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Wendy’s to Close 200–350 U.S. Restaurants Under ‘Project Fresh’ Restructuring

The chain targets underperforming units to reallocate franchise capital, bolstering profitability at remaining locations.

Overview

  • Closures will begin in the fourth quarter of 2025 and continue into 2026, with specific locations yet to be named.
  • Wendy’s says decisions will be made with franchisees on a case-by-case basis, including potential remodels, transfers to new operators, or shutdowns.
  • The plan affects a mid‑single‑digit share of the roughly 6,000 U.S. restaurants, equating to about 200–350 sites.
  • The reset follows a roughly 5% drop in U.S. same‑store sales and pressure from value-focused rivals and higher food and labor costs.
  • Investors sold the stock on the announcement, with shares down 7% Friday and 6% Monday, and the move adds to a 2024 wave reported at 140 to 240 closures.