Core Insights - The Wendy's Company reported third-quarter results that met expectations, highlighting strong international sales growth of 8.6% and the opening of 54 new restaurants globally [1][11] - U.S. comparable sales at company-operated restaurants outperformed the system by 4%, driven by operational excellence and the successful launch of new chicken tenders [2][11] - The company is implementing Project Fresh, a comprehensive turnaround plan focused on brand revitalization and operational excellence [2] Operational Highlights - Systemwide sales growth for the third quarter was 1.8%, with U.S. sales declining by 4.4% and international sales growing by 8.6% [2][11] - Same-restaurant sales growth was 0.2% in the U.S. and 3.0% internationally for the third quarter [2] - The total number of restaurants increased to 7,363, with 54 new openings in the third quarter [11] Financial Highlights - Total revenues for the third quarter decreased by 3.0% to $549.5 million, while adjusted revenues were nearly flat at $442.5 million [4][11] - Net income fell to $44.3 million, a decrease of 11.8%, and adjusted EBITDA increased by 2.1% to $138.0 million [4][11] - Reported diluted earnings per share were $0.23, with adjusted earnings per share decreasing by 4.0% to $0.24 [4][11] Cash Flow and Shareholder Returns - Cash flow from operations was $275.3 million, while free cash flow decreased to $195.6 million [4][11] - The company returned $40.7 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases [11][16] - A quarterly dividend of $0.14 per share was declared, payable on December 15, 2025 [16] 2025 Outlook - The company reaffirmed its global systemwide sales growth outlook of -5.0% to -3.0% and adjusted EBITDA expectations of $505 to $525 million [17] - Free cash flow expectations were raised to $195 to $210 million, reflecting a positive adjustment in capital expenditures [18]

Core Points - KFC is celebrating National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day on November 9 with a nationwide free Chicken Sandwich offer and a one-day pop-up restaurant in NYC called 'Sundays By KFC' [1][5] - The promotion includes a free Chicken Sandwich (Classic or Spicy) with any $1+ purchase for KFC Reward members from November 7–9 [2][6] - KFC is launching a "Size Matters Tour" with 13 stops in major cities, offering free Chicken Sandwiches to highlight the size difference compared to competitors [3][4] Company Initiatives - The 'Sundays By KFC' pop-up will provide an elevated dining experience in NYC, featuring free Chicken Sandwiches served tableside and exclusive menu items like a handcrafted Dirty Soda [5][6] - The Size Matters Tour will take place in cities such as Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Austin, allowing fans to sample KFC's Classic Chicken Sandwich [4][6] - KFC's marketing strategy emphasizes the availability of their Chicken Sandwiches seven days a week, contrasting with competitors who close on Sundays [2][3] Marketing Strategy - KFC's Chief Marketing Officer, Melissa Cash, stated that the timing of National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day on a Sunday is an opportunity for KFC to stand out [2][11] - The promotional activities aim to enhance customer engagement and brand loyalty through unique experiences and offers [1][5] - The campaign is designed to leverage social media and direct customer interactions to boost brand visibility and sales [9][10]

Group 1 - The Wendy's Company will release its third quarter 2025 results on November 7 before market opens [1] - A conference call will be held on the same day at 8:30 a.m. ET, with a webcast available on the Investor Relations website [1] - The conference call can be accessed by telephone for domestic and international callers, with a replay available later [1] Group 2 - Wendy's operates over 7,000 restaurants globally and employs hundreds of thousands of people [2] - The company is known for its Fresh Famous Food, including made-to-order square hamburgers and popular menu items like the Spicy Chicken Sandwich and Frosty dessert [2] - Wendy's supports the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, aiming to increase adoptions from North America's foster care system [2]

