Document and Entity Information
Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Feb. 16, 2024 | Jun. 30, 2023 | |
Document and Entity Information [Abstract] | |||
Document Type | 10-K | ||
Document Annual Report | true | ||
Document Period End Date | Dec. 31, 2023 | ||
Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 | ||
Document Transition Report | false | ||
Entity File Number | 1-2207 | ||
Entity Registrant Name | THE WENDY’S COMPANY | ||
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE | ||
Entity Tax Identification Number | 38-0471180 | ||
Entity Address, Address Line One | One Dave Thomas Blvd. | ||
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 43017 | ||
Entity Address, City or Town | Dublin | ||
Entity Address, State or Province | OH | ||
City Area Code | 614 | ||
Local Phone Number | 764-3100 | ||
Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $.10 par value | ||
Trading Symbol | WEN | ||
Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ | ||
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer | Yes | ||
Entity Voluntary Filers | No | ||
Entity Central Index Key | 0000030697 | ||
Entity Current Reporting Status | Yes | ||
Entity Interactive Data Current | Yes | ||
Entity Filer Category | Large Accelerated Filer | ||
Entity Small Business | false | ||
Entity Emerging Growth Company | false | ||
Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2023 | ||
Document Fiscal Period Focus | FY | ||
Amendment Flag | false | ||
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag | true | ||
Document Financial Statement Error Correction [Flag] | false | ||
Entity Shell Company | false | ||
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 205,466,016 | ||
Entity Public Float | $ 3,731.2 | ||
Auditor Name | Deloitte & Touche LLP | ||
Auditor Location | Columbus, Ohio | ||
Auditor Firm ID | 34 |
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Current assets: | ||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 516,037 | $ 745,889 |
Restricted cash | 35,848 | 35,203 |
Accounts and notes receivable, net | 121,683 | 116,426 |
Inventories | 6,690 | 7,129 |
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 39,640 | 26,963 |
Advertising funds restricted assets | 117,755 | 126,673 |
Total current assets | 837,653 | 1,058,283 |
Properties | 891,080 | 895,778 |
Finance lease assets | 228,936 | 234,570 |
Operating lease assets | 705,615 | 754,498 |
Goodwill | 773,727 | 773,088 |
Other intangible assets | 1,219,129 | 1,248,800 |
Investments | 34,445 | 46,028 |
Net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases | 313,664 | 317,337 |
Other assets | 178,577 | 170,962 |
Total assets | 5,182,826 | 5,499,344 |
Current liabilities: | ||
Current portion of long-term debt | 29,250 | 29,250 |
Current portion of finance lease liabilities | 20,250 | 18,316 |
Current portion of operating lease liabilities | 49,353 | 48,120 |
Accounts payable | 27,370 | 43,996 |
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities | 135,149 | 116,010 |
Advertising funds restricted liabilities | 120,558 | 132,307 |
Total current liabilities | 381,930 | 387,999 |
Long-term debt | 2,732,814 | 2,822,196 |
Long-term finance lease liabilities | 568,767 | 571,877 |
Long-term operating lease liabilities | 739,340 | 792,051 |
Deferred income taxes | 270,353 | 270,421 |
Deferred franchise fees | 90,132 | 90,231 |
Other liabilities | 89,711 | 98,849 |
Total liabilities | 4,873,047 | 5,033,624 |
Commitments and contingencies | ||
Stockholders’ equity: | ||
Common stock, $0.10 par value; 1,500,000 shares authorized; 470,424 shares issued; 205,397 and 213,101 shares outstanding, respectively | 47,042 | 47,042 |
Additional paid-in capital | 2,960,035 | 2,937,885 |
Retained earnings | 409,863 | 414,749 |
Common stock held in treasury, at cost; 265,027 and 257,323 shares, respectively | (3,048,786) | (2,869,780) |
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (58,375) | (64,176) |
Total stockholders’ equity | 309,779 | 465,720 |
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity | $ 5,182,826 | $ 5,499,344 |
Common Stock, Par Value | $ 0.10 | $ 0.10 |
Common Stock, Shares Authorized | 1,500,000 | 1,500,000 |
Common Stock, Shares Issued | 470,424 | 470,424 |
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding | 205,397 | 213,101 |
Treasury Stock, Shares | 265,027 | 257,323 |
Consolidated Statements of Oper
Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Revenues: | |||
Revenues | $ 2,181,578 | $ 2,095,505 | $ 1,896,998 |
Costs and expenses: | |||
Cost of sales | 794,493 | 773,169 | 611,680 |
Franchise support and other costs | 57,243 | 46,736 | 42,900 |
Franchise rental expense | 125,371 | 124,083 | 132,411 |
Advertising funds expense | 428,003 | 430,760 | 411,751 |
General and administrative | 249,964 | 254,979 | 242,970 |
Depreciation and amortization (exclusive of amortization of cloud computing arrangements shown separately below) | 135,789 | 133,414 | 125,540 |
Amortization of cloud computing arrangements | 12,778 | 2,394 | 0 |
System optimization gains, net | (880) | (6,779) | (33,545) |
Reorganization and realignment costs | 9,200 | 698 | 8,548 |
Impairment of long-lived assets | 1,401 | 6,420 | 2,251 |
Other operating income, net | (13,768) | (23,683) | (14,468) |
Costs and expenses | 1,799,594 | 1,742,191 | 1,530,038 |
Operating profit | 381,984 | 353,314 | 366,960 |
Interest expense, net | (124,061) | (122,319) | (109,185) |
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt, net | 2,283 | 0 | (17,917) |
Investment (loss) income, net | (10,358) | 2,107 | 39 |
Other income, net | 29,570 | 10,403 | 681 |
Income before income taxes | 279,418 | 243,505 | 240,578 |
Provision for income taxes | (74,978) | (66,135) | (40,186) |
Net income | $ 204,440 | $ 177,370 | $ 200,392 |
Net income per share: | |||
Basic | $ 0.98 | $ 0.83 | $ 0.91 |
Diluted | $ 0.97 | $ 0.82 | $ 0.89 |
Sales | |||
Revenues: | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | $ 930,083 | $ 896,585 | $ 734,074 |
Franchise royalty revenue and fees | |||
Revenues: | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 592,331 | 558,235 | 536,748 |
Franchise Rental Income | |||
Revenues: | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 230,168 | 234,465 | 236,655 |
Advertising funds revenue | |||
Revenues: | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | $ 428,996 | $ 406,220 | $ 389,521 |
Consolidated Statements of Comp
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Net income | $ 204,440 | $ 177,370 | $ 200,392 |
Other comprehensive income (loss): | |||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | 5,801 | (15,976) | 1,441 |
Other comprehensive income (loss) | 5,801 | (15,976) | 1,441 |
Comprehensive income | $ 210,241 | $ 161,394 | $ 201,833 |
Consolidated Statements of Stoc
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Total | Common Stock | Additional Paid-In Capital | Retained Earnings | Common Stock Held in Treasury | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss |
Stockholders' Equity, beginning of period at Jan. 03, 2021 | $ 549,596 | $ 47,042 | $ 2,899,276 | $ 238,674 | $ (2,585,755) | $ (49,641) |
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity | ||||||
Net income | 200,392 | 0 | 0 | 200,392 | 0 | 0 |
Other comprehensive income (loss), net | 1,441 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1,441 |
Cash dividends | (94,846) | 0 | 0 | (94,846) | 0 | 0 |
Repurchases of common stock, including accelerated share repurchase | (267,808) | 0 | (18,750) | 0 | (249,058) | 0 |
Share-based compensation | 22,019 | 0 | 22,019 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Common stock issued upon exercises of stock options | 29,050 | 0 | 1,911 | 0 | 27,139 | 0 |
Common stock issued upon vesting of restricted shares | (3,738) | 0 | (6,023) | 0 | 2,285 | 0 |
Other | 299 | 0 | 200 | (22) | 121 | 0 |
Stockholders' Equity, end of period at Jan. 02, 2022 | 436,405 | 47,042 | 2,898,633 | 344,198 | (2,805,268) | (48,200) |
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity | ||||||
Net income | 177,370 | 0 | 0 | 177,370 | 0 | 0 |
Other comprehensive income (loss), net | (15,976) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | (15,976) |
Cash dividends | (106,779) | 0 | 0 | (106,779) | 0 | 0 |
Repurchases of common stock, including accelerated share repurchase | (51,950) | 0 | 18,750 | 0 | (70,700) | 0 |
Share-based compensation | 24,538 | 0 | 24,538 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Common stock issued upon exercises of stock options | 4,578 | 0 | 1,117 | 0 | 3,461 | 0 |
Common stock issued upon vesting of restricted shares | (2,881) | 0 | (5,363) | 0 | 2,482 | 0 |
Other | 415 | 0 | 210 | (40) | 245 | 0 |
Stockholders' Equity, end of period at Jan. 01, 2023 | 465,720 | 47,042 | 2,937,885 | 414,749 | (2,869,780) | (64,176) |
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity | ||||||
Net income | 204,440 | 0 | 0 | 204,440 | 0 | 0 |
Other comprehensive income (loss), net | 5,801 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5,801 |
Cash dividends | (209,253) | 0 | 0 | (209,253) | 0 | 0 |
Repurchases of common stock, including accelerated share repurchase | (191,871) | 0 | 0 | 0 | (191,871) | 0 |
Share-based compensation | 23,747 | 0 | 23,747 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Common stock issued upon exercises of stock options | 14,239 | 0 | 4,366 | 0 | 9,873 | 0 |
Common stock issued upon vesting of restricted shares | (3,445) | 0 | (6,193) | 0 | 2,748 | 0 |
Other | 401 | 0 | 230 | (73) | 244 | 0 |
Stockholders' Equity, end of period at Dec. 31, 2023 | $ 309,779 | $ 47,042 | $ 2,960,035 | $ 409,863 | $ (3,048,786) | $ (58,375) |
Consolidated Statements of Cash
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Cash flows from operating activities: | |||
Net income | $ 204,440 | $ 177,370 | $ 200,392 |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | |||
Depreciation and amortization (exclusive of amortization of cloud computing arrangements shown separately below) | 135,789 | 133,414 | 125,540 |
Amortization of cloud computing arrangements | 12,778 | 2,394 | 0 |
Share-based compensation | 23,747 | 24,538 | 22,019 |
Impairment of long-lived assets | 1,401 | 6,420 | 2,251 |
Deferred income tax | (807) | 4,305 | (13,781) |
Non-cash rental expense, net | 40,655 | 33,915 | 40,596 |
Change in operating lease liabilities | (47,212) | (45,682) | (45,606) |
Net receipt (recognition) of deferred vendor incentives | 1,034 | (1,060) | 715 |
System optimization gains, net | (880) | (6,779) | (33,545) |
Gain on sale of investments, net | (31) | 0 | (63) |
Distributions received from TimWen joint venture | 12,901 | 12,612 | 16,337 |
Equity in earnings in joint ventures, net | (10,819) | (9,422) | (11,203) |
Long-term debt related activities, net (see Note 20) | 5,320 | 7,762 | 24,758 |
Cloud computing arrangements expenditures | (32,902) | (30,220) | (14,086) |
Other, net | 22,883 | (4,554) | 844 |
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | |||
Accounts and notes receivable, net | 430 | (5,857) | (5,613) |
Inventories | 439 | (1,203) | (872) |
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | (672) | 6,769 | (3,396) |
Advertising funds restricted assets and liabilities | (18,210) | (30,503) | 11,519 |
Accounts payable | (8,826) | (1,533) | 7,586 |
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities | 3,958 | (12,782) | 21,380 |
Net cash provided by operating activities | 345,416 | 259,904 | 345,772 |
Cash flows from investing activities: | |||
Capital expenditures | (85,021) | (85,544) | (77,984) |
Franchise development fund | (7,951) | (3,605) | 0 |
Acquisitions | 0 | 0 | (123,069) |
Dispositions | 2,115 | 8,237 | 55,118 |
Proceeds from sale of investments | 31 | 0 | 63 |
Notes receivable, net | 4,280 | 3,136 | 1,203 |
Payments for investments | 0 | 0 | (10,000) |
Net cash used in investing activities | (86,546) | (77,776) | (154,669) |
Cash flows from financing activities: | |||
Proceeds from long-term debt | 0 | 500,000 | 1,100,000 |
Repayments of long-term debt | (94,702) | (26,750) | (970,344) |
Repayments of finance lease liabilities | (21,588) | (17,312) | (13,640) |
Deferred financing costs | 0 | (10,232) | (20,873) |
Repurchases of common stock, including accelerated share repurchase | (189,554) | (51,950) | (268,531) |
Dividends | (209,253) | (106,779) | (94,846) |
Proceeds from stock option exercises | 14,667 | 4,865 | 30,003 |
Payments related to tax withholding for share-based compensation | (3,873) | (3,168) | (4,511) |
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities | (504,303) | 288,674 | (242,742) |
Net cash (used in) provided by operations before effect of exchange rate changes on cash | (245,433) | 470,802 | (51,639) |
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash | 2,448 | (5,967) | 364 |
Net (decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | (242,985) | 464,835 | (51,275) |
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period | 831,801 | 366,966 | 418,241 |
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period | $ 588,816 | $ 831,801 | $ 366,966 |
Summary of Significant Accounti
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies | Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Corporate Structure The Wendy’s Company (“The Wendy’s Company” and, together with its subsidiaries, the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is the parent company of its 100% owned subsidiary holding company, Wendy’s Restaurants, LLC (“Wendy’s Restaurants”). Wendy’s Restaurants is the parent company of Wendy’s International, LLC and its subsidiaries (“Wendy’s”). Wendy’s franchises and operates Wendy’s quick-service restaurants specializing in hamburger sandwiches throughout the United States of America (“U.S.”) and in 32 foreign countries and U.S. territories. At December 31, 2023, Wendy’s operated and franchised 415 and 6,825 restaurants, respectively. The Company manages and internally reports its business in the following segments: (1) Wendy’s U.S., (2) Wendy’s International and (3) Global Real Estate & Development. See Note 26 for further information. Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and include all of the Company’s subsidiaries. We also consider for consolidation entities in which we have certain interests, where the controlling financial interest may be achieved through arrangements that do not involve voting interests. Such an entity, known as a variable interest entity (“VIE”), is required to be consolidated by its primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is the entity that possesses the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact its economic performance and has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that are significant to it. The principal entities in which we possess a variable interest include the Company’s national advertising funds for the U.S. and Canada (the “Advertising Funds”). All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates. Fiscal Year The Company’s fiscal reporting periods consist of 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Sunday closest to December 31 and are referred to herein as (1) “the year ended December 31, 2023” or “2023,” (2) “the year ended January 1, 2023” or “2022,” and (3) “the year ended January 2, 2022” or “2021,” all of which consisted of 52 weeks. All references to years, quarters and months relate to fiscal periods rather than calendar periods. Cash and Cash Equivalents All highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when acquired are considered cash equivalents. The Company’s cash and cash equivalents principally consist of cash in bank and money market mutual fund accounts and are primarily not in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured accounts. We believe that our vulnerability to risk concentrations in our cash equivalents is mitigated by (1) our policies restricting the eligibility, credit quality and concentration limits for our placements in cash equivalents and (2) insurance from the Securities Investor Protection Corporation of up to $500 per account, as well as supplemental private insurance coverage maintained by substantially all of our brokerage firms, to the extent our cash equivalents are held in brokerage accounts. Restricted Cash In accordance with the Company’s securitized financing facility, certain cash accounts have been established with the trustee for the benefit of the trustee and the noteholders and are restricted in their use. Such restricted cash primarily represents cash collections and cash reserves held by the trustee to be used for payments of principal, interest and commitment fees required for the Company’s senior secured notes. Restricted cash also includes cash collected by the Advertising Funds, usage of which is restricted for advertising activities and is included in “Advertising funds restricted assets.” Refer to Note 7 for further information. Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net Accounts and notes receivable, net, consist primarily of royalties, rents, property taxes and franchise fees due principally from franchisees, delivery-related receivables, credit card receivables, insurance receivables and refundable income taxes. Reserve estimates include consideration of the likelihood of default expected over the estimated life of the receivable. The Company periodically assesses the need for an allowance for doubtful accounts on its receivables based upon several key credit quality indicators such as outstanding past due balances, the financial strength of the obligor, the estimated fair value of any underlying collateral and agreement characteristics. We believe that our vulnerability to risk concentrations in our receivables is mitigated by (1) favorable historical collectability on past due balances, (2) recourse to the underlying collateral regarding sales-type and direct financing lease receivables, and (3) our expectations for fluctuations in general market conditions. Receivables are considered delinquent once they are contractually past due under the terms of the underlying agreements. See Note 7 for further information. Inventories The Company’s inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value, with cost determined in accordance with the first-in, first-out method and consist primarily of restaurant food items and paper supplies. Cloud Computing Arrangements (“CCA”) The Company capitalizes implementation costs associated with its CCA consistent with costs capitalized for internal-use software. Capitalized CCA implementation costs are included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets” and “Other assets.” The CCA implementation costs are amortized over the term of the related hosting agreement, including renewal periods that are reasonably certain to be exercised. Amortization expense of CCA implementation costs is recorded to “Amortization of cloud computing arrangements.” The CCA implementation costs are included within operating activities in the Company’s consolidated statements of cash flows. Properties and Depreciation and Amortization Properties are stated at cost, including capitalized internal costs of employees to the extent such employees are dedicated to specific restaurant construction projects, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization of properties is computed principally on the straight-line basis using the following estimated useful lives of the related major classes of properties: three three seven The Company reviews properties for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. If such review indicates an asset group may not be recoverable, an impairment loss is recognized for the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of an asset group to be held and used or over the fair value less cost to sell of an asset to be disposed. See “Impairment of Long-Lived Assets” below for further information. The Company classifies assets as held for sale and ceases depreciation of the assets when there is a plan for disposal of the assets and those assets meet the held for sale criteria. Assets held for sale are included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets” in the consolidated balance sheets. Goodwill Goodwill, representing the excess of the cost of an acquired entity over the fair value of the acquired net assets, is not amortized. Goodwill associated with our Company-operated restaurants is reduced as a result of restaurant dispositions based on the relative fair values and is included in the carrying value of the restaurant in determining the gain or loss on disposal. If a Company-operated restaurant is sold within two years of being acquired from a franchisee, the goodwill associated with the acquisition is written off in its entirety. Goodwill has been assigned to reporting units for purposes of impairment testing. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset may be impaired. Our annual impairment test of goodwill may be completed through a qualitative assessment to determine if the fair value of the reporting unit is more likely than not greater than the carrying amount. If we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment for any reporting units, or if a qualitative assessment indicates it is more likely than not that the estimated carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, we perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test. Under the quantitative test, the fair value of the reporting unit is compared with its carrying value (including goodwill). If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. Our critical estimates in this impairment test include future sales growth, operating profit, terminal value growth rates and the weighted average cost of capital (discount rate). We also utilize other key inputs such as income tax rates and capital expenditures to derive fair value. Our fair value estimates are subject to change as a result of many factors including, among others, any changes in our business plans, changing economic conditions and the competitive environment. Should actual cash flows and our future estimates vary adversely from those estimates we use, we may be required to recognize goodwill impairment charges in future years. Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Our long-lived assets include (1) properties and related definite-lived intangible assets (e.g., favorable leases) that are leased and/or subleased to franchisees, (2) Company-operated restaurant assets and related definite-lived intangible assets, which include reacquired rights under franchise agreements, and (3) finance and operating lease assets. We review our long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. We assess the recoverability of our long-lived assets by comparing the carrying amount of the asset group to future undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated through leases and/or subleases or by our individual Company-operated restaurants. If the carrying amount of the long-lived asset group is not recoverable on an undiscounted cash flow basis, then impairment is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds its fair value and is included in “Impairment of long-lived assets.” Our critical estimates in this review process include the anticipated future cash flows from leases and/or subleases or individual Company-operated restaurants, which is used in assessing the recoverability of the respective long-lived assets. Our fair value estimates are subject to change as a result of many factors including, among others, any changes in our business plans, changing economic conditions and the competitive environment. Should actual cash flows and our future estimates vary adversely from those estimates we used, we may be required to recognize additional impairment charges in future years. Other Intangible Assets Definite-lived intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis using the following estimated useful lives of the related classes of intangibles: for favorable leases, the terms of the respective leases, including periods covered by renewal options that the Company as lessor is reasonably certain the tenant will exercise; one two The Company reviews definite-lived intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the intangible asset may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment at least annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the assets may be impaired. Our annual impairment test for indefinite-lived intangible assets may be completed through a qualitative assessment to determine if the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets is more likely than not greater than the carrying amount. If we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment, or if a qualitative assessment indicates it is more likely than not that the estimated carrying value exceeds the fair value, we test for impairment using a quantitative process. If the Company determines that impairment of its intangible assets may exist, the amount of impairment loss is measured as the excess of carrying value over fair value. Our critical estimates in the determination of the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets include the anticipated future revenues of Company-operated and franchised restaurants and the resulting cash flows. Investments The Company has a 50% share in a partnership in a Canadian restaurant real estate joint venture (“TimWen”) with a subsidiary of Restaurant Brands International Inc., a quick-service restaurant company that owns the Tim Hortons ® brand (Tim Hortons is a registered trademark of Tim Hortons USA Inc.). In addition, the Company has a 20% share in a joint venture in Brazil (the “Brazil JV”). The Company has significant influence over these investees. Such investments are accounted for using the equity method, under which our results of operations include our share of the income (loss) of the investees in “Other operating income, net.” Cash distributions and dividends received that are determined to be returns of capital are recorded as a reduction of the carrying value of our investments and returns on our investments are recorded to “Investment (loss) income, net.” The difference between the carrying value of our TimWen equity investment and the underlying equity in the historical net assets of the investee is accounted for as if the investee were a consolidated subsidiary. Accordingly, the carrying value difference is amortized over the estimated lives of the assets of the investee to which such difference would have been allocated if the equity investment were a consolidated subsidiary. To the extent the carrying value difference represents goodwill, it is not amortized. Other investments in equity securities in which the Company does not have significant influence, and for which there is not a readily determinable fair value, are recorded at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for an identical or similar investment of the same issuer. Realized gains and losses are reported as income or loss in the period in which the securities are sold or otherwise disposed. Share-Based Compensation The Company has granted share-based compensation awards to certain employees under several equity plans (the “Equity Plans”). The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for an equity award, which include grants of employee stock options and restricted shares, based on the fair value of the award at the date of grant. Share-based compensation expense is recognized net of estimated forfeitures, determined based on historical experience. The Company recognizes share-based compensation expense over the requisite service period unless the awards are subject to performance conditions, in which case we recognize compensation expense over the requisite service period to the extent performance conditions are considered probable. The Company determines the grant date fair value of stock options using a Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model (the “Black-Scholes Model”). The grant date fair value of restricted share awards (“RSAs”), restricted share units (“RSUs”) and performance-based awards are determined using the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant, as set forth in the applicable plan document, unless the awards are subject to market conditions, in which case we use a Monte Carlo simulation model. The Monte Carlo simulation model utilizes multiple input variables to estimate the probability that market conditions will be achieved. Foreign Currency Translation The Company’s primary foreign operations are in Canada where the functional currency is the Canadian dollar. Financial statements of foreign subsidiaries are prepared in their functional currency and then translated into U.S. dollars. Assets and liabilities are translated at the exchange rate as of the balance sheet date and revenues, costs and expenses are translated at a monthly average exchange rate. Net gains or losses resulting from the translation are recorded to the “Foreign currency translation adjustment” component of “Accumulated other comprehensive loss.” Gains and losses arising from the impact of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on transactions in foreign currency are included in “General and administrative.” Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method. A deferred tax asset or liability is recognized whenever there are (1) future tax effects from temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and (2) operating loss, capital loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to the years in which those differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent the Company believes these assets will more likely than not be realized. In evaluating the realizability of deferred tax assets, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including the interaction and the timing of future reversals of existing temporary differences, projected future taxable income, recent operating results and tax-planning strategies. When considered necessary, a valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying amount of the deferred tax assets to their anticipated realizable value. The Company records uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two-step process whereby we first determine if it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. A tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is then measured for purposes of financial statement recognition as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon being effectively settled. Interest accrued for uncertain tax positions is charged to “Interest expense, net.” Penalties accrued for uncertain tax positions are charged to “General and administrative.” Restaurant Acquisitions and Dispositions The Company accounts for the acquisition of restaurants from franchisees using the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations. The acquisition method of accounting involves the allocation of the purchase price to the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. This allocation process requires the use of estimates and assumptions to derive fair values and to complete the allocation. The excess of the purchase price over the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed represents goodwill derived from the acquisition. See “Goodwill” above for further information. In connection with the sale of Company-operated restaurants to franchisees, the Company typically enters into several agreements, in addition to an asset purchase agreement, with franchisees including franchise, development, relationship and lease agreements. The Company typically sells restaurants’ cash, inventory and equipment and retains ownership or the leasehold interest to the real estate to lease and/or sublease to the franchisee. The Company has determined that its restaurant dispositions usually represent multiple-element arrangements, and as such, the cash consideration received is allocated to the separate elements based on their relative selling price. Cash consideration generally includes up-front consideration for the sale of the restaurants, technical assistance fees and development fees and future cash consideration for royalties and lease payments. The Company considers the future lease payments in allocating the initial cash consideration received. The Company obtains third-party evidence to estimate the relative selling price of the stated rent under the lease and/or sublease agreements which is primarily based upon comparable market rents. Based on the Company’s review of the third-party evidence, the Company records favorable or unfavorable lease assets/liabilities with a corresponding offset to the gain or loss on the sale of the restaurants. The cash consideration per restaurant for technical assistance fees and development fees is consistent with the amounts stated in the related franchise agreements which are charged for separate standalone arrangements. The Company recognizes the technical assistance and development fees over the contractual term of the franchise agreements. Future royalty income is also recognized in revenue as earned. See “Revenue Recognition” below for further information. Revenue Recognition “Sales” includes revenues recognized upon delivery of food to the customer at Company-operated restaurants. “Sales” excludes taxes collected from the Company’s customers. Revenue is recognized when the food is purchased by the customer, which is when our performance obligation is satisfied. “Sales” also includes income for gift cards. Gift card payments are recorded as deferred income when received and are recognized as revenue upon redemption. “Franchise royalty revenue and fees” includes royalties, new build technical assistance fees, renewal fees, franchisee-to- franchisee restaurant transfer (“Franchise Flip”) technical assistance fees, Franchise Flip advisory fees, development fees and information technology and other fees. Royalties from franchised restaurants are based on a percentage of sales of the franchised restaurant and are recognized as earned. New build technical assistance fees, renewal fees and Franchise Flip technical assistance fees are recorded as deferred revenue when received and recognized as revenue over the contractual term of the franchise agreements, once the restaurant has opened. Development fees are deferred when received, allocated to each agreed upon restaurant, and recognized as revenue over the contractual term of each respective franchise agreement, once the restaurant has opened. These franchise fees are considered highly dependent upon and interrelated with the franchise right granted in the franchise agreement. Franchise Flip advisory fees include valuation services and fees for selecting pre-approved buyers for Franchise Flips. Franchise Flip advisory fees are paid by the seller and are recognized as revenue at closing of the Franchise Flip transaction. Information technology and other fees are recognized as revenue as earned. “Franchise rental income” includes rental income from properties owned and leased by the Company and leased or subleased to franchisees. Rental income is recognized on a straight-line basis over the respective operating lease terms. Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts related to the leased and/or subleased properties are amortized to rental income on a straight-line basis over the remaining term of the leases. “Advertising funds revenue” includes contributions to the Advertising Funds by franchisees. Revenue related to these contributions is based on a percentage of sales of the franchised restaurants and is recognized as earned. Cost of Sales Cost of sales includes food and paper, restaurant labor and occupancy, advertising and other operating costs relating to Company-operated restaurants. Cost of sales excludes depreciation and amortization expense. Vendor Incentives The Company receives incentives from certain vendors. These incentives are recognized as earned and are classified as a reduction of “Cost of sales.” Advertising Costs Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included in “Cost of sales” and “Advertising funds expense.” Production costs of advertising are expensed when the advertisement is first released. Franchise Support and Other Costs The Company incurs costs to provide direct support services to our franchisees, as well as certain other direct and incremental costs to the Company’s franchise operations. These costs primarily relate to franchise development services, facilitating Franchise Flips and information technology services, which are charged to “Franchise support and other costs,” as incurred. Self-Insurance The Company is self-insured for most workers’ compensation losses and health care claims and purchases insurance for general liability and automotive liability losses, all subject to a $500 per occurrence retention or deductible limit. The Company provides for their estimated cost to settle both known claims and claims incurred but not yet reported. Liabilities associated with these claims are estimated, in part, by considering the frequency and severity of historical claims, both specific to us, as well as industry-wide loss experience and other actuarial assumptions. We determine our insurance obligations with the assistance of actuarial firms. Since there are many estimates and assumptions involved in recording insurance liabilities and in the case of workers’ compensation a significant period of time elapses before the ultimate resolution of claims, differences between actual future events and prior estimates and assumptions could result in adjustments to these liabilities. Leases Determination of Whether a Contract Contains a Lease The Company evaluates the contracts it enters into to determine whether such contracts contain leases. A contract contains a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of identified property, plant or equipment for a period of time in exchange for consideration. At commencement, contracts containing a lease are further evaluated for classification as an operating or finance lease where the Company is a lessee, or as an operating, sales-type or direct financing lease where the Company is a lessor, based on their terms. ROU Model and Determination of Lease Term The Company uses the right-of-use (“ROU”) model to account for leases where the Company is the lessee, which requires an entity to recognize a lease liability and ROU asset on the lease commencement date. A lease liability is measured equal to the present value of the remaining lease payments over the lease term and is discounted using the incremental borrowing rate, as the rate implicit in the Company’s leases is not readily determinable. The incremental borrowing rate is the rate of interest that the Company would have to pay to borrow, on a collateralized basis over a similar term, an amount equal to the lease payments in a similar economic environment. Lease payments include payments made before the commencement date and any residual value guarantees, if applicable. The initial ROU asset consists of the initial measurement of the lease liability, adjusted for any favorable or unfavorable terms for leases acquired from franchisees, as well as payments made before the commencement date, initial direct costs and lease incentives earned. When determining the lease term, the Company includes option periods that it is reasonably certain to exercise as failure to renew the lease would impose a significant economic detriment. For properties used for Company-operated restaurants, the primary economic detriment relates to the existence of unamortized leasehold improvements which might be impaired if we choose not to exercise the available renewal options. The lease term for properties leased or subleased to franchisees is determined based upon the economic detriment to the franchisee and includes consideration of the length of the franchise agreement and historical performance of the restaurant. Lease terms for real estate are generally initially between 15 and 20 years and, in most cases, provide for rent escalations and renewal options. Operating Leases For operating leases, minimum lease payments or receipts, including minimum scheduled rent increases, are recognized as rent expense where the Company is a lessee, or income where the Company is a lessor, as applicable, on a straight-line basis (“Straight-Line Rent”) over the applicable lease terms. There is a period under certain lease agreements referred to as a rent holiday (“Rent Holiday”) that generally begins on the possession date and ends on the rent commencement date. During a Rent Holiday, no cash rent payments are typically due under the terms of the lease; however, expense is recorded for that period on a straight-line basis. The excess of the Straight-Line Rent over the minimum rents paid is included in the ROU asset where the Company is a lessee. The excess of the Straight-Line Rent over the minimum rents received is recorded as a deferred lease asset and is included in “Other assets” where the Company is a lessor. Certain leases contain provisions, referred to as contingent rent (“Contingent Rent”), that require additional rental payments based upon restaurant sales volume. Contingent Rent is recognized each period as the liability is incurred or the asset is earned. Lease cost for operating leases includes the amortization of the ROU asset and interest expense related to the operating lease liability. Variable lease cost for operating leases includes Contingent Rent and payments for executory costs such as real estate taxes, insurance and common area maintenance, which are excluded from the measurement of the lease liability. Short-term lease cost for operating leases includes rental expense for leases with a term of less than 12 months. Lease costs are recorded in the consolidated statements of operations based on the nature of the underlying lease as follows: (1) rental expense related to leases for Company-operated restaurants is recorded to “Cost of sales,” (2) rental expense for leased properties that are subsequently subleased to franchisees is recorded to “Franchise rental expense” and (3) rental expense related to leases for corporate offices and equipment is recorded to “General and administrative.” Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts for operating leases where the Company is the lessor are recorded as components of “Other intangible assets” and “Other liabilities,” respectively. Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the leases. Rental income and favorable and unfavorable lease amortization for operating leases on properties leased or subleased to franchisees is recorded to “Franchise rental income.” Lessees’ variable payments to the Company for executory costs under operating leases are recognized on a gross basis as “Franchise rental income” with a corresponding expense recorded to “Franchise rental expense.” Finance Leases Lease cost for finance leases where the Company is the lessee includes the amortization of the ROU asset, which is amortized on a straight-line basis and recorded to “Depreciation and amortization (exclusive of amortization of cloud computing arrangements shown separately below),” and interest expense on the finance lease liability, which is calculated using the interest method and recorded to “Interest expense, net.” Finance lease ROU assets are amortized over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the terms of the respective leases, including periods covered by renewal options that the Company is reasonably certain of exercising. Sales-Type and Direct Financing Leases For sales-type and direct financing leases where the Company is the lessor, the Company records its investment in properties leased to franchisees on a net basis, which is comprised of the present value of the lease payments not yet received and the present value of the guaranteed and unguaranteed residual assets. The current and long-term portions of our net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases are included in “Accounts and notes rec |
Revenue (Notes)
Revenue (Notes) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Revenue [Abstract] | |
Revenue | Revenue Nature of Goods and Services The Company generates revenues from sales at Company-operated restaurants and earns royalties, fees and rental income from franchised restaurants. Revenues are recognized upon delivery of food to the customer at Company-operated restaurants or upon the fulfillment of terms outlined in the franchise agreement for franchised restaurants. The franchise agreement provides the franchisee the right to construct, own and operate a Wendy’s restaurant upon a site accepted by Wendy’s and to use the Wendy’s system in connection with the operation of the restaurant at that site. The franchise agreement generally provides for a 20-year term and a 10-year renewal subject to certain conditions. The initial term may be extended up to 25 years and the renewal extended up to 20 years for qualifying restaurants under certain new restaurant development and reimaging programs. The franchise agreement requires that the franchisee pay a royalty based on a percentage of sales at the franchised restaurant, as well as make contributions to the Advertising Funds based on a percentage of sales. Wendy’s may offer development incentive programs from time to time that provide for a discount or lesser royalty amount or Advertising Fund contribution for a limited period of time. The agreement also typically requires that the franchisee pay Wendy’s a technical assistance fee. The technical assistance fee is used to defray some of the costs to Wendy’s for start-up and transitional services related to new and existing franchisees acquiring restaurants and in the development and opening of new restaurants. The franchise agreement also requires that the franchisee pay an annual fee for technology services. The technology fee is a flat fee dependent on each restaurant’s sales. Wendy’s also enters into development agreements with certain franchisees. The development agreement generally provides the franchisee with the right to develop a specified number of new Wendy’s restaurants using the Image Activation design within a stated, non-exclusive territory for a specified period, subject to the franchisee meeting interim new restaurant development requirements. Wendy’s owns and leases sites from third parties, which it leases and/or subleases to franchisees. Noncancelable lease terms are generally initially between 15 and 20 years and, in most cases, provide for rent escalations and renewal options. The initial lease term for properties leased or subleased to franchisees is generally set to be coterminous with the initial 20-year term of the related franchise agreement and any renewal term is coterminous with the 10-year renewal term of the related franchise agreement. Royalties and contributions to the Advertising Funds are generally due within the month subsequent to which the revenue was generated through sales at the franchised restaurant. Technical assistance fees and renewal fees are generally due upon execution of the related franchise agreement. Annual technology fees are due in quarterly installments. Rental income is due in accordance with the terms of each lease, which is generally at