Wendy's signs new franchisees in Ireland and Romania with plan to open hundreds of restaurants in Europe

By Ciara Linnane

Fast-food company is recruiting franchisee candidates in European markets

Wendy's Co. said Tuesday it has signed development agreements with franchisees in Ireland and Romania as part of plans to open hundreds of restaurants across Europe in the next decade.

The fast-food company (WEN) said it's actively recruiting franchisee candidates in European markets with local expertise and a proven track record. The company is aiming to start opening new restaurants in 2025.

The company re-entered the U.K. market in 2021 and now expects to see up to 50 new restaurants in that market by year-end, growing to 400 over time.

"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," said E. J. Wunch, president of international for Wendy's.

The stock was slightly higher premarket but has fallen 19% in the year to date, while the S&P 500 has gained 16.8%.

-Ciara Linnane

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07-09-24 0840ET

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