Core Insights - Wendy's has launched Project Fresh to enhance brand relevance and profitability across its restaurant network [1][2] - The initiative focuses on four main priorities: brand revitalization, system optimization, operational efficiency, and capital reallocation [1] Marketing and Strategy - The company aims to improve its marketing strategy, restaurant productivity, and operational standards while reallocating capital for profitable growth [2] - Consultant Creed UnCo, led by former Taco Bell CEO Greg Creed, will assist in the marketing transformation using data-driven customer segmentation [3] Operational Improvements - Wendy's plans to adjust labor models and operating hours, enhance in-store performance through digital tools and staff training, and improve overall restaurant efficiency [4] - The company will reduce investment in its Build to Suit program by $20 million in 2025, with further reductions planned for 2026, reallocating funds to technology and marketing initiatives [4] Leadership and Future Plans - The interim CEO and CFO, Ken Cook, emphasized the importance of quality, authenticity, and innovation in Wendy's brand, stating that Project Fresh aims to strengthen the foundation and modernize customer experience [5] - The board is actively searching for a permanent CEO, with the recruitment process expected to conclude by the end of 2025 [5] Upcoming Updates - Further updates on Project Fresh will be provided during Wendy's third-quarter results presentation scheduled for November 7, 2025 [6]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net revenue increase of 7.7%, driven by adjusted comparable store sales growth of 5.9% and growth from new store sales [25][32] - Adjusted EPS increased to $0.18 per share from $0.15 per share a year ago, reflecting nearly 20% growth in adjusted EPS compared to the prior year [30][32] - Adjusted operating income was $23.8 million compared to $14.1 million in the prior year, with adjusted operating margin increasing by 180 basis points to 4.9% [29][30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The managed care business delivered low double-digit comparable sales growth, supported by strong growth in both ticket and traffic [10][12] - The cash pay business continued to show positive comparable sales growth in the low single-digit range, driven by ticket increases [10][11] - The company opened eight new America's Best stores and closed five, ending the quarter with a total of 1,240 stores [26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a 6.6% increase in average ticket, reflecting the impact of price increases implemented in late 2024 and Q1 of this year [27] - The average plan for managed care consumers pays $130, with only 20% of frames priced over $99 at the end of last year, moving to approximately 40% this year [13][63] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on modernizing its branding and enhancing customer experience through a new CRM platform and refreshed marketing strategies [8][20] - The strategy involves heightened segmentation, personalization, and digitization in messaging, product assortment, and consumer experience [12][19] - The company is also expanding its addressable market by targeting progressive lens wearers and customers bringing prescriptions from other providers [13][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's transformation initiatives and brand revitalization, which are energizing associates and driving improvements in comparable sales [22][23] - The company raised its full-year outlook, expecting revenue between $1.93 billion and $1.97 billion, with adjusted comparable sales growth of 3% to 5% [33] - Management remains cautious about the macroeconomic environment and is waiting for proof points from new initiatives before incorporating potential benefits into guidance [34][94] Other Important Information - The company successfully implemented the first phase of its new ERP focused on finance and accounting [32] - The company is making significant progress in enhancing its digital marketing and omnichannel capabilities [19][20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about visibility in the number of new managed care plans? - Management noted that managed care growth was strong, with a mix around the 50% range, but did not provide specifics on individual plans [40] Question: Is there a line of sight on getting cash customer volumes positive? - Management indicated that the cash pay cohort is shrinking as more consumers transition to managed care, but they are focused on controlling their own destiny through marketing [42][44] Question: How much of America's Best comp growth came from price increases? - The majority of the growth was driven by price actions, with ongoing improvements in assortment contributing as well [49] Question: What is the margin outlook for the business? - Management emphasized that margin expansion is a primary focus, with actions being taken to improve operating margins [52] Question: Can you discuss the average price points for cash and managed care customers? - Managed care transactions generally have a higher average ticket than cash pay transactions, with ongoing efforts to attract higher quality frames for managed care consumers [56] Question: How is the company targeting the $75,000 to $100,000 income cohort? - The company is shifting its marketing strategy to be more targeted and personalized, moving from a one-to-many approach to a one-to-one marketing engine [70][71] Question: What are the goals for Eyeglass World in the context of the transformational strategy? - Eyeglass World has seen positive comps and is undergoing significant changes under new leadership, with a roadmap for improved results [77][80] Question: What is the strategy regarding store closures? - The company is rationalizing its store fleet based on profitability, demographics, and the ability to recruit doctors, with no significant changes expected in the pace of closures [86][88]