the beginning of each month. Disaggregation of Revenue The following tables disaggregate revenue by segment and source for 2023, 2022 and 2021: Wendy’s U.S. Wendy’s International Global Real Estate & Development Total 2023 Sales at Company-operated restaurants $ 905,700 $ 24,383 $ — $ 930,083 Franchise royalty revenue 444,653 67,506 — 512,159 Franchise fees 68,749 6,406 5,017 80,172 Franchise rental income — — 230,168 230,168 Advertising funds revenue 396,743 32,253 — 428,996 Total revenues $ 1,815,845 $ 130,548 $ 235,185 $ 2,181,578 2022 Sales at Company-operated restaurants $ 882,684 $ 13,901 $ — $ 896,585 Franchise royalty revenue 423,955 61,533 — 485,488 Franchise fees 63,112 5,542 4,093 72,747 Franchise rental income — — 234,465 234,465 Advertising funds revenue 380,491 25,729 — 406,220 Total revenues $ 1,750,242 $ 106,705 $ 238,558 $ 2,095,505 2021 Sales at Company-operated restaurants $ 730,415 $ 3,659 $ — $ 734,074 Franchise royalty revenue 407,317 53,392 — 460,709 Franchise fees 64,170 5,391 6,478 76,039 Franchise rental income — — 236,655 236,655 Advertising funds revenue 365,594 23,927 — 389,521 Total revenues $ 1,567,496 $ 86,369 $ 243,133 $ 1,896,998 Contract Balances The following table provides information about receivables and contract liabilities (deferred franchise fees) from contracts with customers: Year End December 31, January 1, Receivables, which are included in “Accounts and notes receivable, net” (b) $ 55,293 $ 54,497 Receivables, which are included in “Advertising funds restricted assets” 76,838 70,422 Deferred franchise fees (c) 100,805 99,208 _______________ (a) Excludes funds collected from the sale of gift cards, which are primarily reimbursed to franchisees upon redemption at franchised restaurants and do not ultimately result in the recognition of revenue in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations. (b) Includes receivables related to “Sales” and “Franchise royalty revenue and fees.” (c) Deferred franchise fees are included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” and “Deferred franchise fees” and totaled $10,673 and $90,132, respectively, as of December 31, 2023, and $8,977 and $90,231, respectively, as of January 1, 2023. Significant changes in deferred franchise fees are as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Deferred franchise fees at beginning of period $ 99,208 $ 97,186 $ 97,785 Revenue recognized during the period (12,242) (11,567) (19,838) New deferrals due to cash received and other 13,839 13,589 19,239 Deferred franchise fees at end of period $ 100,805 $ 99,208 $ 97,186 Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees The following table reflects the estimated franchise fees to be recognized in the future related to performance obligations that are unsatisfied at the end of the period: Estimate for fiscal year: 2024 (a) $ 10,673 2025 6,483 2026 6,354 2027 6,255 2028 6,136 Thereafter 64,904 $ 100,805 _______________ (a) Includes development-related franchise fees expected to be recognized over a duration of one year or less. |
Acquisitions
Acquisitions | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Business Combinations [Abstract] | |
Acquisitions | (3) Acquisitions During 2021, the Company acquired 93 restaurants from a franchisee. The Company completed no significant acquisitions of restaurants from franchisees during 2023 or 2022. The Company did not incur any material acquisition-related costs associated with the acquisition in 2021 and such transaction was not significant to our consolidated financial statements. The table below presents the allocation of the total purchase price to the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed for restaurants acquired from a franchisee: Year Ended 2021 (a) Restaurants acquired from franchisee (b) 93 Total consideration paid, net of cash received $ 127,948 Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed: Properties 21,984 Acquired franchise rights 81,239 Finance lease assets 25,547 Operating lease assets 44,282 Finance lease liabilities (25,059) Operating lease liabilities (43,478) Other (9) Total identifiable net assets 104,506 Goodwill $ 23,442 _______________ (a) The fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed related to restaurants acquired in 2021 were provisional amounts as of January 2, 2022, pending final purchase accounting adjustments. The Company finalized the purchase price allocation during 2022, which resulted in an increase in cash received of $260. (b) Included two restaurants under construction and not operating as of January 2, 2022. NPC Quality Burgers, Inc. (“NPC”) As previously announced, NPC, formerly the Company’s largest franchisee, filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy in July 2020 and commenced a process to sell all or substantially all of its assets, including its interest in approximately 393 Wendy’s restaurants across eight different markets, pursuant to a court-approved auction process. On November 18, 2020, the Company submitted a consortium bid together with a group of pre-qualified franchisees to acquire NPC’s Wendy’s restaurants. Under the terms of the consortium bid, several existing and new franchisees would have been the ultimate purchasers of seven of the NPC markets, while the Company would have acquired one market. As part of the consortium bid, the Company submitted a deposit of $43,240. The deposit included $38,361 received from the group of prequalified franchisees, which was payable to the franchisees pending resolution of the bankruptcy sale process. During the three months ended April 4, 2021, following a court-approved mediation process, NPC and certain affiliates of Flynn Restaurant Group (“FRG”) and the Company entered into separate asset purchase agreements under which all of NPC’s Wendy’s restaurants were sold to Wendy’s approved franchisees. Under the transaction, FRG acquired approximately half of NPC’s Wendy’s restaurants in four markets, while several existing Wendy’s franchisees that were part of the Company’s consortium bid acquired the other half of NPC’s Wendy’s restaurants in the other four markets. The Company did not acquire any restaurants as part of this transaction. In addition, the deposits outstanding as of January 3, 2021 were settled during the three months ended April 4, 2021 upon resolution of the bankruptcy sale process. The net settlement of deposits of $4,879 is included in “Acquisitions” in the consolidated statements of cash flows. |
System Optimization Gains, Net
System Optimization Gains, Net | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
System optimization gains, net | |
System Optimization Gains, Net | Properties Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Land $ 373,634 $ 371,347 Buildings and improvements 519,244 510,685 Leasehold improvements 432,051 422,330 Office, restaurant and transportation equipment 344,623 314,223 1,669,552 1,618,585 Accumulated depreciation and amortization (778,472) (722,807) $ 891,080 $ 895,778 Depreciation and amortization expense related to properties was $70,108, $69,239 and $68,298 during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. |
System Optimization | |
System optimization gains, net | |
System Optimization Gains, Net | System Optimization Gains, Net The Company’s system optimization initiative included a shift from Company-operated restaurants to franchised restaurants over time, through acquisitions and dispositions, as well as facilitating Franchise Flips. As of December 31, 2023, Company-operated restaurant ownership was approximately 5% of the total system. While the Company has no plans to move its ownership away from approximately 5% of the total system, the Company expects to continue to optimize the Wendy’s system through Franchise Flips, as well as evaluating strategic acquisitions of franchised restaurants and strategic dispositions of Company-operated restaurants to existing and new franchisees, to further strengthen the franchisee base, drive new restaurant development and accelerate reimages. During 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company facilitated 99, 79 and 34 Franchise Flips, respectively. Additionally, during 2021, the Company completed the sale of 47 Company-operated restaurants in New York (including Manhattan) to franchisees and, during 2022, the Company completed the sale of one Company-operated restaurant to a franchisee. No Company-operated restaurants were sold to franchisees during 2023. Gains and losses recognized on dispositions are recorded to “System optimization gains, net” in our consolidated statements of operations. Costs related to acquisitions and dispositions under our system optimization initiative are recorded to “Reorganization and realignment costs,” which are further described in Note 5. All other costs incurred related to facilitating Franchise Flips are recorded to “Franchise support and other costs.” The following is a summary of the disposition activity recorded as a result of our system optimization initiative: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Number of restaurants sold to franchisees — 1 47 Proceeds from sales of restaurants (a) $ — $ 79 $ 50,518 Net assets sold (b) — (141) (16,939) Goodwill related to sales of restaurants — — (4,847) Net unfavorable leases (c) — (360) (2,939) Gain on sales-type leases — — 7,156 Other (d) — 6 (2,148) — (416) 30,801 Post-closing adjustments on sales of restaurants (e) (f) 858 2,877 1,218 Gain on sales of restaurants, net 858 2,461 32,019 Gain on sales of other assets, net (g) 22 4,318 1,526 System optimization gains, net $ 880 $ 6,779 $ 33,545 _______________ (a) In addition to the proceeds noted herein, the Company received cash proceeds of $378 and $39 during 2022 and 2021, respectively, related to a note receivable issued in connection with the sale of the Manhattan Company-operated restaurants. (b) Net assets sold consisted primarily of equipment. (c) During 2021, the Company recorded favorable lease assets of $3,799 and unfavorable lease liabilities of $6,738 as a result of leasing and/or subleasing land, buildings and/or leasehold improvements to franchisees, in connection with the sale of the New York Company-operated restaurants (including Manhattan). (d) 2021 includes a deferred gain of $3,500 as a result of certain contingencies related to the extension of lease terms. (e) 2021 includes a gain on sales-type leases of $1,625 and the write-off of certain lease assets of $927 as a result of an amendment to lease terms in connection with a Manhattan Company-operated restaurant previously sold to a franchisee. (f) 2023, 2022 and 2021 include the recognition of deferred gains of $858, $3,522 and $515, respectively, as a result of the resolution of certain contingencies related to the extension of lease terms for restaurants previously sold to franchisees. (g) During 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company received cash proceeds of $2,115, $7,780 and $4,561, respectively, primarily from the sale of surplus and other properties. Assets Held for Sale As of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, the Company had assets held for sale of $2,689 and $1,661, respectively, primarily consisting of surplus properties. Assets held for sale are included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets.” |
Reorganization and Realignment
Reorganization and Realignment Costs | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] | |
Reorganization and Realignment Costs | Reorganization and Realignment Costs The following is a summary of the initiatives included in “ Reorganization and realignment costs Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Organizational Redesign Plan $ 9,064 $ — $ — System optimization initiative 136 611 6,852 Other reorganization and realignment plans — 87 1,696 Reorganization and realignment costs $ 9,200 $ 698 $ 8,548 Organizational Redesign In February 2023, the Board of Directors approved a plan to redesign the Company’s organizational structure to better support the execution of the Company’s long-term growth strategy by maximizing organizational efficiency and streamlining decision making (the “Organizational Redesign Plan”). As a result of the Organizational Redesign Plan, the Company held its general and administrative expense in 2023 relatively flat compared with 2022. Additionally, in January 2024, the Board of Directors announced the appointment of Kirk Tanner as the Company’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective February 5, 2024. Mr. Tanner succeeded Todd A. Penegor, the Company’s previous President and Chief Executive Officer, who departed from the Company in February. As a result of the succession of the President and Chief Executive Officer, the Company now expects to incur total costs of approximately $17,000 to $19,000 related to the Organizational Redesign Plan. During 2023, the Company recognized costs totaling $9,064, which primarily included severance and related employee costs and share-based compensation. The Company expects to incur additional costs aggregating approximately $8,000 to $10,000, comprised of (1) severance and related employee costs of approximately $7,000, (2) share-based compensation of approximately $2,000 and (3) recruitment and relocation costs of approximately $500. The Company expects costs related to the Organizational Redesign Plan to continue into 2026. The following is a summary of the costs recorded as a result of the Organizational Redesign Plan: Year Ended 2023 Severance and related employee costs $ 6,243 Recruitment and relocation costs 554 Third-party and other costs 996 7,793 Share-based compensation (a) 1,271 Total organizational redesign $ 9,064 _______________ (a) Primarily represents the accelerated recognition of share-based compensation resulting from the termination of employees under the Organizational Redesign Plan. The table below presents a rollforward of our accruals for the Organizational Redesign Plan, which are included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” as of December 31, 2023. Balance January 1, 2023 Charges Payments Balance December 31, 2023 Severance and related employee costs $ — $ 6,243 $ (4,551) $ 1,692 Recruitment and relocation costs — 554 (554) — Third-party and other costs — 996 (996) — $ — $ 7,793 $ (6,101) $ 1,692 System Optimization Initiative The Company recognizes costs related to acquisitions and dispositions under its system optimization initiative. During 2023, the Company recognized costs totaling $136. During 2022, the Company recognized costs totaling $611, which were primarily comprised of professional fees and other costs associated with the Company’s acquisition of 93 franchise-operated restaurants in Florida during the fourth quarter of 2021. During 2021, the Company recognized costs totaling $6,852, which were primarily comprised of the write-off of certain lease assets, lease termination fees and transaction fees associated with the NPC bankruptcy sale process, as well as professional fees and transaction fees associated with the Company’s acquisition of 93 franchise-operated restaurants in Florida during the fourth quarter of 2021. See Note 3 for further information on the NPC bankruptcy sale process. The Company expects to recognize a gain of approximately $150, primarily related to the write-off of certain NPC-related lease liabilities upon final termination of the leases. As of December 31, 2023, January 1, 2023 and January 2, 2022 there were no accruals for our system optimization initiative. The following is a summary of the costs recorded as a result of our system optimization initiative: Year Ended Total Incurred Since Inception 2023 2022 2021 Severance and related employee costs $ — $ 4 $ 661 $ 18,902 Professional fees 3 395 1,570 24,075 Other (a) 73 145 1,765 7,836 76 544 3,996 50,813 Accelerated depreciation and amortization (b) — — — 25,398 NPC lease termination costs (c) 60 67 2,856 2,983 Share-based compensation (d) — — — 5,013 Total system optimization initiative $ 136 $ 611 $ 6,852 $ 84,207 _______________ (a) 2021 includes transaction fees of $1,350 associated with the NPC bankruptcy sale process. (b) Primarily includes accelerated amortization of previously acquired franchise rights related to the Company-operated restaurants in territories that have been sold to franchisees in connection with our system optimization initiative. (c) 2021 includes the write-off of lease assets of $1,376 and lease termination fees paid of $1,480. (d) Represents incremental share-based compensation resulting from the modification of stock options and performance-based awards in connection with the termination of employees under our system optimization initiative. Other Reorganization and Realignment |
