Flynn Group Expands Wendy’s Holdings with Acquisition of 83 New Locations, Strengthening Its Position as Major Franchisee

Flynn Group, a prominent San Francisco-based franchise operator, has significantly expanded its footprint in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry by acquiring 83 additional Wendy’s locations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. This latest purchase elevates Flynn Group’s total Wendy’s holdings to 277 units across six states and Washington, D.C. The acquisition is part of the company’s broader strategy to enhance its presence in the QSR sector, with plans to add more Wendy’s restaurants both domestically and internationally.

Founded in 1999, Flynn Group operates more than 2,900 restaurants under various brands, including Applebee’s, Arby’s, Taco Bell, Panera Bread, Pizza Hut and Wendy’s, generating approximately $5 billion in annual sales. The company initially entered the Wendy’s system in 2021 with the acquisition of 190 units from a bankrupt operator. Despite initial resistance from Wendy’s, the brand has since embraced Flynn Group as a key franchisee.

In addition to expanding in the U.S., Flynn Group has made significant international investments. In 2023, the company secured a master franchise agreement to develop 200 Wendy’s locations in Australia over the next decade. It also acquired Wendy’s New Zealand earlier this year, becoming the sole franchisee for the brand in both countries. The group’s Wendy’s business will continue to be managed by Brand President Rasheeda Clark, who has been instrumental in driving growth and operational excellence since joining in 2022.

Flynn Group’s aggressive expansion strategy reflects its commitment to scaling its Wendy’s operations amid industry challenges. Despite a broader downturn in QSR traffic, Flynn Group’s Wendy’s locations have maintained strong sales and profitability, underscoring the brand’s resilience and the effectiveness of the group’s strategic focus on quick-service restaurants.

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