Tim Hortons debuts drive-thru-only locations as its future

A person walks past a Tim Horton's cafe in Manhattan on August 25, 2014 in New York City.
NEW YORK, NY - AUGUST 25: A person walks past a Tim Horton's cafe in Manhattan on August 25, 2014 in New York City. Photo credit Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Tim Hortons may not be as popular in the United States compared to its rivals, Starbucks and Dunkin', but the Canadian fast food chain will soon be opening up "new next generation restaurant designs for the U.S" that could draw in customers.

Tim Hortons announced on Monday that it will debut two new restaurant models, including a 900-square-foot drive-thru-only location. The first of its kind will open up in Cross Lanes, West Virginia later this summer, according to Nation's Restaurant News.

Customers will now have the luxury of never having to get out of their vehicle to get a coffee or some Timbits.

The other new restaurant model will be a 1,600-square-foot store with a 24-seat dining room, as the company aims at improving their guest experience.

"Modern and timeless, the new restaurants are designed for an even more convenient guest experience with a drive-thru only model that maximizes drive thru efficiency and speed of service so you can get your morning brew without any hassle," Tim Hortons said in a news release, according to The Associated Press.

"The 1600 sq. ft. restaurant exterior and interior design is unique and attention grabbing, and true to the brand as being cozy and inviting to all guests. The new designs also work seamlessly with the Tim Hortons app which allows guests to order ahead of time for pick-up, collect reward points for free items, and access to exclusive weekly offers."

Jay Pritchett, Head of Marketing, of Tim Hortons U.S., said in the news release that the company hopes their new designed restaurants will give customers a "great experience."

"Our guests are looking for great service and high-quality coffee and food, all adding up to a great experience when visiting Tim Hortons® restaurants. Our new restaurant designs offer all of that and more," Pritchett said.

"We’ve innovated our restaurant interior to offer a designated mobile order pick-up area. We also offer an inviting and comfortable atmosphere for guests who choose to dine-in and spend time in our restaurants."

The news release did note that the menu will be simplified at the new restaurant models. It will feature some new items like their refresher and energy drinks, as well as fan-favorites such as their fresh-brewed coffee, Iced Capps, donuts, Timbits, and breakfast sandwiches.

Luckily for fans of Tim Hortons in the United States, the drive-thru-only location won't just be opening up in West Virginia. The company plans to open up the new next-gen restaurants in Ohio, Michigan and New York, among other states this summer.

There are currently 636 Tim Hortons locations in the United States, and more than 5,100 locations worldwide throughout 13 countries.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Spencer Platt/Getty Images