Net Income Per Share
Net Income Per Share | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |
Net Income Per Share | Net Income Per Share The calculation of basic and diluted net income per share was as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Net income $ 204,440 $ 177,370 $ 200,392 Common stock: Weighted average basic shares outstanding 209,486 213,766 221,375 Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted shares 2,048 2,073 3,030 Weighted average diluted shares outstanding 211,534 215,839 224,405 Net income per share: Basic $ .98 $ .83 $ .91 Diluted $ .97 $ .82 $ .89 Basic net income per share for 2023, 2022 and 2021 was computed by dividing net income amounts by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding. Diluted net income per share was computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of basic shares outstanding plus the potential common share effect of dilutive stock options and restricted shares. We excluded potential common shares of 5,377, 4,443 and 2,404 for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, from our diluted net income per share calculation as they would have had anti-dilutive effects. |
Cash and Receivables
Cash and Receivables | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Cash and Receivables [Abstract] | |
Cash and Receivables | Cash and Receivables Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Cash and cash equivalents Cash $ 150,136 $ 185,207 Cash equivalents 365,901 560,682 516,037 745,889 Restricted cash Accounts held by trustee for the securitized financing facility 35,483 34,850 Other 365 353 35,848 35,203 Advertising Funds (a) 36,931 50,709 72,779 85,912 Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 588,816 $ 831,801 _______________ (a) Included in “Advertising funds restricted assets.” Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Gross Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Net Gross Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Net Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net Current Accounts receivable (a) $ 106,335 $ (1,538) $ 104,797 $ 100,270 $ (1,707) $ 98,563 Notes receivable from franchisees (b) (c) 18,035 (1,149) 16,886 22,503 (4,640) 17,863 $ 124,370 $ (2,687) $ 121,683 $ 122,773 $ (6,347) $ 116,426 Non-current (d) Notes receivable from franchisees (c) $ — $ — $ — $ 3,888 $ — $ 3,888 _______________ (a) Includes income tax refund receivables of $5,284 and $3,236 as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively. Additionally, includes receivables of $17,460 as of December 31, 2023 related to expected contributions from applicable insurance for legal settlements. See Note 11 for further information on our legal reserves. (b) Includes the current portion of sales-type and direct financing lease receivables of $10,779 and $8,263 as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively. See Note 19 for further information. Includes a note receivable from a franchisee in Indonesia of $394 and $1,153 as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively. (c) Includes notes receivable related to the Brazil JV, of which $6,837 and $13,087 are included in current notes receivable as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively, and $3,888 is included in non-current notes receivable as of January 1, 2023. As of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, the Company had reserves of $1,149 and $4,640, respectively, on the loans outstanding related to the Brazil JV. See Note 8 for further information. (d) Included in “Other assets.” The following is a rollforward of the allowance for doubtful accounts: Accounts Receivable Notes Receivable Total 2023 Balance at January 1, 2023 $ 1,707 $ 4,640 $ 6,347 Provision for doubtful accounts 534 (414) 120 Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries (703) (3,077) (3,780) Balance at December 31, 2023 $ 1,538 $ 1,149 $ 2,687 2022 Balance at January 2, 2022 $ 3,229 $ 5,290 $ 8,519 Provision for doubtful accounts (565) (350) (915) Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries (957) (300) (1,257) Balance at January 1, 2023 $ 1,707 $ 4,640 $ 6,347 2021 Balance at January 3, 2021 $ 3,739 $ 5,625 $ 9,364 Provision for doubtful accounts (148) (335) (483) Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries (362) — (362) Balance at January 2, 2022 $ 3,229 $ 5,290 $ 8,519 |
Investments
Investments | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Investments [Abstract] | |
Investments | Investments The following is a summary of the carrying value of our investments: Year End December 31, January 1, Equity method investments $ 32,727 $ 33,921 Other investments in equity securities 1,718 12,107 $ 34,445 $ 46,028 Equity Method Investments Wendy’s has a 50% share in the TimWen real estate joint venture and a 20% share in the Brazil JV, both of which are accounted for using the equity method of accounting, under which our results of operations include our share of the income (loss) of the investees in “Other operating income, net.” A wholly-owned subsidiary of Wendy’s entered into the Brazil JV during the second quarter of 2015 for the operation of Wendy’s restaurants in Brazil. Wendy’s, Starboard International Holdings B.V. and Infinity Holding E Participações Ltda. contributed $1, $2 and $2, respectively, each receiving proportionate equity interests of 20%, 40% and 40%, respectively. The Brazil JV ceased operations in 2021 and no income or loss was recorded during 2023, 2022 and 2021. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Wendy’s had receivables outstanding related to the Brazil JV totaling $6,837 and $16,975 as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively. The total receivables outstanding as of December 31, 2023 are due in 2024. As of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, the Company had reserves of $1,149 and $4,640, respectively, on the receivables related to the Brazil JV. See Note 7 for further information. The carrying value of our investment in TimWen exceeded our interest in the underlying equity of the joint venture by $14,086 and $16,423 as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively, primarily due to purchase price adjustments from the 2008 merger of Triarc Companies, Inc. and Wendy’s International, Inc. (the “Wendy’s Merger”). Presented below is activity related to our investment in TimWen included in our consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of operations as of and for the years ended December 31, 2023, January 1, 2023 and January 2, 2022. Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Balance at beginning of period $ 33,921 $ 39,870 $ 44,574 Equity in earnings for the period 13,493 12,267 14,329 Amortization of purchase price adjustments (a) (2,674) (2,845) (3,126) 10,819 9,422 11,203 Distributions received (12,901) (12,612) (16,337) Foreign currency translation adjustment included in “Other comprehensive income (loss)” and other 888 (2,759) 430 Balance at end of period $ 32,727 $ 33,921 $ 39,870 _______________ (a) Purchase price adjustments that impacted the carrying value of the Company’s investment in TimWen are being amortized over the average original aggregate life of 21 years. Other Investments in Equity Securities |
Properties (Notes)
Properties (Notes) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] | |
Properties | Properties Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Land $ 373,634 $ 371,347 Buildings and improvements 519,244 510,685 Leasehold improvements 432,051 422,330 Office, restaurant and transportation equipment 344,623 314,223 1,669,552 1,618,585 Accumulated depreciation and amortization (778,472) (722,807) $ 891,080 $ 895,778 Depreciation and amortization expense related to properties was $70,108, $69,239 and $68,298 during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. |
Goodwill And Other Intangible A
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets | Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill activity for 2023 and 2022 was as follows: Wendy’s U.S. Wendy’s Global Real Estate & Development Total Balance at January 2, 2022: Goodwill, gross $ 620,863 $ 41,264 $ 122,548 $ 784,675 Accumulated impairment losses (a) — (9,397) — (9,397) Goodwill, net 620,863 31,867 122,548 775,278 Changes in goodwill: Restaurant acquisitions (b) (260) — — (260) Restaurant dispositions — — — — Currency translation adjustment and other — (1,930) — (1,930) Balance at January 1, 2023: Goodwill, gross 620,603 39,334 122,548 782,485 Accumulated impairment losses (a) — (9,397) — (9,397) Goodwill, net 620,603 29,937 122,548 773,088 Changes in goodwill: Restaurant acquisitions — — — — Restaurant dispositions — — — — Currency translation adjustment and other — 639 — 639 Balance at December 31, 2023: Goodwill, gross 620,603 39,973 122,548 783,124 Accumulated impairment losses (a) — (9,397) — (9,397) Goodwill, net $ 620,603 $ 30,576 $ 122,548 $ 773,727 _______________ (a) Accumulated impairment losses resulted from the full impairment of goodwill of the Wendy’s international franchise restaurants during the fourth quarter of 2013. (b) Includes an adjustment to the fair value of net assets acquired in connection with the acquisition of franchised restaurants during 2021. See Note 3 for further information. The following is a summary of the components of other intangible assets and the related amortization expense: Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Cost Accumulated Amortization Net Cost Accumulated Amortization Net Indefinite-lived: Trademarks $ 903,000 $ — $ 903,000 $ 903,000 $ — $ 903,000 Definite-lived: Franchise agreements 348,657 (253,398) 95,259 348,293 (236,536) 111,757 Favorable leases 152,558 (75,502) 77,056 154,048 (67,928) 86,120 Reacquired rights under franchise agreements 90,509 (17,157) 73,352 90,509 (10,536) 79,973 Software 286,269 (215,807) 70,462 263,282 (195,332) 67,950 $ 1,780,993 $ (561,864) $ 1,219,129 $ 1,759,132 $ (510,332) $ 1,248,800 Aggregate amortization expense: Actual for fiscal year: 2021 $ 55,236 2022 58,690 2023 59,356 Estimate for fiscal year: 2024 $ 55,722 2025 48,132 2026 42,306 2027 37,711 2028 32,687 Thereafter 99,571 $ 316,129 |
Accrued Expenses and Other Curr
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Accrued Liabilities [Abstract] | |
Accrued Expenses | Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Accrued compensation and related benefits $ 44,625 $ 39,247 Accrued taxes 28,134 30,159 Legal reserves (a) 19,699 907 Other 42,691 45,697 $ 135,149 $ 116,010 _______________ (a) The Company maintains insurance coverage to help mitigate against a variety of risks, including claims and litigation. The Company’s legal reserve may include amounts that are covered by applicable insurance, in which case any expected insurance receivables are included in “Accounts and notes receivable, net.” See Note 7 for further information. |
Long-Term Debt
Long-Term Debt | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Debt Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Long-Term Debt | Long-Term Debt Long-term debt consisted of the following: Year End December 31, January 1, Class A-2 Notes: 4.236% Series 2022-1 Class A-2-I Notes, anticipated repayment date 2029 $ 98,500 $ 99,500 4.535% Series 2022-1 Class A-2-II Notes, anticipated repayment date 2032 390,134 398,000 2.370% Series 2021-1 Class A-2-I Notes, anticipated repayment date 2029 423,269 443,250 2.775% Series 2021-1 Class A-2-II Notes, anticipated repayment date 2031 633,530 640,250 3.783% Series 2019-1 Class A-2-I Notes, anticipated repayment date 2026 357,673 364,000 4.080% Series 2019-1 Class A-2-II Notes, anticipated repayment date 2029 403,123 409,500 3.884% Series 2018-1 Class A-2-II Notes, anticipated repayment date 2028 441,099 451,250 7% debentures, due in 2025 48,237 86,369 Unamortized debt issuance costs (33,501) (40,673) 2,762,064 2,851,446 Less amounts payable within one year (29,250) (29,250) Total long-term debt $ 2,732,814 $ 2,822,196 Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, excluding the effect of purchase accounting adjustments, as of December 31, 2023 were as follows: Fiscal Year 2024 $ 29,250 2025 78,820 2026 374,923 2027 25,250 2028 442,599 Thereafter 1,846,056 $ 2,796,898 Senior Notes Wendy’s Funding, LLC (“Wendy’s Funding”), a limited-purpose, bankruptcy-remote, wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of The Wendy’s Company, is the master issuer (the “Master Issuer”) of outstanding senior secured notes under a securitized financing facility that was entered into in June 2015. As of December 31, 2023, the Master Issuer has issued the following outstanding series of fixed rate senior secured notes: (i) 2022-1 Class A-2-I with an initial principal amount of $100,000; (ii) 2022-1 Class A-2-II with an initial principal amount of $400,000 (collectively, the 2022-1 Class A-2-I Notes and the 2022-1 Class A-2-II Notes are referred to herein as the “2022-1 Class A-2 Notes”); (iii) 2021-1 Class A-2-I with an initial principal amount of $450,000; (iv) 2021-1 Class A-2-II with an initial principal amount of $650,000; (v) 2019-1 Class A-2-I with an initial principal amount of $400,000; (vi) 2019-1 Class A-2-II with an initial principal amount of $450,000; and (vii) 2018-1 Class A-2-II with an initial principal amount of $475,000 (collectively, the notes described in (i) to (vii) are referred to herein as the “Class A-2 Notes”). During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company repurchased $29,171 in principal of its Class A-2 Notes for $24,935. As a result, the Company recognized a gain on early extinguishment of debt of $3,914 for the year ended December 31, 2023. In connection with the issuance of the 2021-1 Class A-2-I and 2021-1 Class A-2-II Notes, the Master Issuer also entered into a revolving financing facility of 2021-1 Variable Funding Senior Secured Notes, Class A-1 (the “2021-1 Class A-1 Notes”), which allows for the drawing of up to $300,000 on a revolving basis using various credit instruments, including a letter of credit facility. