development, who attended the opening.

"By partnering with Northern Stores we're able to accomplish that."

Christine Reimer with the Northwest Company, which runs Northern Stores and NorthMarts,said it's another added service for people in Rankin Inlet.

Cathy Towtongie, president of Nunavut Tunngavik, was at the opening ceremony.

"When we go to Winnipeg, we often bring back doughnuts from there so I'm happy that we will be able to buy some here in Rankin Inlet," she said.

About 100 people came to the event and received a free coffee served in a reusable mug.

Tara Tootoo Fotheringham, owner of the Sugar Rush Cafe in Rankin Inlet, said its good that people have choices in the community but that it is unfortunate the popular national brand has come North without offering healthy foods.

"You have places that are coming in to offer something new but it's not necessarily something healthy and new," she said.

Tootoo Fotheringham said her cafe has put in different equipment and changed its menu to offer healthier, full meals.