Canadian coffee-and-doughnut chain Tim Hortons, which will merge with Burger King Worldwide, has witnessed a rise in sales in Canada and the US markets for the third quarter.

The coffee chain said that same-store sales increased 3.6% in Canada and 7% in the US.

Total revenues for the third quarter nine-week period ending 31 August 2014, grew 9.3% to $874.3m, compared to $800.1m last year.

Operating income grew by 8.9% to $192.4m, compared to $176.6m the previosu year.

Systemwide sales growth was the primary driver of both a 9.2% increase in distribution sales and a 7.5% increase in rents and royalties revenue.

Tim Hortons president and CEO Marc Caira said: "Guests have been responding favourably to our menu and technology innovation, resulting in good momentum in our business. Our second quarter results reflect strong organizational alignment and execution of our Winning in the New Era strategic plan."

As of June 29, Tim Hortons had 4,546 restaurants, including 3,630 in Canada, 866 in the US and 50 in the Gulf Co-operation Council.

Last month, Burger King announced the acquisition of Tim Hortons.