Wendy's Plans to Close Hundreds of Stores Nationwide
Wendy's announced it will close about 300 stores across the United States in the near future. This move follows an earlier decision to shut down 150 stores scheduled for late 2024. Overall, more than 350 locations are expected to close.
Details on the Closures
Interim Wendy's CEO Ken Cook confirmed the closures during a quarterly earnings call on November 7. He explained the closures are aimed at improving the brand's overall performance and financial health for franchisees.
"When we look at the system today, we have some restaurants that do not elevate the brand and are a drag from a franchisee financial performance perspective," Cook said. "The goal is to address and fix those restaurants."
Impact on New Jersey Wendy's Locations
Wendy's is one of the ten most popular fast-food chains in New Jersey, with 145 locations statewide, including many in South Jersey. However, Wendy's has not released a specific list of which restaurants will be closed or confirmed if any New Jersey locations are included.
Closures are expected to begin later this year. Customers can find nearby Wendy's restaurants using the restaurant locator tool on Wendy's official website.
Additional Information
- Closures are separate from those planned for late 2024.
- The announcement did not specify targeted stores or general locations.
- Efforts are focused on preserving valuable locations while closing underperforming ones.
Williams, a Philadelphia-based journalist, reports on trending topics across the Mid-Atlantic region.
Author’s Summary: Wendy’s will close over 350 stores nationwide to strengthen its brand and financial health, but it remains unclear if any New Jersey locations will be affected.