What Are Operating Procedures of Wendy's Franchise
Ever wondered how to become a part of a globally recognized fast-food brand like Wendy's? Discover the essential steps and investment considerations involved in franchising this popular QSR. If you're serious about diving into this opportunity, our comprehensive Wendy's Franchise Business Plan Template can provide the strategic roadmap you need.
| # | Operating Procedure | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brand Standards and Operations | Franchisees must strictly follow Wendy's established operational standards, recipes, and approved supplier lists. This ensures a consistent product and customer experience across all locations. |
| 2 | Financial Reporting and Fees | Ongoing financial obligations include royalty fees of 4% and marketing fees of 4% of gross sales. Accurate and timely reporting of sales and financial data to the franchisor is mandatory. |
| 3 | Marketing and Advertising | Franchisees are required to participate in national and regional marketing campaigns. This collective effort aims to drive customer traffic and brand awareness. |
| 4 | Supply Chain Management | Wendy's manages a supply chain with negotiated pricing for food and paper products. Franchisees benefit from this system to help control Cost of Goods Sold (COGS). |
| 5 | Customer Service | Exceptional customer service is a core operating principle. This includes efficient order taking, accurate food preparation, and a welcoming dining environment. |
| 6 | Restaurant Maintenance and Cleanliness | Maintaining a clean, safe, and well-maintained restaurant is paramount. This covers both the interior and exterior of the establishment. |
Operating Procedure for Training and Support
What training is provided to new franchisees?
The Wendy's franchise training and support program is comprehensive and mandatory for the new franchisee and their key management staff. This program consists of approximately 6 months of intensive, hands-on training covering all aspects of restaurant operations, including food preparation and safety, customer service, marketing, financial management using Wendy's proprietary software, and human resources. A significant portion of this training occurs in a designated certified training restaurant. The cost of this initial training for up to six people is included in the Technical Assistance Fee of $50,000, though the franchisee is responsible for all travel, lodging, and salary expenses for their team during the training period.
What ongoing support can franchisees expect?
Wendy's provides robust ongoing support, including a dedicated Franchise Business Consultant who serves as the primary point of contact for operational guidance, performance reviews, and strategic advice. Franchisees benefit from national and regional marketing campaigns, a managed supply chain with negotiated pricing on food and paper products (which helps control the 32-34% COGS), and continuous access to technological upgrades and operational best practices. This continuous support system is a cornerstone of the Wendy's franchising model, designed to help operators maximize sales and profitability while maintaining brand standards across the system.
Operating Procedure for the Franchise Agreement
What is the term of the agreement?
The standard Wendy's franchise agreement process results in a contract with an initial term of 20 years. This long-term commitment reflects the significant capital investment required from the franchisee. At the end of the 20-year term, the franchisee may have the option to renew the agreement for a successor term, typically 10 years, provided they are in good standing with the franchisor and meet the then-current requirements for renewal. Renewal often requires the franchisee to commit to a restaurant remodel or upgrade to the latest brand standards, which could involve a capital investment of several hundred thousand dollars.
What are the key contractual obligations?
Key obligations outlined in the agreement require the franchisee to operate the restaurant in strict compliance with Wendy's operational standards, recipes, and approved supplier list. The contract specifies the ongoing payment of the 4% royalty and 4% advertising fees, mandates participation in all national and regional marketing programs, and includes specific reporting requirements for sales and financial data. The agreement also contains clauses regarding transfer, default, and termination, outlining the specific conditions under which a franchisee can sell their business or have their license revoked, critical details for anyone looking into a Wendy's franchise opportunity.
Key Takeaways
- The total initial investment to open a Wendy's franchise can range significantly, from $310,095 to $2,828,707, depending on factors like real estate and location.
- Prospective franchisees must have a minimum of $310,095 in liquid capital and a net worth between $1,500,000 and $3,000,000.
- Ongoing fees include a 4% royalty fee on gross sales and a 4% marketing fee, with a $50,000 initial franchise fee.
- Average annual revenue per Wendy's unit is approximately $2,089,354, with the potential for much higher earnings in top-performing locations.
- The average Wendy's restaurant generates an EBITDA of $416,169, representing an 18.2% profit margin on revenue.
- While breakeven can take up to 18 months, the investment payback period is estimated to be around 8 months for a successful franchise.
