The highly popular Squamish Tim Hortons is in the midst of a shake up following the exit of long time owner Wes Rafuse and the recent involvement of a mysterious new owner.
Rafuse, originally of Ottawa, established the franchise in 1993, and it quickly became a local gathering spot and a popular drive-through for commuters and visitors alike.
Now staff members are saying they're concerned for job security as well as security of payment and benefits after Rafuse's exit and in the wake of newspaper ads calling for new staff members.
Messages left for Rafuse last week were not returned, and calls this week led to a message stating the number is not in service.
Tim Hortons spokesperson David Morelli confirmed that the parent company bought the franchise back from Rafuse in June, and said no jobs were impacted.
"There's consistency among the staff," he said.
Concerns over pay may have arisen due to glitches occurring during changes in accounting software systems. Morelli said during the changes, one employee's vacation pay was delayed, but the problems have been resolved.
"There have been a couple of bumps along the way, including with the distributor, and that's since been worked out, and the bills are being paid and the product continues to come into the store," said Morelli. "We do recognize that was a small bump and we fixed it as quickly as we could."
The unforeseen changes in the operation caused employees to wonder about possible legal issues, but Morelli said no such problems exist.
"We [Rafuse and Tim Horton's] went our separate ways and are free and clear."
Meanwhile, staff remains puzzled over a supposed new owner waiting in the wings. A store manager said head office confirmed that a newspaper classified ad offering positions for $10.28 an hour plus benefits was bought by the supposed new franchisee but, added the manager, that person has yet to be introduced to anyone on staff.
Morelli said the company is currently looking for another franchisee.
"We want to refranchise the store and look for someone else to operate in Squamish," he said.
The newspaper advertiser did not respond to The Chief's requests for an interview.
