Outside of the front of a Wendy's in Canada
International Franchising

Join the Wendy’s® Family and Grow With Us Around the Globe.

Our vision is to become the world’s most thriving and beloved restaurant brand – and we are well on our way. With more than 7,000 restaurant locations in more than 30 markets and U.S. territories, we are rapidly expanding internationally to bring more Wendy’s to more people across the globe.

 

We are focused on building lasting relationships with franchisees who want to grow with us, share our values and reflect the communities in which we operate. We are seeking world-class franchise partners with a passion for fueling global growth to scale Wendy’s presence internationally.

 

As a franchisee, you will be backed by an iconic, global restaurant brand with more than 50 years of success in the global quick service restaurant industry with our wide variety of modern restaurant designs and flexible asset types to fit any international trade area. Ultimately, we know our brand’s success depends on our franchisees’ success, and we’ll be with you at every turn, starting from day one.

 

You will receive support from our world-class Restaurant Support Center team, with access to proven playbooks, training and tools that are essential to successfully running Wendy’s restaurants. You will also benefit from Wendy’s beloved marketing and menu innovation, best-in-class innovation, global supply chain network and valued partnerships with some of the world’s most reputable and recognizable brands.

 

Are you ready to join us? Reach out to us directly at internationalfranchising@wendys.com.

General Manager Christina Montoya outside of her New Albany Wendy's
We Want You!

We are seeking prospective franchisees across the globe, preferably who:

  • Are interested in multi-unit or master development opportunities through the development of new restaurants to quickly achieve scale in the market
  • Are knowledgeable about the local operating environment with a proven track record of success
  • Have restaurant and/or hospitality experience (preferably quick service restaurant experience) with existing infrastructure and/or a willingness to invest
  • Are passionate with a strong willingness to learn the Wendy's economic model, a growth-driven mindset, and strong corporate responsibility
  • Have access to levels of capital needed to develop new restaurants based on the size of the opportunity in the area of interest with strong financial performance and liquidity
International Priority Markets

Wendy's has potential trade areas all around the world. Check out where we are looking to grow!

Wendy's employee smiling and holding balloons in both hands
Global Growth Success Stories
Wendy's First Global Next Gen Restaurant in Mexico

Wendy’s Franchisee, Alfredo Abraham, owner of ABMO Operadora, brings the first Global Next Gen restaurant design to the Merida, Yucatan community.

Learn More >

 

 

Opening Day outside of Wendy's in Merida, Yucatan with customers walking around
Next Generation of International Franchisees

View a story from the next generation of Wendy’s International Franchisees.
 

Watch Video >

Family eating
A Design Solution for Every Opportunity

Discover Wendy's first-ever pre-fabricated container restaurant in Trinidad and Tobago, showcasing cutting-edge design and construction techniques that halved construction time.

Watch Video >
 

A Wendy's restaurant made out of shipping containers
Photo of George in a suit

"We really love being able to grow a business with like-minded individuals who are passionate about serving high-quality food, delivering exceptional customer service and giving back to the community. Wendy’s has been so well-received by British customers. I mean, what's not to love, right? Real, fresh, craveable food, fast and friendly service and unbeatable value."

 

George Papadamou

Director of Square Burgers Ltd, UK

"We love growing with Wendy’s. It's a huge opportunity to be a part of such an iconic global brand that is continuously expanding its footprint around the world. I am looking forward to being joined by more and more entrepreneurs who are invested in building and fueling global growth for Wendy’s. We are going to be very successful. I'm sure about that."

 

Alfredo Abraham

Owner of ABMO Operadora, Mexico

Image of Alfredo Abraham
Candidate Requirements

How do I begin the franchise application process?

A potential applicant may express interest by reaching out directly to internationalfranchising@wendys.com.

Where is Wendy’s currently seeking new franchisees internationally?

For interest in specific international markets, please refer to our International Priority Markets list.

Do I need previous restaurant experience to become a franchisee?

Wendy’s is looking for prospective franchisees who have restaurant and/or hospitality experience (preferably quick service restaurant) with strong operational, administrative, and financial resources. However, previous restaurant experience is not required.

Financial Requirements

What are the minimum financial requirements to become a franchisee? 

Financial requirements vary by market and the size of the potential opportunity for your area of interest. Internationally, Wendy’s is looking for entities and individuals with financial resources to support multi-unit or master franchising opportunities.

Areas of Opportunity

What size opportunities are available to develop Wendy’s restaurants internationally?

The size of the opportunities available varies based on region of interest.

Process Timeline

What is the process to become a Wendy’s franchisee? 

Phase 1  Phase 2  Phase 3  Phase 4  Phase 5  Phase 6 
Introductory Call

Call with Wendy’s Leadership 

 

Application 

Field Assessment 

 

Due Diligence Checks

Business plan Presentation   Agreement Execution  Onboarding 

 

Note: The process to become a Wendy’s franchisee may vary per situation, but prospective franchisees will engage with us in a few introductory calls, submit an application, complete a few assessments, then discuss business plans and agreements.

How long does the process take to become a franchisee?

The timeline for the franchising approval process varies based on the market, local laws, and level of engagement from the applicant. The typical time frame ranges from 4 to 6 months from initial inquiry to agreement signature.

What support is provided?

Wendy’s has global and local functional teams ready to support new franchisees including but not limited to training, marketing, technology, design & construction, and operations. We are open to discussing needed levels of support on a case-by-case basis.

Own your opportunity today — get in touch!