Multinational quick-service restaurant (QSR) brand Wendy's has confirmed plans to enter new European markets by signing two development agreements with franchisees in the Republic of Ireland and in Romania.
The move marks a significant step in Wendy’s global expansion strategy, supporting its plans to open “hundreds” of restaurants across Europe within a decade from 2025.
The company is also seeking experienced franchisee candidates in European markets to aid in expanding its restaurant footprint across the continent.
Wendy's seeks franchisees with strong operations experience, local development expertise and a proven track record to support the rapid growth of the brand.
Since re-entering the UK market in 2021, Wendy's has established a strong base for European growth.
Wendy’s anticipates up to 50 restaurants in the UK by the end of 2024 and has plans for an eventual 400.
It will continue its UK expansion with a new opening in Liverpool in the summer of 2024.
Wendy's has invested in local resources, including regional operations teams, supply chains and partnerships with marketing and creative agencies, to support its European growth.
Wendy's Company International president E J Wunsch said: “We are continuing our journey to become a brand of increased global significance, and Europe is a high-priority, strategic growth market to expand Wendy's presence internationally.
“To accelerate our momentum, we are focused on building relationships with franchisees who share our ambition to grow and scale Wendy's restaurant footprint across the continent.”
The brand offers fresh, made-to-order square hamburgers and signature items such as the Baconator, the Spicy Chicken Sandwich, Dave's Single and the Frosty dessert.
With 7,000 restaurants worldwide across more than 30 markets and territories, Wendy's is executing an ambitious strategy to accelerate its international presence.
The brand's international operations are central to its expansion, representing 70% of its planned growth until 2025.
