While fast-food chain Wendy’s announced earlier this year that it would close potentially hundreds of locations this year, it is actually opening two new restaurants in Manatee County.
A new Wendy’s at 8101 Moccasin Wallow Road, Palmetto is now open, according to the chain’s website. Another new Wendy’s will open at 12035 U.S. 301 N., Parrish, together expected to create approximately 60 new jobs, according to real estate organization CASTO.
“We’re incredibly proud to collaborate with Wendy’s on these new Manatee County locations,” CASTO senior development manager Matt Drews said in a statement. “This partnership supports local economic growth, creates jobs, and delivers high-quality dining options to support the demand within the fast-growing community.”
What to expect from new Wendy’s locations in Manatee County
The new Wendy’s restaurants will feature the brand’s new reimage design, according to CASTO, showcasing a sleek, modern look with technology focused on convenience, speed and accuracy, with guests able to order through the Wendy’s app and delivery services as well as drive-thru or inside the restaurant.
Founded in 1969, Wendy’s is known for its square patty burgers including the Baconator, chicken dishes including the Spicy Chicken Sandwich, and the Frosty dessert, as well as salads and sides such as its baked potatoes and its chili.
How many locations is Wendy’s closing elsewhere?
On a Feb. 13 earnings call, Wendy’s interim CEO Ken Cook said the company had already closed 28 restaurants in the last quarter of 2025 as part of a planned 5% to 6% reduction.
With around 5,969 locations operating nationwide at the end of the year, this would amount to roughly 300 to 360 store closures total. A list of exact locations slated for closure has not been announced.
Along with the new locations, Wendy’s still has multiple restaurants currently open in Sarasota, Bradenton and elsewhere in Sarasota-Manatee including another, previously opened Palmetto location.
USA TODAY National Trending Reporter Mary Walrath-Holdridge contributed to this report.
Email entertainment reporter Jimmy Geurts at jimmy.geurts@heraldtribune.com. Support local journalism by subscribing.
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Wendy’s closing up to 6% of US locations but opening two near Sarasota
Reporting by Jimmy Geurts, Sarasota Herald-Tribune / Sarasota Herald-Tribune
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