Wendy's to Close 300 Underperforming U.S. Locations

Wendy's has announced plans to close about 300 underperforming locations across the United States over the next year. Interim Chief Executive Officer Ken Cook stated that these closures represent a small fraction of the chain's approximately 6,000 U.S. restaurants.

Cook explained that the decision aims to strengthen the brand by allowing franchisees to invest more resources into their remaining restaurants. He noted that closing underperforming units is expected to boost sales and profitability at nearby locations.

The closures are set to begin this year and continue through 2026. This move follows the closure of 140 restaurants last year for similar reasons. Despite these efforts, Wendy's reported a 4.7% decline in sales during the third quarter of 2025, while competitors such as Burger King, McDonald's, and Shake Shack reported revenue increases during the same period.

Cook also mentioned that many of the remaining Wendy's locations will benefit from improved equipment and technology, and several will be transferred to new owners. The company has not released a list of locations targeted for closure or specified how many in each state will be affected.