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Wendy's named former Potbelly CEO Robert Wright to lead the burger chain as it battles weak sales, falling traffic, and growing pressure to revive its brand.

Wendy's has named former Potbelly CEO Bob Wright as the company's latest chief executive. The Financial Times reported earlier this month that Nelson Peltz's Trian Fund Management is seeking funding to take Wendy's private.

Wright was most recently CEO of sandwich chain Potbelly, overseeing its roughly $566 million sale to convenience-store operator RaceTrac last year.

DUBLIN, Ohio, May 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Wendy's Company (Nasdaq: WEN) ("Wendy's" or the "Company") today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Robert D. "Bob" Wright as Wendy's President and Chief Executive Officer, effective May 21, 2026.

Fans are invited to dress up as Wendy's iconic logo to compete for grand prize of free Dave's Single hamburgers for a year DUBLIN, Ohio, May 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- WHAT: To celebrate World Redhead Day on Tuesday, May 26, Wendy's is honoring its redheaded roots by calling on brand fans to join a look-alike contest in the heart of New York City. Everyone is welcome to join the fun and show up as your best version of Wendy – from natural red hues and pigtails to wigs, freckles and the iconic blue and white collared dress.

Wendy's U.S. sales are falling sharply, down 7.8% in the first quarter of 2026. International sales are a bright spot for Wendy's and grew 6% systemwide in the first quarter.

Wendy's Company (WEN) remains a Strong Buy, supported by robust cash flow, a high and sustainable dividend yield, and significant turnaround potential. WEN is executing Project Fresh, closing underperforming US restaurants, expanding internationally, and recently announcing a deal for up to 1,000 new units in China. Despite macro headwinds and high interest rates, WEN's manageable debt, and disciplined capital allocation underpin its resilience.

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.

New seasonal lineup highlights fresh ingredients and bold flavours that Wendy's fans love New seasonal lineup highlights fresh ingredients and bold flavours that Wendy's fans love