Second Cup Cuts Ties with Montreal Franchisee Over Antisemitic Actions

The coffee chain terminated the contract of a franchise owner filmed making hateful remarks and gestures during a pro-Palestinian protest.

Second Cup Canada announced the immediate termination of a Montreal franchisee's contract after reviewing videos showing the individual performing a Nazi salute and making antisemitic remarks at a protest.
The incidents occurred during a pro-Palestinian demonstration outside Concordia University, with the franchisee's actions widely condemned for their hateful nature.
Two café locations operated by the franchisee at Montreal's Jewish General Hospital have been shut down, with plans to reopen under new management while retaining current staff.
The health authority overseeing the hospital and multiple political leaders have expressed support for Second Cup's swift action and denounced antisemitism in all forms.
The protests, which included calls for divestment from companies tied to Israel, have heightened tensions in Montreal, with some demonstrations turning violent and drawing criticism from across the political spectrum.