Wendy's Past Earnings Performance
Past criteria checks 1/6
Wendy's's earnings have been declining at an average annual rate of -0%, while the Hospitality industry saw earnings growing at 33.9% annually. Revenues have been growing at an average rate of 4% per year. Wendy's's return on equity is 128.6%, and it has net margins of 6.8%.
Key information
-0.0047%
Earnings growth rate
2.81%
EPS growth rate
| Hospitality Industry Growth | 19.52% |
| Revenue growth rate | 3.95% |
| Return on equity | 128.56% |
| Net Margin | 6.77% |
| Last Earnings Update | 29 Mar 2026 |
Recent past performance updates
Recent updates
Seeking Alpha • 10h
Wendy's: Nelson Peltz Wants Another Bite
Summary Wendy's faces weak U.S. traffic, margin compression, and underperformance versus peers despite new menu launches and value initiatives. Free cash flow and EBITDA are declining, but dividends remain well-covered; leverage is elevated at ~4.9x EBITDA, with refinancing risk looming post-2028. Trian's potential take-private bid could value WEN at $9.50–$11.90 per share (16–45% upside); standalone fair value is $8–$8.75. I rate WEN a 'Hold' given limited operational upside, but see embedded optionality from a possible Trian deal and a nearly 7% yield. Read the full article on Seeking Alpha
Narrative Update • Apr 30
WEN: Refocused Marketing And Menu Execution Will Support Turnaround Potential
Wendy's analyst price target has been trimmed by about $0.17, reflecting analysts' updated assumptions for slightly softer revenue and profit margins, while they continue to factor in a relatively steady future P/E multiple around 19x. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research on Wendy's centers on how quickly the business can stabilize same store sales, improve unit economics, and execute a turnaround plan that justifies current valuation multiples.
Narrative Update • Apr 14
WEN: Weak Comps And Rebuild Risks Will Pressure 2026 Earnings
The analyst price target for Wendy's has been lowered modestly to reflect a reduced fair value estimate of about $5.00 per share. Analysts are factoring in softer revenue growth assumptions, slightly tighter profit margins, and a somewhat higher future P/E expectation, alongside concerns around unit economics, capital needs, and the pace of comparable sales improvement.
Narrative Update • Mar 31
WEN: Refocused Quality Messaging And Value Menu Will Drive Turnaround Potential
Analysts have trimmed Wendy's implied fair value to about $7.98 per share from roughly $9.90. This reflects lower price targets across the Street as they weigh weaker margins, mixed same store sales trends, capital needs and what many describe as a challenging turnaround and operating backdrop.Narrative Update • Mar 17
WEN: Project Fresh And Value Offers Will Support Turnaround Potential
Wendy's analyst price target has been cut as the fair value estimate moved from about $14.92 to $11.08. Analysts cited weaker profit expectations, pressured unit economics, and cautious views on comparable sales and 2026 guidance across recent research updates.Narrative Update • Mar 03
WEN: Weak Comps And Price War Will Keep 2026 Earnings Under Pressure
Our updated narrative on Wendy's reflects a lower fair value estimate of $5.05 per share, down from $6.00, as analysts trim price targets across the board into a $6 to $10 range on concerns around challenged comps, unit economics, capital needs, and a tougher quick service backdrop, even as some still see room for a longer term operational turnaround. Analyst Commentary Street research on Wendy's has turned more cautious, with a series of lower price targets clustering in a roughly US$6 to US$10 range and a mix of Neutral, Hold, Equal Weight, Market Perform and Underperform ratings.Narrative Update • Feb 17
WEN: Prolonged Price War Will Pressure Margins And Stall 2026 Earnings Turnaround
Narrative Update The analyst price target for Wendy's has been reduced to $6 from $7 as analysts factor in weaker profit margins, more cautious long term growth assumptions, and ongoing competitive pressure in quick service restaurants. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research around Wendy's has leaned cautious, with several bearish analysts cutting price targets and flagging execution and growth risks tied to the latest Q4 results and 2026 guidance.Narrative Update • Feb 03
WEN: Project Fresh And Value Menu Focus Will Support Future Performance
Narrative update The analyst price target for Wendy's has been reduced by about $0.35 to $9.90. Analysts are incorporating a softer outlook for revenue growth and margins, reflecting a more challenging quick service environment and differing views on the company's ability to maintain market share against larger burger chains.Narrative Update • Jan 19
