Tim Hortons Inc. said Tuesday it will announce next month new plans to grow internationally.

The iconic Oakville, Ont.-based coffee chain said it would release details when it releases its fourth quarter results on Feb. 25.

Tim Hortons 3-month chart.Tim Hortons 3-month chart.

CEO Don Schroeder said there is opportunity for international growth beyond the "small footprint" it has made in Ireland and the U.K.

Schroeder said the firm is now considering how to do that, including whether it will launch joint venture projects or expand by itself.

Tim's expanded into New York City with 12 locations last summer. It opened 38 restaurants in the U.S. and 71 new Canadian locations in the first three quarters of 2009, despite a drop in demand in the industry.

With files from The Canadian Press