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under the 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes. The Master Issuer’s issuance of the 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes in June 2021 replaced the Company’s previous $150,000 Series 2019-1 Variable Funding Senior Secured Notes, Class A-1 (the “2019-1 Class A-1 Notes”) and $100,000 Series 2020-1 Variable Funding Senior Secured Notes, Class A-1 (the “2020-1 Class A-1 Notes”). The Class A-2 Notes and the 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes are collectively referred to as the “Senior Notes.” The Senior Notes are secured by a security interest in substantially all of the assets of the Master Issuer and certain other limited-purpose, bankruptcy-remote, wholly-owned indirect subsidiaries of the Company that act as guarantors (collectively, the “Securitization Entities”), except for certain real estate assets and subject to certain limitations as set forth in the indenture governing the Senior Notes (the “Indenture”) and the related guarantee and collateral agreements. The assets of the Securitization Entities include most of the domestic and certain of the foreign revenue-generating assets of the Company and its subsidiaries, which principally consist of franchise-related agreements, certain Company-operated restaurants, intellectual property and license agreements for the use of intellectual property. Interest and principal payments on the Class A-2 Notes are payable on a quarterly basis. The requirement to make such quarterly principal payments on the Class A-2 Notes is subject to certain financial conditions set forth in the Indenture. The legal final maturity dates for the Class A-2 Notes range from 2048 through 2052. If the Master Issuer has not repaid or refinanced the Class A-2 Notes prior to their respective anticipated repayment dates, which range from 2026 through 2032, additional interest will accrue pursuant to the Indenture. The 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes accrue interest at a variable interest rate based on (i) the prime rate, (ii) overnight federal funds rates, (iii) SOFR for U.S. Dollars or (iv) with respect to advances made by conduit investors, the weighted average cost of, or related to, the issuance of commercial paper allocated to fund or maintain such advances, in each case plus any applicable margin and as specified in the purchase agreement for the 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes. There is a commitment fee on the unused portions of the 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes, which ranges from 0.40% to 0.75% based on utilization. As of December 31, 2023, $28,627 of letters of credit were outstanding against the 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes, which relate primarily to interest reserves required under the Indenture. Covenants and Restrictions The Senior Notes are subject to a series of covenants and restrictions customary for transactions of this type, including (i) that the Master Issuer maintains specified reserve accounts to be used to make required payments in respect of the Senior Notes, (ii) provisions relating to optional and mandatory prepayments and the related payment of specified amounts, including specified make-whole payments in the case of the Class A-2 Notes under certain circumstances, (iii) certain indemnification payments in the event, among other things, the assets pledged as collateral for the Senior Notes are in stated ways defective or ineffective and (iv) covenants relating to recordkeeping, access to information and similar matters. The Senior Notes are also subject to customary rapid amortization events provided for in the Indenture, including events tied to failure to maintain stated debt service coverage ratios, the sum of global gross sales for specified restaurants being below certain levels on certain measurement dates, certain manager termination events, an event of default, and the failure to repay or refinance the Class A-2 Notes on the applicable scheduled maturity date. The Senior Notes are also subject to certain customary events of default, including events relating to non-payment of required interest, principal, or other amounts due on or with respect to the Senior Notes, failure to comply with covenants within certain time frames, certain bankruptcy events, breaches of specified representations and warranties, failure of security interests to be effective, and certain judgments. In addition, the Indenture and the related management agreement contain various covenants that limit the Company and its subsidiaries’ ability to engage in specified types of transactions, subject to certain exceptions, including, for example, to (i) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness, (ii) sell certain assets, (iii) create or incur liens on certain assets to secure indebtedness or (iv) consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of their assets. In accordance with the Indenture, certain cash accounts have been established with the Indenture trustee for the benefit of the trustee and the noteholders, and are restricted in their use. As of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, Wendy’s Funding had restricted cash of $35,483 and $34,850, respectively, which primarily represents cash collections and cash reserves held by the trustee to be used for payments of principal, interest and commitment fees required for the Class A-2 Notes. Debt Financing In April 2022, the Master Issuer completed a debt financing transaction under which the Company issued the 2022-1 Class A-2 Notes with an initial principal amount of $500,000. The legal final maturity date of the 2022-1 Class A-2 Notes is March 2052 and the anticipated repayment dates are in 2029 and 2032. Refinancing Transactions In June 2021, the Master Issuer completed a refinancing transaction under which the Master Issuer issued the Series 2021-1 Class A-2-I Notes and the Series 2021-1 Class A-2-II Notes. A portion of the net proceeds from the sale of the Series 2021-1 Class A-2 Notes were used to repay in full the Master Issuer’s outstanding Series 2015-1 Class A-2-III Notes and Series 2018-1 Class A-2-I Notes, including the payment of prepayment and transaction costs. As a result of the refinancing, the Company recorded a loss on early extinguishment of debt of $17,917 during 2021, which was comprised of a specified make-whole payment of $9,632 and the write-off of certain unamortized deferred financing costs of $8,285. As part of the June 2021 refinancing transaction, the Master Issuer also issued the 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes. The Series 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes replaced the 2019-1 Class A-1 Notes and 2020-1 Class A-1 Notes, which were canceled on the closing date, and the letters of credit outstanding against the Series 2019-1 Class A-1 Notes were transferred to the Series 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes. Debt Issuance Costs During 2022 and 2021, the Company incurred debt issuance costs of $10,232 and $20,873 in connection with the issuance of the 2022-1 Class A-2 Notes and the June 2021 refinancing transaction. The debt issuance costs are being amortized to “Interest expense, net” through the anticipated repayment dates of the Class A-2 Notes utilizing the effective interest rate method. As of December 31, 2023, the effective interest rates, including the amortization of debt issuance costs, were 4.0%, 4.0%, 4.2%, 2.5%, 2.9%, 4.7% and 4.7% for the Series 2018-1 Class A-2-II Notes, Series 2019-1 Class A-2-I Notes, Series 2019-1 Class A-2-II Notes, Series 2021-1 Class A-2-I Notes, Series 2021-1 Class A-2-II Notes, Series 2022-1 Class A-2-I Notes and Series 2022-1 Class A-2-II Notes, respectively. Other Long-Term Debt Wendy’s 7% debentures are unsecured and were reduced to fair value in connection with the Wendy’s Merger based on their outstanding principal of $100,000 and an effective interest rate of 8.6%. The fair value adjustment is being accreted and the related charge included in “Interest expense, net” until the debentures mature. These debentures contain covenants that restrict the incurrence of indebtedness secured by liens and certain finance lease transactions. In December 2019, Wendy’s repurchased $10,000 in principal of its 7% debentures for $10,550, including a premium of $500 and transaction fees of $50. During 2023, Wendy’s repurchased $40,430 in principal of its 7% debentures for $40,517. As a result, the Company recognized a loss on early extinguishment of debt of $1,631 during 2023. A Canadian subsidiary of Wendy’s has a revolving credit facility of C$6,000, which bears interest at the Bank of Montreal Prime Rate. Borrowings under the facility are guaranteed by Wendy’s. In March 2020, the Company drew down C$5,500 under the revolving credit facility, which the Company fully repaid through repayments of C$3,000 in the fourth quarter of 2020 and C$2,500 in the first quarter of 2021. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under the Canadian revolving credit facility. Wendy’s U.S. advertising fund has a revolving line of credit of $15,000, which was established to support the Company’s advertising fund operations and bears interest at SOFR plus 2.25%. Borrowings under the line of credit are guaranteed by Wendy’s. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under the advertising fund revolving line of credit. Interest Expense Interest expense on the Company’s long-term debt was $112,659, $110,751 and $98,356 during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which was recorded to “Interest expense, net.” Pledged Assets The following is a summary of the Company’s assets pledged as collateral for certain debt: Year End December 31, Cash and cash equivalents $ 35,532 Restricted cash and other assets 35,488 Accounts and notes receivable, net 46,114 Inventories 5,760 Properties 78,932 Other intangible assets 994,350 $ 1,196,176 |
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Measurements | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | |
Fair Value Measurements | Fair Value Measurements Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Valuation techniques under the accounting guidance related to fair value measurements are based on observable and unobservable inputs. Observable inputs reflect readily obtainable data from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect our market assumptions. These inputs are classified into the following hierarchy: • Level 1 Inputs - Quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets. • Level 2 Inputs - Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable. • Level 3 Inputs - Pricing inputs are unobservable for the assets or liabilities and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the assets or liabilities. The inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation. Financial Instruments The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments: Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Fair Value Financial assets Cash equivalents $ 365,901 $ 365,901 $ 560,682 $ 560,682 Level 1 Other investments in equity securities (a) 1,718 1,718 12,107 12,107 Level 2 Financial liabilities (b) Series 2022-1 Class A-2-I Notes 98,500 92,289 99,500 89,401 Level 2 Series 2022-1 Class A-2-II Notes 390,134 370,577 398,000 349,444 Level 2 Series 2021-1 Class A-2-I Notes 423,269 362,572 443,250 357,304 Level 2 Series 2021-1 Class A-2-II Notes 633,530 530,581 640,250 499,011 Level 2 Series 2019-1 Class A-2-I Notes 357,673 341,606 364,000 334,334 Level 2 Series 2019-1 Class A-2-II Notes 403,123 374,058 409,500 361,875 Level 2 Series 2018-1 Class A-2-II Notes 441,099 412,754 451,250 405,809 Level 2 7% debentures, due in 2025 48,237 49,431 86,369 92,367 Level 2 _______________ (a) The fair value of our other investments in equity securities is based on our review of information provided by the investment manager, which is based on observable price changes in orderly transactions for a similar investment of the same issuer. (b) The fair values were based on quoted market prices in markets that are not considered active markets. The carrying amounts of cash, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of those items. The carrying amounts of accounts and notes receivable, net (both current and non-current) approximate fair value due to the effect of the related allowance for doubtful accounts. Our cash equivalents are the only financial assets measured and recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements Assets and liabilities remeasured to fair value on a non-recurring basis resulted in impairment that we have recorded to “Impairment of long-lived assets” in our consolidated statements of operations. Total impairment losses may reflect the impact of remeasuring long-lived assets held and used (including land, buildings, leasehold improvements, favorable lease assets and ROU assets) to fair value as a result of (1) the deterioration in operating performance of certain Company-operated restaurants and (2) the Company’s decision to lease and/or sublease the land and/or buildings to franchisees in connection with the sale or anticipated sale of restaurants, including any subsequent lease modifications. The fair values of long-lived assets held and used presented in the tables below represent the remaining carrying value and were estimated based on either discounted cash flows of future anticipated lease and sublease income or discounted cash flows of future anticipated Company-operated restaurant performance. Total impairment losses may also include the impact of remeasuring long-lived assets held for sale. The fair values of long-lived assets held for sale presented in the tables below represent the remaining carrying value and were estimated based on current market values. See Note 17 for further information on impairment of our long-lived assets. Fair Value Measurements 2023 Total Losses December 31, Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Held and used $ 1,212 $ — $ — $ 1,212 $ 1,316 Held for sale 1,044 — — 1,044 85 Total $ 2,256 $ — $ — $ 2,256 $ 1,401 Fair Value Measurements 2022 Total Losses January 1, Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Held and used $ 4,590 $ — $ — $ 4,590 $ 5,727 Held for sale 1,314 — — 1,314 693 Total $ 5,904 $ — $ — $ 5,904 $ 6,420 |
Income Taxes