Core Viewpoint - The Wendy's Company reported a decline in overall systemwide sales for the second quarter of 2025, primarily due to lower same-restaurant sales in the U.S., while the international segment showed strong growth. Operational Highlights - The company opened 44 new restaurants in the second quarter, totaling 118 new openings in the first half of 2025 [2] - International systemwide sales grew by 8.7%, while U.S. systemwide sales declined by 3.3% [2][5] - Same-restaurant sales growth in the U.S. was down 3.6%, compared to a 1.8% increase in the international segment [2][5] - The total restaurant count at the end of the quarter was 7,334, with 5,967 in the U.S. and 1,367 internationally [2] Financial Highlights - Total revenues for the second quarter were $560.9 million, a decrease of 1.7% from the previous year [4] - Adjusted revenues were $449.6 million, down 1.3% year-over-year [4] - U.S. Company-operated restaurant margin decreased to 16.2%, down from 16.5% [4][7] - Operating profit increased to $104.3 million, up 4.8% from the previous year [4][10] - Net income for the quarter was $55.1 million, a slight increase of 0.9% [4][11] - Reported diluted earnings per share were $0.29, reflecting a 7.4% increase [4][13] Cash Flow and Shareholder Returns - Cash flow from operations was $146.0 million, a 0.3% increase year-over-year [4] - The company returned $88.7 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases [9] - The company repurchased 4.8 million shares for $61.9 million in the second quarter [15] 2025 Outlook - The company reaffirmed its global net unit growth target of 2-3% and capital expenditures between $165 million and $175 million [16] - The updated expectations for global systemwide sales growth are now between -5.0% to -3.0% [16] - Adjusted earnings per share are expected to be between $0.82 and $0.89, down from previous estimates [16]

Industry Trend - US chains added over 70 new spicy dishes to their menus this spring and summer [1] - Restaurants are modifying established dishes with spice to attract more customers [2] - Spice is particularly popular with Gen Z and Gen Alpha, and on social media platforms [3] Market Analysis - Adding spicy options is a strategy to entice more customers with something new [1] - Modifying dishes with spice is not expensive but has a potentially big impact on customer acquisition [2]

Core Insights - Wendy's Company aims to accelerate global net unit growth, targeting 2,000 international restaurants by 2028, with 70% of this growth expected to occur outside the United States [1][4] Expansion in Italy - Wendy's has entered into an exclusive franchise agreement with Your Food S.R.L to develop 170 new restaurants in Italy by 2035, marking a significant step in European expansion [2] - The first two Wendy's locations in Italy are set to open in Milan by mid-2026, establishing a foundation for long-term growth in the region [2] Expansion in Armenia - An exclusive franchise agreement has been signed with Wen Restaurant LLC to develop 20 new Wendy's restaurants in Armenia by 2030, enhancing the brand's presence in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region [3] - The first location in Armenia is expected to open in Yerevan's city center, reflecting a commitment to redefining the quick service restaurant experience in the country [3] Leadership Statements - E.J. Wunsch, President of International at Wendy's, emphasized the success of the accelerated growth strategy and the brand's strong positioning for international scaling [4] - Mario Resca, Chairman of Your Food S.R.L, expressed pride in partnering with Wendy's to introduce a new quick service restaurant standard in Italy [4] - Hrant Grigoryan, CEO of Wen Restaurant LLC, highlighted the introduction of Wendy's fresh, made-to-order menu in Armenia, aiming to set a new standard in the region [4][8] Company Overview - Wendy's Company operates over 7,000 restaurants globally and is committed to delivering fresh, high-quality food, including its signature square hamburgers and other popular menu items [5]

Group 1 - The Wendy's Company will release its second quarter 2025 results on August 8, 2025, before market opens [1] - A conference call will be held on the same day at 8:30 a.m. ET, with a webcast available on the Company's Investor Relations website [1] - The conference call can be accessed by telephone for domestic and international callers, with a replay available on the Investor Relations website [1] Group 2 - Wendy's operates over 7,000 restaurants worldwide and employs hundreds of thousands of people [2] - The company is known for its fresh, made-to-order square hamburgers and popular menu items like the Spicy Chicken Sandwich and Frosty dessert [2] - Wendy's supports the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, aiming to increase adoptions from North America's foster care system [2]

Core Points - Kirk Tanner, President and CEO of Wendy's, is leaving to become the President and CEO of The Hershey Company, effective July 18, 2025 [1] - Ken Cook, the current CFO, has been appointed as Interim CEO while the Board searches for a permanent replacement [2] - The Board expresses confidence in Ken Cook and the senior leadership team to continue executing the company's growth strategy [3] Leadership Changes - Kirk Tanner's departure is acknowledged by the Board, which wishes him well in his new role at Hershey [3] - Ken Cook has a strong background, having spent 20 years at UPS, and has played a significant role in developing Wendy's long-term growth strategy [2] - Bradley G. Peltz has been elected to the Board, replacing Matthew H. Peltz, who resigned to focus on other commitments [3] Strategic Focus - Ken Cook emphasizes the commitment to executing strategic priorities such as providing fresh food, enhancing customer experience, and accelerating global net unit growth [3] - The company is set to release its second quarter 2025 results on August 8, 2025, indicating ongoing transparency and communication with stakeholders [3]

Core Insights - Wendy's has launched a limited-time collaboration with Takis, introducing the Takis Fuego Meal featuring a Takis Fuego Chicken Sandwich and Fuego Fries, available in U.S. restaurants from June 20 and in Canada from June 30 [1][2] Group 1: Product Details - The Takis Fuego Chicken Sandwich includes a Spicy Chicken filet topped with crushed Takis Fuego chips, Chili Lime Sauce, creamy corn spread, and cheddar cheese sauce, creating a spicy and savory flavor profile [2] - Fuego Fries are made from Wendy's classic Hot & Crispy Fries, tossed in a tangy chili lime seasoning, and served in a custom tear-away bag for easy access [2] - The Takis Fuego Meal also includes a bag of Takis Fuego chips, available only while supplies last [2][7] Group 2: Marketing and Promotion - Wendy's Chief Marketing Officer emphasized the collaboration as a way to engage consumers' passion for flavor, highlighting the partnership with Takis as a strategic move to enhance their menu offerings [3] - An in-app game called Spice Invasion will be available from June 20 to July 20, allowing users to earn points and win prizes, including a grand prize of $10,000 [3][8] - Takis' U.S. Senior Director of Marketing expressed excitement about the collaboration, aiming to deliver a unique and intense flavor experience for fans [4] Group 3: Company Background - Wendy's operates over 7,000 restaurants globally and is known for its commitment to fresh food and popular menu items like the Spicy Chicken Sandwich [5] - Takis is a leading brand under Barcel USA, part of Grupo Bimbo, which is recognized for its intense snack offerings and has a strong market presence in the U.S. [6]

Core Insights - The Wendy's Company reported a decline in total revenues and net income for the first quarter of 2025, primarily due to lower sales in U.S. Company-operated restaurants and decreased franchise royalty revenue [5][8][12] - The company achieved systemwide sales growth of 8.9% in its International segment, while U.S. systemwide sales declined by 2.6% [2][9] - Wendy's added 68 net new restaurants globally and aims for a full-year net unit growth of 2-3% [2][9] Operational Highlights - Systemwide sales growth for the first quarter of 2025 was -1.1% globally, with U.S. same-restaurant sales down by 2.8% and International same-restaurant sales up by 2.3% [7][9] - Total systemwide sales reached $3.4 billion, a decrease of 1.1% compared to the previous year [9] - The company increased its global digital sales mix to a record 20.3% [9] Financial Performance - Total revenues for the first quarter of 2025 were $523.5 million, down 2.1% from $534.8 million in the same period of 2024 [5][9] - Net income decreased to $39.2 million, a decline of 6.7% from $42.0 million year-over-year [5][12] - Adjusted EBITDA fell to $124.5 million, down 2.6% from $127.8 million in the prior year [5][13] Cost and Expenses - U.S. Company-operated restaurant margin decreased to 14.8%, down 0.5% from the previous year, primarily due to commodity inflation and labor rate inflation [5][10] - General and administrative expenses increased by 6.9% to $68.2 million, attributed to higher employee compensation and benefits [5][11] Shareholder Returns - The company returned $173.5 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases [9] - A quarterly cash dividend of $0.14 per share was declared, payable on June 16, 2025 [14] Future Outlook - The company updated its full-year 2025 outlook to reflect the current consumer environment, maintaining a focus on strategic priorities [2][9] - Capital expenditures are projected to be between $100 million and $110 million, with adjusted earnings per share expected to range from $0.92 to $0.98 [9][19]