- Wendy's primarily seeks experienced, multi-unit operators with a proven track record in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry.
What Is The Business Model Structure?
The business model for a franchise is fundamentally about replication and standardized operations. For this particular quick service restaurant (QSR) chain, the structure centers on providing a consistent, high-quality dining experience across all locations. This involves a strong emphasis on fresh, never-frozen beef hamburgers, alongside other popular menu items and their signature dessert. The franchisor provides the established brand, operational systems, marketing support, and supply chain management, while the franchisee invests capital and manages the day-to-day operations of an individual restaurant.
How does a Wendy's franchise operate?
Operating a franchise involves adhering strictly to the franchisor's established protocols. This QSR model is designed for efficiency, with a primary focus on speed of service, particularly through the drive-thru, which accounts for over 75% of sales in most U.S. locations. This trend has been reinforced by consumer behavior shifts, making drive-thru optimization a critical operational component. The model also accommodates dine-in, take-out, and a growing digital and delivery segment. By 2024, over 90% of U.S. locations had extended late-night hours, broadening operational reach and revenue potential.
The target demographic is broad, encompassing families, young adults, and general lunch and dinner patrons. The expansion of the breakfast daypart has further diversified the customer base and revenue streams. This multi-channel approach ensures accessibility and caters to various consumer preferences.
What are the primary revenue streams?
The main source of revenue for a franchise unit comes from the direct sale of food and beverages. The core menu items, such as their popular burgers, are the primary drivers of sales volume. As of early 2025, sales are typically distributed with the drive-thru contributing approximately 75-80% of revenue. Dine-in and take-out orders make up around 10-15%, while digital and delivery orders account for the remaining 10-15%, showing a steady year-over-year increase in the digital share by about 5%.
The breakfast daypart, which has seen significant growth since 2020, now contributes roughly 8-10% to total sales for an average restaurant. The corporate goal is to increase this to 12% by the end of 2025 through strategic promotions and menu enhancements.
Key Operational Considerations for Franchisees
- Drive-Thru Efficiency: Given that over 75% of sales come from the drive-thru, optimizing this channel for speed and accuracy is paramount.
- Digital Integration: Embracing and promoting digital ordering and delivery platforms is crucial, as this segment continues to grow.
- Daypart Expansion: Leveraging opportunities like breakfast and late-night hours can significantly boost overall revenue.
Understanding these operational facets is key to evaluating the potential of a franchise opportunity. For a deeper dive into the advantages and disadvantages, consider exploring What are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Wendy's Franchise?
What is the Cost to Franchise Wendy's?
When considering the Wendy's franchise opportunity, understanding the financial commitment is crucial. The total initial investment for a new Wendy's restaurant can vary significantly, generally falling between $21 million and $47 million as of late 2024 and early 2025 estimates. This broad range is influenced by several key factors, including the cost of real estate, the specific design of the 'Global Next Gen' restaurant, and regional economic conditions.
How much capital is needed for Wendy's franchise?
To become a Wendy's franchisee, a substantial amount of capital is required. The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) indicates a required cash investment ranging from $310,095 to $715,341. Beyond this, prospective franchisees must also meet a net worth requirement, typically between $1.5 million and $3 million. This demonstrates the significant financial capacity needed to secure a Wendy's franchise license.
What is the total initial investment?
The total initial investment for a Wendy's franchise is substantial and includes a variety of components. While the FDD outlines a lower initial investment range of $310,095 to $2,828,707, real-world scenarios, especially for new builds with the latest design, can push this much higher. For instance, real estate acquisition alone can exceed $15 million. Building and equipment costs are estimated between $13 million and $25 million. Additionally, there's a technical assistance fee of $50,000 to the franchisor, and initial inventory and working capital typically require another $100,000 to $200,000. The FDD's figures often reflect purchasing existing locations or less complex builds, whereas new construction, particularly in high-cost urban areas, can indeed approach the upper end of the estimated $47 million total investment.
What are the ongoing fees and royalties?
Once a Wendy's restaurant is operational, ongoing fees are a standard part of the franchise agreement process. Franchisees must pay a royalty fee of 4% of gross monthly sales. In addition to this, a national advertising contribution of another 4% of gross monthly sales is required. This brings the total to 8% of gross sales directed to the franchisor for ongoing support and marketing. Some locations may also incur local or regional advertising cooperative fees, which can add an additional 0.5% to 1%. These fees are non-negotiable and are essential for maintaining brand standards and national marketing efforts. For a restaurant generating $20 million in annual gross sales, these fees would amount to approximately $80,000 for royalties and $80,000 for national advertising annually.