WEN: Project Fresh And Value Offers Will Support Earnings Quality
Analysts have nudged their fair value estimate for Wendy's slightly lower to about $14.92 from about $15.05, reflecting a series of reduced price targets across the Street as they factor in a tougher quick service backdrop, expectations for a restaurant price war, and more cautious earnings assumptions. Analyst Commentary Across recent research, the tone around Wendy's has shifted more cautious as firms trim price targets into a tougher quick service backdrop and potential price competition.Narrative Update • Jan 05
WEN: Project Fresh Execution Will Support Earnings Quality In Tough Burger Competition
Analysts have trimmed their fair value estimate for Wendy's to about $15.05 from roughly $15.96, reflecting lower Street price targets in the $9 to $11 range as they balance choppy sales trends, a tougher competitive backdrop, and updated expectations for revenue growth, margins, and future P/E. Analyst Commentary Street research on Wendy's has tilted more cautious on price targets, but the tone is not uniformly negative.Narrative Update • Dec 20
WEN: Same Store Sales Slowdown Will Pressure Earnings And Leadership Confidence
We are lowering our Wendy's fair value estimate by $3 to $7 per share as analysts trim price targets in response to a tougher competitive backdrop, softer same store sales expectations, and execution concerns around strategy and leadership. Analyst Commentary Bearish analysts have broadly reset expectations for Wendy's, cutting price targets into the high single digits and low teens while emphasizing a tougher operating and competitive environment.Narrative Update • Dec 06
WEN Project Fresh And Menu Focus Will Drive Future Performance Improvement
The analyst price target for Wendy's has been modestly reduced from $10.38 to $10.25 per share, as analysts factor in a wave of Street target cuts tied to softer same store sales expectations, rising cost pressures, and a tougher competitive backdrop, despite pockets of operational outperformance. Analyst Commentary Street research remains broadly cautious on Wendy's, with most targets moving toward the single digit range as analysts recalibrate expectations for growth, margins, and competitive positioning.Narrative Update • Nov 21
WEN: Project Fresh And Cost Discipline Will Drive Improved Performance Ahead
Wendy's analyst price target was revised downward from approximately $11.13 to $10.38. Analysts cite softer industry conditions, choppy sales trends, and increased operational challenges as the reasons for the revision.Narrative Update • Nov 06
WEN: Favorable Cost Management Will Support Rebound as Consumer Trends Stabilize
Wendy's analyst price target has been revised downward to $11.13 from $11.36. Analysts cite a cautious sector outlook, slowing consumer demand, and ongoing challenges impacting near-term restaurant performance.Narrative Update • Oct 22
Analyst Commentary Highlights Cautious Outlook for Wendy's as Valuation and Price Targets Decline
Wendy's fair value estimate has been reduced from $11.86 to $11.36 per share, as analysts cite a series of recent price target cuts resulting from choppy sales trends, competitive pressures, and ongoing leadership and marketing concerns. Analyst Commentary Recent analyst assessments of Wendy's have highlighted both potential positives and ongoing challenges for the company.Narrative Update • Aug 11
Digital Platforms And International Deals Will Unlock Future Value
Wendy's fair value estimate was reduced from $13.38 to $12.38, primarily reflecting weaker revenue growth and modestly lower net profit margin expectations. What's in the News Lowered 2025 global systemwide sales growth guidance to (5.0)% to (3.0)% from prior range of (2.0)% to flat.Analysis Article • Jul 14
The Return Trends At Wendy's (NASDAQ:WEN) Look Promising
What are the early trends we should look for to identify a stock that could multiply in value over the long term...Analysis Article • May 21
Wendy's' (NASDAQ:WEN) Dividend Is Being Reduced To $0.14
The Wendy's Company ( NASDAQ:WEN ) is reducing its dividend to $0.14 on the 16th of Junewhich is 44% less than last...Analysis Article • May 05
The Wendy's Company Just Missed EPS By 6.4%: Here's What Analysts Think Will Happen Next
The first-quarter results for The Wendy's Company ( NASDAQ:WEN ) were released last week, making it a good time to...Seeking Alpha • Apr 28
Wendy's: A Work-In-Progress