Income Taxes | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Income Taxes | Income Taxes Income before income taxes is set forth below: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Domestic $ 264,423 $ 231,862 $ 228,756 Foreign (a) 14,995 11,643 11,822 $ 279,418 $ 243,505 $ 240,578 _______________ (a) Excludes foreign income of domestic subsidiaries. The (provision for) benefit from income taxes is set forth below: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Current: U.S. federal $ (50,435) $ (43,141) $ (38,416) State (13,730) (9,152) (7,039) Foreign (11,620) (9,537) (8,512) Current tax provision (75,785) (61,830) (53,967) Deferred: U.S. federal 2,163 (3,868) (52) State 564 (2,629) 15,993 Foreign (1,920) 2,192 (2,160) Deferred tax benefit (provision) 807 (4,305) 13,781 Income tax provision $ (74,978) $ (66,135) $ (40,186) Deferred tax assets (liabilities) are set forth below: Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Deferred tax assets: Operating and finance lease liabilities $ 339,655 $ 355,653 Net operating loss and credit carryforwards 58,170 58,030 Deferred revenue 23,848 23,617 Unfavorable leases 17,104 19,085 Accrued compensation and related benefits 15,786 14,577 Accrued expenses and reserves 6,802 7,012 Other 11,243 8,275 Valuation allowances (39,346) (35,680) Total deferred tax assets 433,262 450,569 Deferred tax liabilities: Operating and finance lease assets (310,011) (326,646) Intangible assets (290,782) (285,688) Fixed assets (62,673) (66,830) Other (40,149) (41,826) Total deferred tax liabilities (703,615) (720,990) $ (270,353) $ (270,421) The amounts and expiration dates of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards are as follows: Amount Expiration Tax credit carryforwards: U.S. federal foreign tax credits $ 17,111 2027-2033 Foreign tax credits of non-U.S. subsidiaries 3,973 Indefinite Total $ 21,084 Net operating loss carryforwards (pre-tax): State and local net operating loss carryforwards $ 744,363 2024-2035 State and local net operating loss carryforwards 219,652 Indefinite Foreign net operating loss carryforwards 11,609 Indefinite Total $ 975,624 The Company’s valuation allowances of $39,346 and $35,680 as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively, relate primarily to foreign and state tax credit and net operating loss carryforwards. Valuation allowances increased $3,666 during 2023 and decreased $2,597 and $11,691 during 2022 and 2021, respectively. The relative presence of Company-operated restaurants in various states impacts expected future state taxable income available to utilize state net operating loss carryforwards. The current portion of refundable income taxes was $5,284 and $3,236 as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively, and is included in “Accounts and notes receivable, net.” There were no long-term refundable income taxes as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023. The reconciliation of income tax computed at the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21% to reported income tax is set forth below: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Income tax provision at the U.S. federal statutory rate $ (58,678) $ (51,136) $ (50,521) State income tax provision, net of U.S. federal income tax effect (11,400) (11,616) (6,256) Prior years’ tax matters (2,250) 2,290 1,820 Excess federal tax benefits from share-based compensation 845 402 7,160 Foreign and U.S. tax effects of foreign operations 1,799 (3,744) (5) Valuation allowances (a) (3,533) 2,127 11,807 Non-deductible goodwill (b) — — (947) Tax credits 1,050 1,385 1,028 Non-deductible executive compensation (2,863) (3,154) (3,810) Unrepatriated earnings (387) (294) (282) Non-deductible expenses and other 439 (2,395) (180) $ (74,978) $ (66,135) $ (40,186) _______________ (a) 2021 primarily relates to a $12,606 benefit resulting from a change in state tax law. (b) Related to the sale of the New York Company-operated restaurants (including Manhattan). See Note 4 for further information. The Company participates in the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) Compliance Assurance Process (“CAP”). As part of CAP, tax years are examined on a contemporaneous basis so that all or most issues are resolved prior to the filing of the tax return. As such, our tax returns for fiscal years through 2021 have been settled. The statute of limitations for the Company’s state tax returns vary, but generally the Company’s state income tax returns from its 2018 fiscal year and forward remain subject to examination. We believe that adequate provisions have been made for any liabilities, including interest and penalties that may result from the completion of these examinations. Unrecognized Tax Benefits As of December 31, 2023, the Company had unrecognized tax benefits of $16,719, which, if resolved favorably, would reduce income tax expense by $13,208. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Beginning balance $ 17,404 $ 18,849 $ 20,973 Additions: Tax positions of current year 836 178 157 Reductions: Tax positions of prior years (690) (662) (2,015) Settlements (249) (8) (46) Lapse of statute of limitations (582) (953) (220) Ending balance $ 16,719 $ 17,404 $ 18,849 During 2024, we believe it is reasonably possible the Company will reduce unrecognized tax benefits by up to $220 due primarily to the lapse of statutes of limitations and expected settlements. During 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized $134, $(30) and $138 of expense (income) for interest, respectively, and $37 of income in 2021 for penalties, related to uncertain tax positions. The Company has $979 and $943 accrued for interest related to uncertain tax positions as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively. |
Stockholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] | |
Stockholders' Equity | Stockholders’ Equity Dividends During 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company paid dividends per share of $1.00, $.50 and $.43, respectively. Treasury Stock There were 470,424 shares of common stock issued at the beginning and end of 2023, 2022 and 2021. Treasury stock activity for 2023, 2022 and 2021 was as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Number of shares at beginning of year 257,323 254,575 246,156 Repurchases of common stock 9,107 3,474 11,487 Common shares issued: Stock options, net (989) (353) (2,657) Restricted stock, net (322) (264) (337) Director fees (22) (22) (17) Other (70) (87) (57) Number of shares at end of year 265,027 257,323 254,575 Repurchases of Common Stock In January 2023, our Board of Directors authorized a repurchase program for up to $500,000 of our common stock through February 28, 2027, when and if market conditions warrant and to the extent legally permissible (the “January 2023 Authorization”). During 2023, the Company repurchased 9,107 shares under the January 2023 Authorization with an aggregate purchase price of $190,000, of which $573 was accrued as of December 31, 2023, and excluding excise tax of $1,744 and commissions of $127. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $310,000 of availability remaining under the January 2023 Authorization. In February 2022, our Board of Directors authorized a repurchase program for up to $100,000 of our common stock through February 28, 2023, when and if market conditions warranted and to the extent legally permissible (the “February 2022 Authorization”). In April 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors approved an increase of $150,000 to the February 2022 Authorization, resulting in an aggregate authorization of $250,000 that was set to expire on February 28, 2023. During 2022, the Company repurchased 2,759 shares under the February 2022 Authorization with an aggregate purchase price of $51,911, excluding commissions of $39. In connection with the January 2023 Authorization, the remaining portion of the February 2022 Authorization was canceled. In February 2020, our Board of Directors authorized a repurchase program for up to $100,000 of our common stock through February 28, 2021, when and if market conditions warranted and to the extent legally permissible (the “February 2020 Authorization”). In July 2020, the Company’s Board of Directors approved an extension of the February 2020 Authorization by one year, through February 28, 2022. In addition, during 2021, the Board of Directors approved increases totaling $200,000 to the February 2020 Authorization, resulting in an aggregate authorization of $300,000 that continued to expire on February 28, 2022. In November 2021, the Company entered into an accelerated share repurchase agreement (the “2021 ASR Agreement”) with a third-party financial institution to repurchase common stock as part of the February 2020 Authorization. Under the 2021 ASR Agreement, the Company paid the financial institution an initial purchase price of $125,000 in cash and received an initial delivery of 4,910 shares of common stock, representing an estimated 85% of the total shares expected to be delivered under the 2021 ASR Agreement. In February 2022, the Company completed the 2021 ASR Agreement and received an additional 715 shares of common stock. The total number of shares of common stock ultimately purchased by the Company under the 2021 ASR Agreement was based on the average of the daily volume-weighted average prices of the common stock during the term of the 2021 ASR Agreement, less an agreed upon discount. In total, 5,625 shares were delivered under the 2021 ASR Agreement at an average purchase price of $22.22 per share. In addition to the shares repurchased in connection with the 2021 ASR Agreement, during 2021, the Company repurchased 6,577 shares with an aggregate purchase price of $142,715, excluding commissions of $93, under the February 2020 Authorization. After taking into consideration these repurchases, with the completion of the 2021 ASR Agreement in February 2022 described above, the Company completed the February 2020 Authorization. Preferred Stock There were 100,000 shares authorized and no shares issued of preferred stock throughout 2023, 2022 and 2021. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss The following table provides a rollforward of accumulated other comprehensive loss, which is entirely comprised of foreign currency translation: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Balance at beginning of period $ (64,176) $ (48,200) $ (49,641) Foreign currency translation 5,801 (15,976) 1,441 Balance at end of period $ (58,375) $ (64,176) $ (48,200) |
Share-Based Compensation
Share-Based Compensation | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract] | |
Share-Based Compensation | Share-Based Compensation The Company has the ability to grant stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, other stock-based awards and performance compensation awards to current or prospective employees, directors, officers, consultants or advisors. During 2020, the Company’s Board of Directors and its stockholders approved the adoption of the 2020 Omnibus Award Plan (the “2020 Plan”) for the issuance of equity instruments as described above. The Company’s previous 2010 Omnibus Award Plan (as amended, the “2010 Plan”) expired in accordance with its terms in 2020. All equity grants in 2023, 2022, and 2021 were issued from the 2020 Plan. The 2020 Plan is currently the only equity plan from which future equity awards may be granted, but outstanding awards granted under the 2010 Plan will continue to be governed by the terms of the 2010 Plan. As of December 31, 2023, there were approximately 14,850 shares of common stock available for future grants under the 2020 Plan. During the periods presented in the consolidated financial statements, the Company settled all exercises of stock options and vesting of restricted shares, including performance shares, with treasury shares. Stock Options The Company grants stock options that have maximum contractual terms of 10 years and vest ratably over three years. The exercise price of options granted is equal to the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The fair value of stock options on the date of grant is calculated using the Black-Scholes Model. The aggregate intrinsic value of an option is the amount by which the fair value of the underlying stock exceeds its exercise price. The following table summarizes stock option activity during 2023: Number of Options Weighted Weighted Aggregate Outstanding at January 1, 2023 10,890 $ 19.00 Granted 1,089 21.53 Exercised (1,104) 15.27 Forfeited and/or expired (385) 22.01 Outstanding at December 31, 2023 10,490 $ 19.55 5.78 $ 14,801 Vested or expected to vest at December 31, 2023 10,414 $ 19.53 5.76 $ 14,801 Exercisable at December 31, 2023 8,153 $ 18.89 4.89 $ 14,801 The total intrinsic value of options exercised during 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $7,230, $2,979 and $39,522, respectively. The weighted average grant date fair value of stock options granted during 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $5.35, $6.33 and $6.33, respectively. The weighted average grant date fair value of stock options was determined using the following assumptions: 2023 2022 2021 Risk-free interest rate 4.31 % 3.00 % 0.70 % Expected option life in years 5.01 4.75 4.50 Expected volatility 36.79 % 37.82 % 38.00 % Expected dividend yield 4.64 % 2.34 % 2.03 % The risk-free interest rate represents the U.S. Treasury zero-coupon bond yield correlating to the expected life of the stock options granted. The expected option life represents the period of time that the stock options granted are expected to be outstanding based on historical exercise trends for similar grants. The expected volatility is based on the historical market price volatility of the Company over a period equivalent to the expected option life. The expected dividend yield represents the Company’s annualized average yield for regular quarterly dividends declared prior to the respective stock option grant dates. The Black-Scholes Model has limitations on its effectiveness including that it was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options which have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable and that the model requires the use of highly subjective assumptions, such as expected stock price volatility. Employee stock option awards have characteristics significantly different from those of traded options and changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimates. Restricted Shares The Company grants RSUs, which primarily vest ratably over three years or cliff vest after three years. The Company also grants RSAs to non-employee directors, which primarily cliff vest after one The following table summarizes activity of Restricted Shares during 2023: Number of Restricted Shares Weighted Non-vested at January 1, 2023 1,186 $ 20.03 Granted 652 21.70 Vested (370) 20.93 Forfeited (96) 22.11 Non-vested at December 31, 2023 1,372 $ 20.42 The total fair value of Restricted Shares that vested in 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $8,224, $5,564 and $7,048, respectively. Performance Shares The Company grants performance-based awards to certain officers and key employees. The vesting of these awards is contingent upon meeting one or more defined operational or financial goals (a performance condition) or common stock share prices (a market condition). The quantity of shares awarded ranges from 0% to 200% of “Target,” as defined in the award agreement as the midpoint number of shares, based on the level of achievement of the performance and market conditions. The fair values of the performance condition awards granted in 2023, 2022 and 2021 were determined using the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant, as set forth in the applicable plan document. Share-based compensation expense recorded for performance condition awards is reevaluated at each reporting period based on the probability of the achievement of the goal. The fair value of market condition awards granted in 2023, 2022 and 2021 were estimated using the Monte Carlo simulation model. The Monte Carlo simulation model utilizes multiple input variables to estimate the probability that the market conditions will be achieved and is applied to the trading price of our common stock on the date of grant. The input variables are noted in the table below: 2023 2022 2021 Risk-free interest rate 4.31 % 1.71 % 0.20 % Expected life in years 3.00 3.00 3.00 Expected volatility 34.95 % 52.33 % 49.47 % Expected dividend yield (a) 0.00 % 0.00 % 0.00 % _______________ (a) The Monte Carlo method assumes a reinvestment of dividends. Share-based compensation expense is recorded ratably for market condition awards during the requisite service period and is not reversed, except for forfeitures, at the vesting date regardless of whether the market condition is met. The following table summarizes activity of performance shares at Target during 2023: Performance Condition Awards Market Condition Awards Shares Weighted Shares Weighted Non-vested at January 1, 2023 584 $ 21.67 462 $ 27.38 Granted 191 22.89 159 27.46 Dividend equivalent units issued (a) 28 — 23 — Vested (96) 23.37 (97) 30.31 Forfeited (99) 22.44 (53) 28.47 Non-vested at December 31, 2023 608 $ 21.66 494 $ 26.68 _______________ (a) Dividend equivalent units are issued in lieu of cash dividends for non-vested performance shares. There is no weighted average fair value associated with dividend equivalent units. The total fair value of performance condition awards that vested in 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $2,105, $1,712 and $1,784, respectively. The total fair value of market condition awards that vested in 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $2,138, $2,253 and $3,498, respectively. Share-Based Compensation Total share-based compensation and the related income tax benefit recognized in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations were as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Stock options $ 7,687 $ 9,072 $ 9,256 Restricted shares 9,503 7,106 6,677 Performance shares: Performance condition awards 2,524 4,431 2,861 Market condition awards 4,033 3,929 3,225 Share-based compensation 23,747 24,538 22,019 Less: Income tax benefit (3,207) (3,043) (2,790) Share-based compensation, net of income tax benefit $ 20,540 $ 21,495 $ 19,229 As of December 31, 2023, there was $27,245 of total unrecognized share-based compensation, which will be recognized over a weighted average amortization period of 1.56 years. |
