Imagine the chilly winds of an early Canadian morning, the streets bustling and Tim Hortons, a beacon of national pride, offering its latest treat—but this time, it’s not a doughnut or a cup of their famed coffee. Instead, Tim Hortons has dropped a remarkable surprise for hockey enthusiasts and collectors alike—the “Greatest Duos” hockey card promotion, a thrilling venture that went beyond their traditional menu offerings and straight into the heart of Canadian culture.
In collaboration with Upper Deck, a leader known for its impactful sports memorabilia, Tim Hortons unveiled this unprecedented collectibles series that focuses on memorable pairings of hockey players. The highlight? The rookie cards of Connor Bedard, a rising star in the hockey world, which almost immediately led to a sensational day-one sellout at various locations throughout Canada. The buzz was palpable, with fans and collectors eager to get their hands on these exclusive cards, reinforcing Tim Hortons’ status not only as a coffee shop but as a cultural hub.
This series is ingeniously designed to provide more than just the regular thrill of collecting cards. It taps into a deeper narrative of hockey history, showcasing duos who have left an indelible mark on the sport. For instance, the “Linked by Numbers” cards creatively pair players who share a uniform number, while “Bounded by Honour” cards honor those connected by prestigious NHL awards. These thoughtful narratives encapsulated in card form celebrate not only athletic prowess but also the bonds formed on the ice.
Further elevating the collectible’s appeal, Tim Hortons has included autographed cards by hockey heavyweights like Sidney Crosby and Nate MacKinnon, as well as sibling sensations Matthew and Brady Tkachuk. These rare finds are treasures for any collector, adding an element of chase and surprise that has only fueled the promotion’s overwhelming popularity.
Moreover, this card collection comes at an affordable price point—$1.50 with the purchase of a beverage or $1.99 on its own—making it an accessible hobby for individuals and families alike. For the devoted collectors, a specially designed $19.99 binder is available, perfect for showcasing their valuable new acquisitions while keeping them in mint condition.
The engagement does not stop with the cards. As part of the promotion, Tim Hortons has introduced the “Collect to Win Golden Prize” offering prizes like a new Hyundai vehicle, an exclusive meet-and-greet with NHL star Nick Suzuki, and much-coveted gift cards. These incentives not only encourage continued participation but also enrich the community feeling, as fans share their wins and collections online and in person, creating a shared narrative of excitement and anticipation.
Tim Hortons’ strategic rollout of the “Greatest Duos” cards has also coincided with the fervor of the NHL Hockey Challenge and the anticipation of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, intertwining the thrill of card collecting with the excitement of live sports. They’ve smartly bridged their promotional initiatives, offering additional rewards like trips to the 2025 Stanley Cup Final and even free coffee for a year, deepening their engagement with the community.
This innovative campaign by Tim Hortons doesn’t just highlight their knack for business savvy—it underscores their dedication to nurturing and celebrating the rich hockey heritage of Canada. By intertwining collectible fun with the national sport, Tim Hortons is creating not just a promotion but an event, weaving itself into the fabric of everyday Canadian life and leisure, sparking joy and nostalgia in the hearts of many. Amidst steaming cups of coffee and freshly glazed treats, the “Greatest Duos” promotion stands out as a testament to Canada’s undying love for hockey, fostering community spirit and shared passion across the nation, and setting new benchmarks for collectible campaigns in the process.
