Wendy's plans to open 1,000 new restaurants globally by 2028

DUBLIN, Ohio - Wendy's is planning a big expansion of its restaurants across the U.S. and globally. 

The Dublin, Ohio-based fast food chain announced its growth strategy last week during its 2025 Investor Day presentation.

Wendy’s plans to open 1,000 new locations by 2028 

What we know:

Wendy’s announced that it’s planning to open 1,000 new restaurants worldwide by 2028. It added that the company is both investing in new locations globally and new technology "that will enhance the customer experience and increase restaurant profitability." 

What we don't know:

Restaurant Business Magazine reported that 350 of the new restaurants planned will open in the U.S., but the locations were not shared by the company. 

Dig deeper:

Wendy’s has been making progress toward expanding the brand's global presence. Last month, the company celebrated its 500th restaurant opening in the Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa region. It also recently opened its 160th restaurant in India, and the first of 200 planned restaurants in Australia. New restaurants in Europe – specifically in Romania, Scotland, and Ireland – are also all set to open in 2025.

By the numbers:

With the additional 1,000 new restaurants, Wendy’s said it’s targeting to have between 8,100 and 8,300 total locations globally by 2028. There are currently more than 7,200 restaurants worldwide. 

What they're saying:

"The Wendy's brand has tremendous strength, and we will unlock its full potential, scaling our system to match the power of our brand," Kirk Tanner, Wendy’s president and CEO, said in a statement. 

Big picture view:

The fast-food market has faced challenges in recent years, including sales declines amid cost-conscious consumers facing higher prices. Restaurants have responded by offering value menu items and limited-time offerings to attract customers. 

In the U.S. at least, Wendy’s also noted the shrinking fast-food burger market and said it believes the company has an opportunity to take advantage by adding more restaurants and building more sales within those restaurants. McDonald’s, Burger King, Hardee’s and other chains have closed units in recent years, according to Restaurant Business magazine. 

In the U.S., Wendy’s said in its presentation that it currently has one restaurant for every 56,000 people. This is compared to its "largest competitors," which have one restaurant for every 36,000 people.