In the competitive landscape of fast food, adaptability is key. As one of the most recognized fast-food brands globally, Wendy’s has taken a bold step in its strategy for growth by deciding to close underperforming restaurants while simultaneously expanding into high-growth markets. This approach reflects an emerging trend within the fast-food industry, where companies are shifting their focus to operational efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and smart expansion. This article delves into Wendy’s recent strategic decisions, explores how they align with industry trends, and evaluates the potential impact on Wendy’s long-term growth and market position.

Why Wendy’s is Closing Underperforming Locations

In 2024, Wendy’s announced its plan to close several outdated restaurants, primarily in underperforming areas. The closures are expected to occur where average unit volumes (AUV) fall significantly below the company average of $1.1 million and where operating margins are lower than desired. Wendy’s CEO Kirk Tanner emphasizes that these closures will strengthen the company’s overall health by eliminating financial drains, thereby allowing resources to be reallocated to higher-performing areas.

The rationale behind these closures lies in data-driven insights, which highlight that older stores in low-traffic areas often struggle to meet the brand’s evolving standards for customer experience and profitability. By pruning these locations, Wendy’s is set to streamline its operations, ensure that resources are focused on stores with higher potential, and pave the way for newer, more technologically advanced stores with a stronger market appeal.

Balancing Closures and New Openings for Net Growth

Wendy’s strategic decision to close underperforming stores is balanced by its commitment to open new locations. By the end of 2024, the company aims to add between 250 and 300 new restaurants globally. However, with approximately 140 closures planned in the fourth quarter alone, the net growth in store count is expected to remain relatively flat for the year. This careful balance indicates Wendy’s emphasis on quality over quantity, prioritizing profitable and sustainable locations over sheer expansion.

This approach aligns with broader industry trends, as other chains like Denny’s and Shake Shack also make similar moves. These companies are opting to close low-performing outlets while opening new locations in higher-potential markets. Such a strategy reflects a shift from traditional expansion models to a more calculated approach focused on profitability, customer experience, and brand sustainability.

The Role of Data-Driven Insights in Wendy’s Expansion

One of the most noteworthy aspects of Wendy’s recent strategy is its reliance on data-driven insights to guide expansion efforts. According to Tanner, the company has targeted high-growth areas with promising trade potential. Restaurants in these areas have been shown to generate AUVs exceeding $2 million and boast operating margins above the system average. Wendy’s identifies these regions based on factors such as customer demographics, traffic patterns, and regional economic conditions.

By focusing on these high-potential areas, Wendy’s can create stores with improved customer experiences. This includes enhanced drive-thru and delivery operations, modernized technology for ordering, and an updated Next Gen prototype. Introduced in 2022, Wendy’s Next Gen prototype has become the standard for new builds, featuring a delivery pickup window, dedicated parking for mobile orders, and in-store shelving for digital pickups, all of which cater to the demands of modern consumers seeking convenience and speed.

Improved Employee Satisfaction and Operational Efficiency

In addition to financial considerations, Wendy’s decision to close underperforming locations and open new ones also addresses employee satisfaction. In newer, high-performing stores, Wendy’s has implemented advanced labor models that streamline operations and boost efficiency. As a result, these stores typically experience higher employee satisfaction, with staff benefiting from more efficient workflows and reduced workload pressures.

By investing in a better work environment, Wendy’s hopes to attract and retain employees, a crucial factor in an industry often challenged by high turnover rates. Satisfied employees not only contribute to a positive workplace culture but also enhance customer service quality, which is critical for fast-food establishments reliant on quick and pleasant interactions.

Future Expansion: Domestic and International Growth

Wendy’s future expansion will largely focus on international markets, with 70% of new stores planned outside the U.S. This shift reflects Wendy’s goal to achieve significant market penetration internationally, particularly in regions like Latin America and Canada, where franchise incentives introduced in 2023 have sparked numerous development discussions. Wendy’s domestic expansion strategy will focus more selectively on high-growth regions, with 30% of new stores expected in the U.S.

To encourage growth among its franchisees, Wendy’s offers development incentives designed to reduce upfront costs and support new store openings. This support enables franchisees to open more restaurants and enhances the company’s ability to meet its target of 3% to 4% net unit growth by 2025.

Wendy’s Competitive Advantage in a Shifting Market

Wendy’s recent strategic moves reflect a commitment to staying competitive in a challenging and ever-evolving market. With fast-casual chains and other quick-service restaurants (QSRs) vying for customers, Wendy’s has positioned itself to succeed by emphasizing operational efficiency, modernized stores, and customer-centric innovations. The fast-food chain’s investment in high-tech, customer-focused features in new stores differentiates it from competitors, potentially attracting customers who prioritize convenience and speed.

Moreover, Wendy’s decision to close underperforming locations also showcases the brand’s adaptability and foresight. Rather than focusing solely on expansion, Wendy’s is ensuring that its growth aligns with its overall mission to provide a better customer experience and maintain healthy financial performance.

Challenges and Considerations for Wendy’s Going Forward

While Wendy’s strategy appears promising, several challenges lie ahead. Closing stores can lead to a temporary loss of revenue and potentially impact brand visibility in certain markets. Additionally, managing the balance between domestic and international expansion requires careful coordination and market research to ensure that resources are appropriately allocated.

Another consideration for Wendy’s is the potential reaction from franchisees, who may face financial strain from closures in less profitable areas. However, by offering incentives and support, Wendy’s can help franchisees transition to more profitable locations and take advantage of the brand’s new, more efficient operating models.

Conclusion

Wendy’s decision to close underperforming locations while simultaneously focusing on high-growth areas is a strategic move aimed at strengthening its market position and financial health. By leveraging data-driven insights, modernizing its store prototypes, and offering franchise incentives, Wendy’s demonstrates an understanding of both current industry trends and evolving consumer preferences. This dual approach—targeting profitable, high-growth regions while letting go of less productive locations—positions Wendy’s for sustainable growth in a highly competitive industry.

With a promising pipeline of new stores and a commitment to enhancing customer experience through technology, Wendy’s is well-positioned to navigate future challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. As the company progresses with its international and domestic expansion plans, Wendy’s is likely to continue serving as a model for strategic growth within the fast-food sector.