Wendy’s to shut hundreds of U.S. stores as sales slump

Wendy’s will close hundreds of its U.S. restaurants next year after reporting falling sales and weakening customer traffic, as Americans tighten discretionary spending amid rising living costs.

Interim CEO Ken Cook said a “mid-single-digit percentage” of the chain’s 6,011 U.S. locations—roughly 241 to 360 stores—will shut as the company focuses on boosting performance at remaining outlets through its Project Fresh turnaround plan.

U.S. sales dropped 4.7% last quarter, reflecting fewer visits despite higher average order sizes, while the broader fast-food sector faces similar pressure from value-conscious consumers.

Wendy’s says it is seeing early improvements in company-operated stores but acknowledges the industry-wide shift forcing brands to rethink pricing and promotions.

Image credit: Jacob McGowin