The fast-food industry continues to face significant challenges, with major chains making difficult decisions to streamline their operations. Wendy’s has announced plans to close roughly 300 locations across the United States, beginning in late 2025. This dramatic move comes as the company struggles with declining sales and seeks to revitalize its business model for long-term sustainability.
Wendy’s Plans Major Nationwide Closures
Fast-food giant Wendy’s has announced plans to close roughly 300 locations across the United States, beginning in late 2025. The move comes as the company continues to optimize its restaurant portfolio, signaling continuing challenges within its operations and franchise system.
CEO Confirms Closure Figures
During a November 7 quarterly earnings call, CEO Kirk Tanner informed investors that Wendy’s would be closing a “mid single-digit percentage” of its locations. With around 6,000 stores currently operating nationwide, this equates to between 240 and 360 closures. One investor estimated that the total could reach about 300 stores.
Addressing Underperforming Restaurants
Tanner explained that the company’s decision stems from a need to address underperforming restaurants that fail to uphold the Wendy’s brand or contribute to franchise profitability. He emphasized that the company’s goal is to “fix or remove” those locations dragging down overall performance.
Possible Alternatives to Shutdowns
Not all struggling locations will shut their doors immediately. According to Tanner, some restaurants may undergo technology and equipment upgrades or be transferred to new operators who can manage them more effectively. However, where improvement isn’t feasible, closure will be the final step.
Timeline and Unannounced Locations
Wendy’s expects the closure process to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025, but has yet to release a list of affected restaurants. The company said it would provide more details as decisions are finalized and franchise discussions progress.
Sales Decline and Competitive Challenges
The closures follow a period of declining sales for Wendy’s. The chain reported a 4.7% drop in same-store sales – revenue from stores open for at least a year – and a 2.6% decline in global systemwide sales in the third quarter. These results place Wendy’s behind several major fast-food competitors, prompting the company to reevaluate its strategies for long-term growth and profitability.
