It’s Official: Wendy’s® Arrives in Romania
Franchisee Targets First Five Restaurant Opens in 2025, with Combined Business Investment Plans Exceeding $200 Million
Wendy’s®, one of the world's most iconic and recognized global quick-service restaurant (QSR) brands, is officially bringing its square hamburgers made with fresh, never frozen beef, and chicken sandwiches and nuggets, and cool, creamy Frosty® treats to Romania. The brand has confirmed its market entry through a franchise partnership with JKC Capital, a Canadian entrepreneurship firm.
Romanian customers will soon get a taste of Wendy’s famous menu as the first two restaurants open in the first half of the year. Collectively across their portfolio, JKC Capital plans to invest more than $200 million in Romania and create approximately 1,500 jobs over the next decade.
Globally known for its made-to-order menu, localized product offerings, and bold social media presence, Wendy’s is ready to shake up the Romanian fast-food scene with its fresh, famous food and unmistakable brand personality.
“This launch marks a significant milestone as the brand enters this dynamic market which offers significant growth potential. Romania has a strong food heritage, and we believe Wendy’s will offer local consumers an unforgettable culinary experience with fresh ingredients and high-quality standards.” stated John Chayka, Chief Executive Officer of JKC Capital.
“We are confident in our organization’s long-term success, capabilities to build strong local partnerships, and track record of contributing to community development. We look forward to bringing more Wendy’s to more people across the country and the region,” declared Kathryn Chayka, Operating Partner of JKC Capital.
“Wendy’s is unlocking new opportunities for the brand across Europe. Loved worldwide for our fresh, famous food, we are delighted to introduce Wendy’s to Romanian consumers and brand fans alike. Together with a proven and highly experienced partner like JKC Capital, who shares our passion for the Wendy’s business, we are building a high performing and differentiated QSR brand in every market we enter.” stated Michael Clarke, Managing Director, Wendy’s Europe.
Romania’s Appetite for Fast Food: A Market on the Rise
A market research study conducted by the company* found that Wendy’s is highly anticipated by Romanians, particularly among younger consumers, ranking as the second most sought-after international fast-food brand.
The study also found that fast-food brands are highly sought after in Romania, with 94% of Romanians reporting that they consume fast food. Among them, 33% eat fast food at least once a week, while 39% indulge a few times a month. On average, Romanians consume fast food about once per week (3.9 times per month), with younger consumers under 27 leading the trend at 1.3 times per week.
Fresh, Famous Food, Made Right, with 100% Romanian Beef and Chicken
The new Wendy’s restaurants will serve 100% fresh Romanian beef, staying true to the brand’s global mantra: globally great, locally even better. Additionally, Wendy’s will serve 100% Romanian chicken, using only whole chicken breast that’s cut, not minced, for its iconic menu items like the Spicy Chicken Sandwich, nuggets, and strips. This commitment helps to ensure premium quality and unbeatable taste in every bite.
Wendy’s is also known for its fully customizable menu, allowing Romanian customers to personalize their meals by adding or removing ingredients to match their dietary needs and taste preferences.
"At JKC, we are committed to delivering exceptional food and experiences that bring customers back time and again. We see tremendous potential for growth in Romania along with an opportunity to further our presence in the quick-service restaurant industry. We are excited about the long-term value this market offers for us and the Wendy’s brand,” stated Radu Bolohan, Vice President at JKC Capital.
Local Operations: A Strong Franchise Partner
JKC Capital, Wendy’s franchise partner in Romania, has a team with strong international experience in restaurant operations. The company owns and manages JKC Restaurants, Canada’s fastest-growing family-owned restaurant business, founded in 2015 by Kathryn and John Chayka. JKC Restaurants is Wendy’s largest franchisee in Canada, with 61 Wendy’s restaurants in its portfolio. To spearhead Wendy’s expansion into Romania, JKC Capital has partnered with Radu Bolohan, who now serves as Vice President of JKC Capital, bringing his expertise in investment and strategic development.
Further details on restaurant locations and grand opening events will be announced soon as Wendy’s prepares for its highly anticipated debut in Romania.
*Research done by MKOR Consulting, relevant nation-wide, conducted in February 2025.