Wendy’s to close about 300 more locations
The Hill
by The Associated PressFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Wendy’s, the popular fast-food chain, has announced plans to close approximately 300 U.S. locations over the next six months, representing between 5% and 6% of its total restaurants in the country. This move comes amid challenges faced by the company, including declining sales and increased competition from other fast-food chains. The closures are part of Wendy’s broader strategy to streamline operations and focus on more profitable locations while investing in remodels and menu innovations for remaining stores.
The decision to close nearly 300 restaurants highlights the ongoing struggles of the fast-food industry, which has been impacted by shifting consumer preferences, labor shortages, and rising costs. Wendy’s, like many other chains, is prioritizing efficiency and quality over quantity. The company has stated that these closures will allow it to better serve customers in locations with higher foot traffic and stronger sales performance. However, this strategic pivot is expected to result in significant changes for the communities where these restaurants currently operate.
From a political and economic perspective, Wendy’s closures underscore broader trends affecting the U.S. retail and foodservice sectors. The fast-food industry has long been a major employer, particularly in urban areas, and these closings could have ripple effects on local
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/14/2026