Wendy’s, a prominent fast-food chain, has announced plans to close 140 U.S. restaurants by the end of this year, in addition to the previously announced 100 closures.
Despite these closures, Wendy’s is looking to the future with optimism, stating that they intend to open between 250 and 300 new restaurants this year. This strategic move aims to offset the closures of underperforming locations.
Wendy’s President and CEO, Kirk Tanner, explained that the closures are due to the underperformance of these restaurants compared to others, stating, “They’re just in locations that don’t build our brands.” Tanner also noted that some of these restaurants are outdated, considering the brand’s 55-year history.
The company, based in Dublin, Ohio, did not disclose a list of the specific locations to be closed but confirmed that they are spread across the country.
Tanner emphasized that Wendy’s is focusing on building new restaurants to deliver a superior customer experience and outperform the average of the closing restaurants.
At the end of the third quarter, Wendy’s operated 7,292 restaurants, with over 80% located in the U.S.
On Friday, Wendy’s shares experienced a 3.5% increase in midday trading.
In contrast, U.S. restaurant sales have seen minimal growth this year due to consumer resistance to higher menu prices. Wendy’s same-store sales, which measure sales at locations open for at least a year, increased by less than 1% in the U.S. during the first half of this year.
The restaurant industry has faced challenges, with Denny’s announcing 150 closures by the end of 2025 and Red Lobster filing for bankruptcy protection in May after shutting down dozens of stores.
