Wendy's eyeing Europe: New market opens on the Old Continent

The American fast food chain Wendy's plans to expand into Europe. A few years ago, it returned to the United Kingdom and is now looking for franchisees in other countries, speaking about expanding its operations on the continent.

Wendy's has been operating since 1969 and is known for its distinctive square hamburgers. The first restaurant, featuring a logo with a smiling, red-haired girl with pigtails, opened in Columbus, Ohio. After over 50 years, the company aims to expand its operations in Europe.

Wendy's returned to the United Kingdom in 2021 and signed two franchise agreements in Romania and Ireland. These agreements are expected to facilitate opening new locations in 2025, with hundreds more anticipated over the next decade.

The company announced it actively seeks franchisees in other European markets, including Poland and the Czech Republic. Candidates for this role should demonstrate extensive operational experience, knowledge of the local market, and a documented history of dynamic brand growth.

- 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 - says E. J. Wunsch, president of the Ohio-based network.

And he adds: - It's an exciting time to be with the Wendy's team in Europe. Brand fans and customers continue to ask us, "Where is Wendy's opening next?" We are ready to answer the demand by bringing more Wendy's to more people – putting our fresh, high-quality and delicious food into the hands of European consumers where they live, work and play

Currently, the American company has 7,100 restaurants in over 30 countries, primarily in the USA and Canada. Its headquarters is located in Dublin, Ohio.