Overview
- Interim CEO Ken Cook said a mid‑single‑digit share of the U.S. system will be wound down, focusing on consistently underperforming restaurants.
- Closures will start later this year and continue into 2026, with no list of affected locations released and timing updates promised on future calls.
- Leaders expect removing weak units to boost sales and profitability at nearby stores while allowing franchisees to reinvest in higher‑return sites.
- In some cases Wendy’s will pursue alternatives to closure, including technology or equipment upgrades or transferring restaurants to different operators.
- Wendy’s reported a 4.7% decline in U.S. same‑store sales, noted strong early demand for new ‘Tendys’ chicken tenders, and highlighted ongoing international growth.