Wendy’s: What’s Really Behind the 400-Basis-Point Same-Restaurant Sales Outperformance at Company Stores?

The Wendy’s Company recently delivered its fiscal 2025 third-quarter earnings results, which reflected a blend of challenges and strategic initiatives aimed at revitalizing the brand and driving long-term growth. The global system-wide sales declined by 2.6%, predominantly due to a 4.7% drop in U.S. same-restaurant sales amidst heightened industry competition and economic pressures on consumers, particularly those with lower incomes. Despite these challenges, Wendy’s international business posted a strong performance, showcasing 8.6% growth in system-wide sales and delivering positive same-restaurant sales across all regions.