Learning from the experience of Tim Hortons’ first American suitors

It all started so promisingly. Two folksy brands, Canadian coffee mainstay Tim Hortons and U.S. burger slinger Wendy’s International joined hands in 1995 to form the continent’s third-largest fast-food conglomerate. But after just over a decade of being bound together, Tim’s was spun off and the relationship ended.

With the news that Burger King is looking to acquire Tim’s in a move motivated by Canada’s favourable tax climate, the most valued brand in Canada is again for sale. But the Wendy’s deal should provide a cautionary tale for those enthusiastic about this latest burger-coffee collaboration.

READ: What value does Tim Hortons really see in Burger King? »

Here is a timeline of the Tim Hortons-Wendy’s merger: