USA – The largest QSR franchisee, Flynn Group, has purchased 32 Wendy’s outlets in the US, bringing its total Wendy’s franchise count to 309.
The newly acquired units are situated around Indianapolis, marking Flynn’s first Wendy’s operations in this market, where it already manages Applebee’s and Taco Bell locations.
Flynn Group has expanded its Wendy’s portfolio significantly in 2024, acquiring or opening 116 locations. This includes the purchase of 83 stores in New Jersey and Pennsylvania earlier in the year.
The company now owns approximately 5% of Wendy’s U.S. locations, along with master franchise rights for Wendy’s in Australia and New Zealand.
Since entering Wendy’s system in 2021, Flynn has emerged as a key franchisee for the brand.
Wendy’s has been actively encouraging franchisees to invest in new units, bolstering its efforts with several development incentives.
According to its franchise disclosure document (FDD), Wendy’s franchisees will begin a new renovation cycle in 2025.
Current options for remodeling include full overhauls or a lower-cost “Refresh Lite” package, aimed at improving low-volume stores.
Renovation costs range from US$150,000 to more than US$2.5 million, depending on the extent of upgrades and reimaging.
Additionally, Wendy’s is prioritizing the construction of its Global Next Gen stores, which feature updated interiors and advanced kitchen equipment.
All new builds in the U.S. are required to incorporate elements of this prototype.
Larger, well-capitalized operators like Flynn Group are positioned to take on such projects more efficiently than smaller franchisees, who may struggle with temporary operational disruptions.
Flynn Group operates over 2,900 locations across six restaurant brands and one gym chain, providing significant resources and capital to support Wendy’s expansion goals.
Its scale aligns with Wendy’s vision for growth and modernization. Similarly, another major franchisee, Delight Group, recently announced plans to acquire 65 additional Wendy’s locations.
Beyond Wendy’s, Flynn Group has continued expanding its portfolio in other segments.
In September, it acquired 13 Panera restaurants in Virginia, marking its first entry into the Commonwealth with the bakery-café chain.
Earlier in April, Flynn purchased 26 Applebee’s units in Florida and Georgia and unveiled plans to build 25 more. This strategic growth underscores Flynn’s commitment to scaling operations across its diverse portfolio.
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