Wendy's to Close Up to 350 Underperforming U.S. Locations

Wendy's has announced plans to close between 200 and 350 underperforming U.S. restaurants as part of a restructuring effort aimed at improving profitability and strengthening franchise operations. Interim CEO Ken Cook stated that the closures represent a "mid single-digit percentage" of the chain's approximately 6,000 U.S. locations and will occur through 2026.

Cook emphasized that the move will allow franchisees to redirect investment toward better-performing restaurants, enhancing efficiency and sales across nearby outlets. The company did not disclose which specific locations would be affected.

This decision follows the closure of 140 stores last year due to similar performance issues. In the latest quarter, Wendy's reported a 4.7% decline in same-store sales, lagging behind competitors such as McDonald's, Burger King, and Shake Shack, which all posted growth during the same period.

As of early 2025, Wendy's operates approximately 5,995 locations across the United States. The company has not specified how many of the closures will occur in Ohio, where it has a significant presence.