Summary Wendy’s posted solid Q4 results, with U.S. same-restaurant sales growing 4.1%, outperforming McDonald’s and Burger King in a tough market. The company’s strategic focus on digital innovation, breakfast expansion, and store optimization is showing early signs of success. Shares look cheap on valuation, trading at 12.7x forward earnings and just 7x price-to-cash-flow — a steep discount to major QSR peers. Competitive pressures, slowing U.S. momentum, and a skeptical market suggest Wendy’s still has more to prove before it becomes a must-own stock again. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Apr 22
Wendy's: Not Quite Appetizing Enough To Buy But Worth Keeping An Eye On
Summary Economic uncertainty and inflation may drive consumers to value-oriented industries like fast food, potentially benefiting chains like Wendy’s. Wendy’s has shown resilience with strong same-store sales growth and ambitious international expansion plans, but high debt and flat EPS growth are concerns. Wendy’s stock is currently a hold, but could become a buy if share prices drop or the company demonstrates improved growth. Despite economic turbulence, Wendy’s could serve as a safe haven due to its value offerings and local sourcing of ingredients. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaAnalysis Article • Apr 21
The Wendy's Company (NASDAQ:WEN) Doing What It Can To Lift Shares
The Wendy's Company's ( NASDAQ:WEN ) price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 12.8x might make it look like a buy right...Analysis Article • Apr 04
We Think Wendy's (NASDAQ:WEN) Is Taking Some Risk With Its Debt
David Iben put it well when he said, 'Volatility is not a risk we care about. What we care about is avoiding the...Analysis Article • Mar 18
Wendy's (NASDAQ:WEN) Is Looking To Continue Growing Its Returns On Capital
What are the early trends we should look for to identify a stock that could multiply in value over the long term...Seeking Alpha • Mar 07
Wendy's New Focus On Growth Is International
Summary Wendy’s has shifted focus towards international growth, planning to expand from 1,300 to 2,000 locations outside the US by 2028. The dividend was cut to a more sustainable 67¢ in 2025, with a payout ratio of 50%-60%, aiming for long-term value return. Despite lower 2025 guidance, Wendy’s aims for substantial growth, targeting $650-$700 million adjusted EBITDA and 8,300 units by 2028. Upgraded from hold to buy due to realistic growth prospects, though caution is advised given fast food sector uncertainties. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaAnalysis Article • Jan 17
Sentiment Still Eluding The Wendy's Company (NASDAQ:WEN)
When close to half the companies in the United States have price-to-earnings ratios (or "P/E's") above 19x, you may...Analysis Article • Dec 19
We Think Wendy's (NASDAQ:WEN) Is Taking Some Risk With Its Debt
Some say volatility, rather than debt, is the best way to think about risk as an investor, but Warren Buffett famously...Analysis Article • Dec 04
Wendy's (NASDAQ:WEN) Might Have The Makings Of A Multi-Bagger
There are a few key trends to look for if we want to identify the next multi-bagger. Firstly, we'll want to see a...Seeking Alpha • Nov 27
Fast-Food Chain Wendy's Outlook For Investors Is Bleak
Summary Continued deep-discounted value meal deals by competitors could have a negative impact on Wendy's. Massive stock repurchases and high dividend have had a negative impact on the company's balance sheet. RFK Jr. as head of the Health and Human Services Department could negatively impact the restaurant and food industry. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaAnalysis Article • Nov 19
Wendy's (NASDAQ:WEN) Is Due To Pay A Dividend Of $0.25
The board of The Wendy's Company ( NASDAQ:WEN ) has announced that it will pay a dividend of $0.25 per share on the...Seeking Alpha • Nov 04
Wendy's: Unit Pruning Doesn't Tickle '70/30 Expansion'
Summary Q3 Performance Under Pressure: Wendy's Biggie Bag faced stiff competition from promotions like McDonald's $5 Meal Deal, impacting traffic but aligning with Wendy's long-term focus on value. Breakfast Growth Amidst Industry Decline: Wendy's breakfast segment continued to expand, contrasting with industry-wide breakfast traffic declines, giving it a key edge over other restaurants. Strategic Closures and Net Unit Growth: Wendy's plans to close 140 U.S. locations with low AUVs but will still see net unit growth of 2% for FY 2024. Valuation and Upside Potential: With a target price of around $25, Wendy's appears undervalued compared to peers based on P/E and EV/EBITDA metrics, reinforcing a 'Buy' recommendation. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaAnalysis Article • Nov 03
Wendy's (NASDAQ:WEN) Is Paying Out A Dividend Of $0.25
The Wendy's Company ( NASDAQ:WEN ) will pay a dividend of $0.25 on the 16th of December. This means the annual payment...Revenue & Expenses Breakdown
Revenue & Expenses Breakdown
How Wendy's makes and spends money. Based on latest reported earnings, on an LTM basis.