Key Considerations for Franchise Investment
- Understand the FDD: Thoroughly review the Franchise Disclosure Document for detailed financial information and contractual obligations.
- Location is Key: Real estate costs can be a significant driver of the total investment. Research potential locations carefully.
- Capital Reserves: Ensure you have sufficient working capital beyond the initial investment to cover operating expenses during the initial startup phase.
- Profitability Potential: While the average annual revenue per unit was $2,089,354 in 2023, understanding the factors that contribute to higher or lower performance is vital for assessing the ROI for a Wendy's franchise.
For those interested in the broader implications of this business model, exploring What are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Wendy's Franchise? can provide further insights.
Is Owning A Wendy's Franchise Profitable?
When considering a Wendy's franchise opportunity, a key question for any aspiring franchisee is about potential profitability. The numbers from the latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) provide a solid starting point for this evaluation.
What is the average restaurant revenue?
What are the typical annual sales?
Based on the 2024 FDD, the average annual sales for a company-owned restaurant in 2023 was approximately $213 million. Franchise-owned restaurants reported a slightly lower average of around $205 million for the same period. These figures represent a slight increase of about 2-3% from the previous year, which can be attributed to menu price adjustments and continued growth in the breakfast and digital sales channels. It's important to note that top-quartile restaurants can significantly exceed these averages, reporting over $28 million in annual sales.
This data is a crucial indicator for potential investors assessing if owning a Wendy's franchise is profitable, as revenue forms the bedrock of any profit and loss calculation.
What influences a location's profitability?
A location's profitability is a direct result of several key factors: sales volume, cost of goods sold (COGS), labor expenses, and occupancy costs. As of early 2025, COGS for a typical Wendy's is estimated to be around 32-34% of sales, while labor costs typically range between 28-31%.
The return on investment (ROI) for a Wendy's franchise is heavily influenced by how efficiently these prime costs are managed. A well-managed location can achieve an EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) margin of 14-18% of sales. For a restaurant generating the average sales figure of $205 million, an EBITDA margin of 16% would translate to approximately $328,000 in annual earnings before accounting for debt service, taxes, and other corporate overhead. This provides a tangible framework for calculating potential returns.
Tips for Maximizing Profitability
- Focus on Sales Drivers: Leverage breakfast menu items and digital ordering platforms, which have shown strong growth.
- Control Prime Costs: Diligent management of COGS and labor is critical for boosting EBITDA margins.
- Location, Location, Location: While not explicitly detailed in the FDD P&L, site selection plays a paramount role in achieving higher sales volumes.
For a deeper dive into the financial commitment, explore How Much Does a Wendy's Franchise Cost?
Operating Procedure To Become A Wendy's Franchisee
What are the financial requirements?
To become a Wendy's franchisee, candidates must meet stringent financial criteria. As of 2025, the minimum liquid capital requirement is $1 million per restaurant to be developed. The average net worth for a Wendy's franchisee candidate must be at least $5 million. Wendy's typically seeks multi-unit operators, so these requirements are often for a commitment to develop several locations over a set period. These figures ensure that candidates have sufficient funds to cover the high initial investment and maintain adequate working capital without being over-leveraged, a key part of the Wendy's franchise application process.
The initial investment for a Wendy's franchise can range significantly, from a low of $310,095 to a high of $2,828,707. This broad range accounts for various factors including real estate costs, build-out expenses, and initial inventory. The franchise fee alone is $50,000, with ongoing royalty fees at 4% of gross sales and a 4% marketing fee.
What is the candidate profile?
Wendy's seeks experienced, multi-unit restaurant operators with a proven track record of success, preferably within the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry. They prioritize candidates who demonstrate strong business acumen and operational expertise. The ideal candidate for this Wendy's franchise opportunity is an enterprise-level franchisee with the infrastructure and capital to develop, own, and operate a minimum of three to five restaurants in a designated territory. First-time single-unit operators are rarely considered; the focus is on experienced business owners capable of managing a large-scale operation and adhering to brand standards across multiple Wendy's franchise locations available.
