Wendy's is going to close hundreds of locations, with some set to shutter this year. CNN
Wendy’s is gearing up for one of its biggest shake-ups in recent years. The fast-food giant announced plans to close hundreds of restaurants across the United States as part of a broader turnaround strategy aimed at improving profitability and brand performance.
Interim CEO Ken Cook revealed on Friday that a “mid single-digit percentage” of Wendy’s 6,000 US outlets will shut down over the next two years. That translates to approximately 200 to 350 restaurant closures.
“These actions will strengthen our overall system,” Cook said. “They’ll allow franchisees to reinvest capital and focus on higher-performing locations.”
Underperforming Stores Face the Axe
The closures will primarily target locations that have “consistently underperformed” and are weighing down the company’s national results. Cook emphasized that removing these lagging outlets will help boost sales and profitability in surrounding restaurants.
While Wendy’s has not released a list of specific locations, the process is expected to begin later this year and continue through 2026.
This isn’t the company’s first wave of closures. Just last year, Wendy’s shut down 140 underperforming outlets, citing similar reasons.
Wendy’s Battles Falling Sales Amid Rising Competition
The move comes at a time when Wendy’s is struggling to keep pace with competitors like McDonald’s, Burger King, and Shake Shack. The company recently reported a 4.7% drop in US same-store sales—its second consecutive quarterly decline.
In contrast, rivals in the fast-food market have seen sales climb thanks to aggressive marketing, digital deals, and limited-time offers. Wendy’s, however, appears to be losing traction with value-focused consumers.
The turnaround plan, including the closures, aims to reverse that trend and help Wendy’s reclaim market share in the increasingly competitive quick-service restaurant sector.
Focus Shifts to Stronger Offerings and Franchise Support
Cook said the company is doubling down on menu innovation and franchise support. The brand recently launched its new “Tendys” chicken tenders—a move designed to tap into America’s growing appetite for chicken-based items.
The launch exceeded expectations, with some locations selling out before the official ad campaign began. “We’re encouraged by the strong response to Tendys,” Cook noted. “It’s a great first step as we work to reestablish our leadership in chicken.”
This renewed focus on product innovation and operational efficiency is part of Wendy’s broader strategy to strengthen its identity and rebuild consumer loyalty.
A Leaner, More Profitable Wendy’s Ahead
Industry experts say Wendy’s decision reflects a shift toward a leaner and more efficient business model. By closing unprofitable locations, the chain hopes to optimize resources, boost franchisee confidence, and sharpen its competitive edge.
Analysts also believe the move could position Wendy’s for a stronger rebound if the company successfully leverages its core menu strengths and customer-focused strategies.
For now, the fast-food chain is betting on fewer—but stronger—restaurants to drive growth. As Cook summed up, “This is not about shrinking the brand. It’s about building a better, more sustainable Wendy’s for the future.”