Earnings and Revenue History
| Date | Revenue | Earnings | G+A Expenses | R&D Expenses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 29 Mar 26 | 2,194 | 149 | 257 | 0 |
| 28 Dec 25 | 2,177 | 165 | 253 | 0 |
| 28 Sep 25 | 2,208 | 186 | 253 | 0 |
| 29 Jun 25 | 2,225 | 192 | 258 | 0 |
| 30 Mar 25 | 2,235 | 192 | 260 | 0 |
| 29 Dec 24 | 2,246 | 194 | 255 | 0 |
| 29 Sep 24 | 2,213 | 194 | 254 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 24 | 2,197 | 202 | 250 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 24 | 2,188 | 207 | 251 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 23 | 2,182 | 204 | 250 | 0 |
| 01 Oct 23 | 2,177 | 199 | 253 | 0 |
| 02 Jul 23 | 2,159 | 191 | 256 | 0 |
| 02 Apr 23 | 2,136 | 180 | 255 | 0 |
| 01 Jan 23 | 2,096 | 177 | 255 | 0 |
| 02 Oct 22 | 2,032 | 188 | 251 | 0 |
| 03 Jul 22 | 1,970 | 179 | 251 | 0 |
| 03 Apr 22 | 1,925 | 196 | 253 | 0 |
| 02 Jan 22 | 1,897 | 200 | 243 | 0 |
| 03 Oct 21 | 1,898 | 187 | 238 | 0 |
| 04 Jul 21 | 1,880 | 186 | 222 | 0 |
| 04 Apr 21 | 1,789 | 145 | 208 | 0 |
| 03 Jan 21 | 1,734 | 118 | 207 | 0 |
| 27 Sep 20 | 1,687 | 106 | 202 | 0 |
| 28 Jun 20 | 1,672 | 112 | 203 | 0 |
| 29 Mar 20 | 1,705 | 119 | 205 | 0 |
| 29 Dec 19 | 1,709 | 137 | 200 | 0 |
| 29 Sep 19 | 1,680 | 129 | 192 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 19 | 1,642 | 474 | 190 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 19 | 1,618 | 472 | 189 | 0 |
| 30 Dec 18 | 1,590 | 460 | 190 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 18 | 1,501 | 601 | 196 | 0 |
| 01 Jul 18 | 1,409 | 224 | 202 | 0 |
| 01 Apr 18 | 1,318 | 192 | 203 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 17 | 1,223 | 194 | 203 | 0 |
| 01 Oct 17 | 1,224 | 64 | 214 | 0 |
| 02 Jul 17 | 1,280 | 98 | 221 | 0 |
| 02 Apr 17 | 1,342 | 127 | 233 | 0 |
| 01 Jan 17 | 1,435 | 130 | 237 | 0 |
| 02 Oct 16 | 1,590 | 189 | 223 | 0 |
| 03 Jul 16 | 1,690 | 149 | 241 | 0 |
| 03 Apr 16 | 1,797 | 147 | 252 | 0 |
| 03 Jan 16 | 1,870 | 140 | 257 | 0 |
| 27 Sep 15 | 1,893 | 74 | 287 | 0 |
| 28 Jun 15 | 1,925 | 87 | 290 | 0 |
Quality Earnings: WEN has high quality earnings.
Growing Profit Margin: WEN's current net profit margins (6.8%) are lower than last year (8.6%).
Free Cash Flow vs Earnings Analysis
Past Earnings Growth Analysis
Earnings Trend: WEN's earnings have declined by 0% per year over the past 5 years.
Accelerating Growth: WEN's has had negative earnings growth over the past year, so it can't be compared to its 5-year average.
Earnings vs Industry: WEN had negative earnings growth (-22.5%) over the past year, making it difficult to compare to the Hospitality industry average (21.3%).
Return on Equity
High ROE: Whilst WEN's Return on Equity (128.56%) is outstanding, this metric is skewed due to their high level of debt.
Return on Assets
Return on Capital Employed
Discover strong past performing companies
Company Analysis and Financial Data Status
| Data | Last Updated (UTC time) |
|---|---|
| Company Analysis | 2026/05/14 21:23 |
| End of Day Share Price | 2026/05/14 00:00 |
| Earnings | 2026/03/29 |
| Annual Earnings | 2025/12/28 |
Data Sources
The data used in our company analysis is from S&P Global Market Intelligence LLC. The following data is used in our analysis model to generate this report. Data is normalised which can introduce a delay from the source being available.
| Package | Data | Timeframe | Example US Source * |
|---|---|---|---|
| Company Financials | 10 years |
| |
| Analyst Consensus Estimates | +3 years |
|
|
| Market Prices | 30 years |
| |
| Ownership | 10 years |
| |
| Management | 10 years |
| |
| Key Developments | 10 years |
|
* Example for US securities, for non-US equivalent regulatory forms and sources are used.
Unless specified all financial data is based on a yearly period but updated quarterly. This is known as Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) or Last Twelve Month (LTM) Data. Learn more.
Analysis Model and Snowflake
Details of the analysis model used to generate this report is available on our Github page, we also have guides on how to use our reports and tutorials on Youtube.
Learn about the world class team who designed and built the Simply Wall St analysis model.
Industry and Sector Metrics
Our industry and section metrics are calculated every 6 hours by Simply Wall St, details of our process are available on Github.
Analyst Sources
The Wendy's Company is covered by 48 analysts. 22 of those analysts submitted the estimates of revenue or earnings used as inputs to our report. Analysts submissions are updated throughout the day.
| Analyst | Institution |
|---|---|
| John Staszak | Argus Research Company |
| Jeffrey Bernstein | Barclays |
| Jeffrey Bernstein | Barclays |