The franchise development model emphasizes growth through established operators. For instance, in 2023, there were 5,591 franchised units, indicating a strong reliance on franchisee partnerships. This focus on experienced operators is a strategic choice by Wendy's to ensure brand consistency and operational excellence across its expansive network.
| Financial Metric | Amount ($) | Percentage of Revenue (%) |
| Average annual revenue | 2,286,566 | 100% |
| Cost of goods sold (COGS) | 755,966 | 33.1% |
| Gross Profit Margin | 1,530,600 | 66.9% |
| Operating Expenses | 1,114,431 | 48.7% |
| EBITDA | 416,169 | 18.2% |
| Expense Type | Annual Amount ($) |
| Labor | 1,114,431 |
| Royalty Fees (4% of Gross Sales) | 91,463 |
| Total Operating Expenses | 1,205,894 |
Key Considerations for Becoming a Wendy's Franchisee
- Financial Readiness: Ensure you meet the minimum liquid capital of $1 million and an average net worth of $5 million.
- Experience: Prioritize candidates with a strong background in multi-unit restaurant operations.
- Commitment: Be prepared for a commitment to developing multiple locations, typically between three to five.
- Brand Adherence: Understanding and commitment to upholding Wendy's brand standards is crucial.
- Market Understanding: Researching designated territories and understanding local market dynamics is vital for success.
For those aspiring to own a piece of the Wendy's brand, understanding the detailed steps is paramount. You can find a comprehensive guide on How to Start a Wendy's Franchise in 7 Steps: Checklist.
Operating Procedure For The Application Process
How do you start the application?
To begin your journey to become a Wendy's franchisee, the first step involves completing an initial inquiry form available on the official Wendy's franchising website. This form is designed to gather essential details about your financial background, prior business experience, and specific areas of interest within the franchise opportunity.
Once your inquiry is submitted, candidates who meet the preliminary qualifications will be contacted by a dedicated Wendy's franchise development representative. This marks the beginning of a more in-depth conversation and the receipt of a formal application package. This initial screening and contact process typically takes between 2-4 weeks.
This initial phase of the Wendy's franchise application process is crucial for efficiently identifying candidates who align with the fundamental financial and experiential requirements before moving forward to more comprehensive due diligence.
What does the approval process entail?
The approval process for a Wendy's franchise is multi-faceted, involving a thorough review of your financial statements, business plan, and operational history. Following this detailed assessment, you will participate in a series of interviews with the Wendy's franchising team.
A pivotal stage involves the submission and meticulous review of your formal application and the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). The entire Wendy's franchise agreement process, from the initial inquiry to final approval and the signing of agreements, can span a period of 6 to 12 months.
Final approval is contingent upon several factors, including a background check, a comprehensive credit review, and attendance at a 'Discovery Day' or a similar meeting with senior leadership at Wendy's headquarters. This is a standard procedure to secure a Wendy's franchise license.
Key Considerations During the Application
- Financial Readiness: Ensure you have a clear understanding of the capital required. The initial investment for a Wendy's franchise can range from $310,095 to $2,828,707, with required cash on hand between $310,095 - $715,341. You'll also need a net worth between $1,500,000 - $3,000,000.
- Business Acumen: Demonstrate a solid business plan and relevant operational experience.
- Commitment: Be prepared for a rigorous process that can take up to a year.
| Initial Inquiry & Screening | 2-4 Weeks |
| Formal Application & Document Review | Included in the 6-12 month overall timeline |
| Interviews & Due Diligence | Ongoing throughout the process |
| Final Approval & Discovery Day | End stage of the process |
Understanding the detailed steps involved in the Wendy's franchise application process is essential for aspiring franchisees. This structured approach ensures that both the applicant and the franchisor are well-aligned for a successful partnership. For a comprehensive understanding of the financial commitments, you can explore How Much Does a Wendy's Franchise Cost?.
Operating Procedure For Site Selection And Development
How are franchise locations chosen?
Selecting the right location is a critical step for any Wendy's franchise owner. The company offers robust support and detailed guidelines to help franchisees navigate this process. They utilize advanced demographic and traffic analysis software to pinpoint areas with high potential for success. Franchisees collaborate closely with Wendy's real estate professionals to evaluate and secure suitable sites.
