Wendy's Closes Nearly 300 U.S. Restaurants
Wendy's has closed over 240 U.S. restaurants in the first half of 2026, with analysts warning that more closures are likely due to declining sales and ineffective promotions.
Fast-food chain Wendy's has shut down over 240 restaurants in the United States during the first half of 2026, leaving approximately 5,700 locations operational nationwide. This follows the bankruptcy filing of Meritage Hospitality Group, one of Wendy's largest franchisees, which plans to close at least 41 of its outlets.
Industry analysts, including John Gordon of Pacific Management Consulting Group, anticipate further closures. Gordon attributes the trend to weak sales, noting that Wendy's has experienced six consecutive quarters of same-store sales declines and has consistently ranked among the bottom five brands in weekly sales performance for over a year.
Wendy's has contested the specifics of Meritage Hospitality Group's situation, citing a prior termination of the franchise agreement. However, a company spokesperson stated that Wendy's collaborates closely with franchisees facing difficulties to improve restaurant performance and ensure long-term growth.
The company plans to provide further details on its strategy during its third-quarter earnings call in early November. The significant number of closures raises questions about Wendy's market position and future trajectory in the U.S. fast-food landscape.