Wendy’s announced plans to close between 5% and 6% of its restaurants in the first half of the year, a move aligned with a broader turnaround strategy the company revealed last November. During that plan, the fast-food chain indicated it would shutter hundreds of its locations.
As part of this effort, the company reported that 28 stores were closed in the fourth quarter, according to interim CEO Ken Cook, during a recent earnings call. Wendy’s finished the year with 5,969 restaurants operational in the U.S.
The closures are targeted at “consistently underperforming restaurants,” with decisions made in consultation with Wendy’s franchisees. This collaborative approach aims to allow franchisees to concentrate on more profitable locations and enhance overall business performance.
However, the company has yet to provide details on which specific locations will be impacted by these closures.
Wendy’s has been grappling with a downturn in U.S. sales, with same-store sales experiencing an 11.3% decline in the last quarter of 2025. This brings the total same-store sales decrease to 5.6% for the entire year. Cook pointed out that an overreliance on limited-time promotions may have contributed to this slump. In response, Wendy’s is shifting its focus toward everyday value options, which includes modifications to its Biggie meals.
In January, the company expanded its Biggie range to include the $4 Biggie Bites, a $6 Biggie Bag, and an $8 Biggie Bundle. This strategic adjustment is aimed at appealing to value-conscious consumers who are cutting back on discretionary spending amid rising inflation.
Additionally, Cook mentioned that the introduction of chicken tenders, branded as “Tendys,” has seen a positive market response, performing well even as the company navigates through declining same-store sales figures. The adjustments reflect Wendy’s commitment to re-energizing its brand and improving customer engagement amidst challenging financial conditions.