Key criteria for site selection, especially as we look towards 2025, emphasize visibility and accessibility. Strong traffic counts, ideally exceeding 25,000 vehicles per day, are essential. Proximity to retail centers, residential neighborhoods, and business districts is also a significant factor. While the franchisee is responsible for acquiring the real estate, all proposed locations must receive formal approval from the franchisor to ensure brand consistency and market viability.
What is the build-out process?
Once a site is approved, the franchisee adheres to Wendy's 'Global Next Gen' design standards for construction. This newer prototype, introduced in 2023, is designed with a smaller footprint, an upgraded kitchen, and improved integration for digital orders and delivery services.
The entire construction and build-out phase, from breaking ground to the grand opening, typically spans 9 to 12 months. The franchisor provides essential architectural plans, a list of pre-approved contractors, and guidance throughout the project management lifecycle. The total investment for construction, equipment, and signage, a significant portion of the overall Wendy's franchise cost, generally ranges from $15 million to $28 million for these modern, efficient restaurant models as of early 2025.
Tips for Site Selection and Development
- Prioritize visibility: Choose locations easily seen from the road.
- Analyze traffic patterns: Ensure sufficient daily vehicle and foot traffic.
- Understand local demographics: Match the target customer base with the area's population.
- Assess accessibility: Easy entry and exit points are crucial for customer convenience.
- Review competition: Understand the competitive landscape to identify opportunities.
| Key Site Criteria | Typical Metrics |
| Vehicle Traffic Count | Over 25,000 vehicles per day |
| Proximity | Retail, residential, and business centers |
| Visibility | High |
| Access | Easy |
| Build-Out Phase | Estimated Timeline |
| Groundbreaking to Grand Opening | 9 to 12 months |
| Prototype Design | Global Next Gen (introduced 2023) |
| Investment Component | Estimated Cost (Early 2025) |
| Construction, Equipment, and Signage | $15 million - $28 million |
For those considering a Wendy's franchise opportunity, understanding these operational procedures is vital. The initial investment for a Wendy's franchise can range from $310,095 to $2,828,707, with a required cash investment between $310,095 and $715,341. The franchise fee is $50,000, with ongoing royalty fees at 4% and marketing fees also at 4% of gross sales. Aspiring franchisees typically need a net worth between $1.5 million and $3 million. If you are exploring other quick-service restaurant options, you might want to consider What Are Some Alternatives to Wendy's Franchise?
Operating Procedure For Training And Support
What training is provided to new franchisees?
When you decide to become a Wendy's franchisee, you're stepping into a structured system designed for success. The franchise training and support program is comprehensive and mandatory for both the new franchisee and their key management staff. This intensive, hands-on training typically lasts for approximately 6 months.
The curriculum covers every facet of running a successful restaurant. This includes detailed instruction on food preparation and safety standards, exceptional customer service techniques, effective marketing strategies, and financial management using Wendy's proprietary software. You'll also receive training in human resources management. A significant portion of this crucial training takes place in a designated certified training restaurant, offering real-world experience.
The cost for this initial training, which can accommodate up to six individuals, is included within the $50,000 Technical Assistance Fee. However, it's important to note that franchisees are responsible for all travel, lodging, and salary expenses for their team during this training period.
What ongoing support can franchisees expect?
Wendy's provides robust ongoing support to ensure your continued success. You'll be assigned a dedicated Franchise Business Consultant. This consultant acts as your primary point of contact, offering invaluable operational guidance, conducting performance reviews, and providing strategic advice tailored to your business. This personal guidance is a key element in maximizing your Wendy's franchise opportunity.
As a franchisee, you'll benefit from national and regional marketing campaigns that drive customer traffic. Furthermore, Wendy's manages a sophisticated supply chain, which includes negotiated pricing on food and paper products. This centralized procurement helps franchisees control their Cost of Goods Sold (COGS), which typically falls within the 32-34% range, contributing to profitability. You'll also have continuous access to technological upgrades and operational best practices that are implemented across the entire franchise system.
This continuous support system is a cornerstone of the Wendy's franchising model. It's meticulously designed to help operators maximize sales and profitability while consistently upholding the brand's stringent standards across all locations. This commitment to support is vital for anyone looking to understand how to get a Wendy's franchise license and operate it effectively.
Tips for Maximizing Franchise Training and Support
- Engage Fully: Treat the initial training as if it were your own business launch. Ask questions, take notes, and actively participate in all hands-on exercises.
- Utilize Your Consultant: Don't hesitate to reach out to your Franchise Business Consultant regularly. They have the experience to help you navigate challenges and identify growth opportunities.
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of new operational procedures, marketing initiatives, and technology updates provided by the franchisor. Adapting quickly is key to maintaining a competitive edge.
| Initial Training Duration | Approx. 6 months |
| Training Cost Component (Included in Fee) | Technical Assistance Fee ($50,000) |
| Franchisee Responsibility During Training | Travel, Lodging, Salaries |
| Ongoing Support | Dedicated Franchise Business Consultant, Marketing, Supply Chain, Tech Updates |
| Average COGS Percentage | 32-34% |
Operating Procedure For The Franchise Agreement
What is the term of the agreement?
When you enter into a franchise agreement for a quick-service restaurant, the standard term is quite lengthy. For a Wendy's franchise, the initial contract duration is typically 20 years. This extended period acknowledges the substantial capital investment required from franchisees to establish and operate a restaurant. It’s a significant commitment, designed to provide ample time for franchisees to recoup their investment and build a profitable business.
Upon the expiration of the initial 20-year term, franchisees often have the opportunity to renew their agreement. This renewal period is usually for another 10 years. However, this renewal is contingent upon the franchisee maintaining good standing with the franchisor and meeting the brand’s current standards at the time of renewal. A common requirement for renewal is a commitment to a restaurant remodel or upgrade to align with the latest brand standards. These upgrades can represent a considerable capital outlay, potentially running into several hundred thousand dollars.
What are the key contractual obligations?
The franchise agreement is a comprehensive document that details the operational framework for running a restaurant. Key obligations for a Wendy's franchisee include operating the restaurant in strict adherence to all of the franchisor's operational standards. This covers everything from adhering to specific recipes and utilizing only approved suppliers from a designated list. Compliance is paramount to maintaining brand consistency and customer experience across all locations.
Ongoing financial commitments are also clearly defined. Franchisees are obligated to pay a 4% royalty fee on gross sales and a 4% advertising fee. Participation in all national and regional marketing programs is mandatory, contributing to the overall brand presence and customer engagement. Furthermore, the agreement mandates specific reporting requirements, ensuring the franchisor receives timely and accurate sales and financial data. These reporting mechanisms are crucial for performance tracking and support.
Beyond day-to-day operations and financial contributions, the agreement also outlines critical clauses concerning business transfers, defaults, and termination. These sections detail the specific conditions under which a franchisee can sell their business or, conversely, the circumstances that could lead to the revocation of their franchise license. Understanding these clauses is vital for anyone considering the How to Start a Wendy's Franchise in 7 Steps: Checklist.
| Initial Term | 20 years |
| Renewal Term | Typically 10 years |
| Royalty Fee | 4% of Gross Sales |
| Advertising Fee | 4% of Gross Sales |
Key Takeaways for Franchise Agreement Compliance
- Strict adherence to operational standards and approved supplier lists is non-negotiable.
- Timely payment of royalty and advertising fees is essential for maintaining good standing.
- Understanding transfer, default, and termination clauses is critical for long-term business security.
For potential franchisees, the financial requirements are significant. The initial investment can range from approximately $310,095 to over $2.8 million. This broad range depends on factors like location, real estate acquisition or leasing costs, and the specific build-out requirements. The franchisor requires a minimum net worth of $1.5 million to $3 million, with a portion of that needing to be liquid. For example, the required cash for initial investment typically falls between $310,095 and $715,341.
The financial performance of a unit is also outlined, with average annual revenue per unit reported at approximately $2,089,354 in recent data. The cost of goods sold (COGS) averages around 33.1%, leaving a gross profit margin of about 66.9%. Operating expenses account for roughly 48.7% of revenue, resulting in an EBITDA of approximately 18.2%. These figures provide a benchmark for potential profitability, although individual unit performance can vary significantly.
The total number of franchised units has shown steady growth, reaching 5,591 by 2023, indicating the continued viability and appeal of the Wendy's franchise opportunity. This widespread presence is supported by a robust network of 403 company-owned units as of the same year, demonstrating the franchisor's commitment to the brand's operational excellence.