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Asset Impairment Charges [Abstract] | |
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets | Impairment of Long-Lived Assets The Company records impairment charges as a result of (1) the deterioration in operating performance of certain Company-operated restaurants, (2) the Company’s decision to lease and/or sublease properties to franchisees in connection with the sale or anticipated sale of Company-operated restaurants, including any subsequent lease modifications, and (3) closing Company-operated restaurants and classifying such surplus properties as held for sale. The following is a summary of impairment losses recorded, which represent the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the affected assets and are included in “Impairment of long-lived assets:” Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Company-operated restaurants $ 1,316 $ 5,485 $ 1,862 Restaurants leased or subleased to franchisees — 242 189 Surplus properties 85 693 200 $ 1,401 $ 6,420 $ 2,251 |
Retirement Benefit Plans
Retirement Benefit Plans | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Retirement Benefits [Abstract] | |
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure | Retirement Benefit Plans 401(k) Plan The Company has a 401(k) defined contribution plan (the “401(k) Plan”) for employees who meet certain minimum requirements and elect to participate. The 401(k) Plan permits employees to contribute up to 75% of their compensation, subject to certain limitations, and provides for matching employee contributions up to 4% of compensation and for discretionary profit sharing contributions. In connection with the matching contributions, the Company recognized compensation expense of $5,947, $5,929 and $4,583 in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Deferred Compensation Plan The Company has a non-qualified, unfunded deferred compensation plan for management and highly compensated employees, whereby participants may defer all or a portion of their base compensation and certain incentive awards on a pre-tax basis. The Company credits the amounts deferred with earnings based on the investment options selected by the participants. The Company may also make discretionary contributions to the plan. The total of participant deferrals was $1,959 and $1,435 at December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively, which are included in “Other liabilities.” |
Leases
Leases | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Leases [Abstract] | |
Leases, Company as Lessee | Leases Nature of Leases The Company operates restaurants that are located on sites owned by us and sites leased by us from third parties. In addition, the Company owns sites and leases sites from third parties, which it leases and/or subleases to franchisees. At December 31, 2023, Wendy’s and its franchisees operated 7,240 Wendy’s restaurants. Of the 415 Company-operated Wendy’s restaurants, Wendy’s owned the land and building for 158 restaurants, owned the building and held long-term land leases for 145 restaurants and held leases covering the land and building for 112 restaurants. Wendy’s also owned 488 and leased 1,179 properties that were either leased or subleased principally to franchisees. The Company also leases restaurant, office and transportation equipment. Company as Lessee The components of lease cost for 2023, 2022 and 2021 are as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Finance lease cost: Amortization of finance lease assets $ 16,061 $ 15,440 $ 13,992 Interest on finance lease liabilities 42,624 42,918 41,419 58,685 58,358 55,411 Operating lease cost 85,138 86,050 89,283 Variable lease cost (a) 66,859 64,473 63,853 Short-term lease cost 5,864 5,439 5,102 Total operating lease cost (b) 157,861 155,962 158,238 Total lease cost $ 216,546 $ 214,320 $ 213,649 _______________ (a) Includes expenses for executory costs of $39,456, $38,749, and $39,646 for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, for which the Company is reimbursed by sublessees. (b) Includes $125,180, $123,924 and $132,158 for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, recorded to “Franchise rental expense” for leased properties that are subsequently leased to franchisees. Also includes $30,538, $29,648 and $23,558 for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, recorded to “Cost of sales” for leases for Company-operated restaurants. The following table includes supplemental cash flow and non-cash information related to leases: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: Operating cash flows from finance leases $ 42,624 $ 42,979 $ 42,277 Operating cash flows from operating leases 86,972 88,372 91,930 Financing cash flows from finance leases 21,588 17,312 13,640 Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations: Finance lease liabilities 20,243 34,478 82,032 Operating lease liabilities 12,659 24,742 58,770 The following table includes supplemental information related to leases: Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, Weighted-average remaining lease term (years): Finance leases 14.3 15.1 Operating leases 12.6 13.7 Weighted average discount rate: Finance leases 8.52 % 8.66 % Operating leases 4.93 % 4.90 % Supplemental balance sheet information: Finance lease assets, gross $ 318,951 $ 310,686 Accumulated amortization (90,015) (76,116) Finance lease assets 228,936 234,570 Operating lease assets 705,615 754,498 The following table illustrates the Company’s future minimum rental payments for non-cancelable leases as of December 31, 2023: Finance Operating Fiscal Year Company-Operated Franchise Company-Operated Franchise 2024 $ 6,904 $ 55,492 $ 22,052 $ 64,636 2025 7,104 56,121 22,048 64,432 2026 7,249 57,817 22,500 63,967 2027 7,293 58,702 22,439 63,678 2028 7,350 59,919 22,223 63,869 Thereafter 78,045 563,716 169,965 469,484 Total minimum payments $ 113,945 $ 851,767 $ 281,227 $ 790,066 Less interest (36,660) (340,035) (71,529) (211,071) Present value of minimum lease payments (a) (b) $ 77,285 $ 511,732 $ 209,698 $ 578,995 _______________ (a) The present value of minimum finance lease payments of $20,250 and $568,767 are included in “Current portion of finance lease liabilities” and “Long-term finance lease liabilities,” respectively. (b) The present value of minimum operating lease payments of $49,353 and $739,340 are included in “Current portion of operating lease liabilities” and “Long-term operating lease liabilities,” respectively. |
Leases, Company as Lessor | Company as Lessor The components of lease income for 2023, 2022 and 2021 are as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Sales-type and direct-financing leases: Selling profit $ 2,466 $ 2,981 $ 4,244 Interest income (a) 31,412 31,298 30,648 Operating lease income 163,927 170,633 173,442 Variable lease income 66,241 63,832 63,213 Franchise rental income (b) $ 230,168 $ 234,465 $ 236,655 _______________ (a) Included in “Interest expense, net.” (b) Includes sublease income of $170,112, $175,053 and $174,327 recognized during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Sublease income includes lessees’ variable payments to the Company for executory costs of $39,350, $38,733 and $39,650 for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The following table illustrates the Company’s future minimum rental receipts for non-cancelable leases and subleases as of December 31, 2023: Sales-Type and Operating Fiscal Year Subleases Owned Properties Subleases Owned Properties 2024 $ 38,890 $ 2,087 $ 106,470 $ 54,946 2025 37,826 2,194 106,616 55,549 2026 39,136 2,364 106,840 57,308 2027 39,719 2,244 107,263 56,954 2028 40,684 1,999 107,652 56,741 Thereafter 399,480 25,730 783,633 542,967 Total future minimum receipts 595,735 36,618 $ 1,318,474 $ 824,465 Unearned interest income (288,461) (19,449) Net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases (a) $ 307,274 $ 17,169 _______________ (a) The present value of minimum sales-type and direct financing rental receipts of $10,779 and $313,664 are included in “Accounts and notes receivable, net” and “Net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases,” respectively. The present value of minimum sales-type and direct financing rental receipts includes a net investment in unguaranteed residual assets of $590. Properties owned by the Company and leased to franchisees and other third parties under operating leases include: Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Land $ 260,125 $ 260,650 Buildings and improvements 296,242 291,659 Restaurant equipment 1,701 1,701 558,068 554,010 Accumulated depreciation and amortization (198,429) (187,269) $ 359,639 $ 366,741 |
Supplemental Cash Flow Informat
Supplemental Cash Flow Information | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] | |
Supplemental Cash Flow Information | Supplemental Cash Flow Information The following table includes supplemental cash flow information for 2023, 2022 and 2021: Year Ended December 31, January 1, January 2, Long-term debt-related activities, net: (Gain) loss on early extinguishment of debt $ (2,283) $ — $ 17,917 Accretion of long-term debt 755 1,194 1,177 Amortization of deferred financing costs 6,848 6,568 5,664 $ 5,320 $ 7,762 $ 24,758 Cash paid for: Interest $ 146,878 $ 144,418 $ 133,284 Income taxes, net of refunds 75,190 47,769 54,779 Non-cash investing and financing activities: Capital expenditures included in accounts payable $ 9,088 $ 14,468 $ 6,158 Finance leases 20,243 34,478 82,032 The following table includes a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash for 2023, 2022 and 2021: December 31, January 1, January 2, Cash and cash equivalents $ 516,037 $ 745,889 $ 249,438 Restricted cash 35,848 35,203 27,535 Restricted cash, included in Advertising funds restricted assets 36,931 50,709 89,993 Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 588,816 $ 831,801 $ 366,966 Franchise Development Fund In August 2021, the Company announced the creation of a strategic build to suit development fund to drive additional new restaurant growth. Capital expenditures related to the fund are included in “Franchise development fund” in the consolidated statements of cash flows. |
Guarantees and Other Commitment
Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies | Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities Franchisee Image Activation Incentive Programs To promote new restaurant development, Wendy’s has provided franchisees with certain incentive programs for qualifying new restaurants. In February 2023, Wendy’s announced a new restaurant development incentive program in the U.S. and Canada that provides for waivers of royalty, national advertising and technical assistance fees for up to the first three years of operation for qualifying new restaurants (“Pacesetter”). Wendy’s previously offered and will continue to offer a restaurant development incentive program that provides for reductions in royalty and national advertising fees for up to the first two years of operation for qualifying new restaurants (“Groundbreaker”). Wendy’s U.S. and Canadian franchisees may elect either the Pacesetter program or the Groundbreaker program when committing to new multi-unit development agreements or adding incremental commitments to existing development agreements. Wendy’s also provides franchisees with the option of an early 20-year or 25-year renewal of their franchise agreement upon completion of reimaging utilizing certain approved Image Activation reimage designs. Lease Guarantees Wendy’s has guaranteed the performance of certain leases and other obligations, primarily from former Company-operated restaurant locations now operated by franchisees, amounting to $98,148 as of December 31, 2023. These leases extend through 2045. We have had no judgments against us as guarantor of these leases as of December 31, 2023. In the event of default by a franchise owner where Wendy’s is called upon to perform under its guarantee, Wendy’s has the ability to pursue repayment from the franchise owner. The liability recorded for our probable exposure associated with these lease guarantees was not material as of December 31, 2023. Insurance Wendy’s is self-insured for most workers’ compensation losses and purchases insurance for general liability and automotive liability losses, all subject to a $500 per occurrence retention or deductible limit. Wendy’s determines its liability for claims incurred but not reported for the insurance liabilities on an actuarial basis. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $17,157 recorded for these insurance liabilities. Wendy’s is self-insured for health care claims for eligible participating employees subject to certain deductibles and limitations and determines its liability for health care claims incurred but not reported based on historical claims runoff data. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $3,089 recorded for these health care insurance liabilities. Letters of Credit As of December 31, 2023, the Company had outstanding letters of credit with various parties totaling $28,847. Substantially all of the outstanding letters of credit include amounts outstanding against the 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes. See Note 12 for further information. We do not expect any material loss to result from these letters of credit. Purchase and Capital Commitments Beverage Agreement The Company has an agreement with a beverage vendor, which provides fountain beverage products and certain marketing support funding to the Company and its franchisees. This agreement requires minimum purchases of certain fountain beverages (“Fountain Beverages”) by the Company and its franchisees at agreed upon prices until the total contractual gallon volume usage is reached. This agreement also provides for an annual advance to be paid to the Company based on the vendor’s expectation of the Company’s annual Fountain Beverages usage, which is amortized over actual usage during the year. In January 2019, the Company amended its contract with the beverage vendor, which now expires at the later of reaching a minimum usage requirement or December 31, 2025. Beverage purchases made by the Company under this agreement during 2023, 2022 and 2021 were $11,893, $10,545 and $9,709, respectively. The Company estimates future annual purchases to be approximately $12,400 in 2024 and $12,700 in 2025 based on current pricing and the expected ratio of usage at Company- operated restaurants to franchised restaurants. As of December 31, 2023, $3,906 was due to the beverage vendor and is included in “Accounts payable,” principally for annual estimated payments that exceeded usage under this agreement. Marketing Agreement |
Transactions with Related Parti
Transactions with Related Parties | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Related Party Transactions [Abstract] | |
Transactions with Related Parties | Transactions with Related Parties The following is a summary of transactions between the Company and its related parties: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Transactions with QSCC: Wendy’s Co-op (a) $ 363 $ 427 $ 279 Rental receipts (b) 231 198 217 TimWen lease and management fee payments, net (c) $ 20,653 $ 19,694 $ 18,687 Transactions with Yellow Cab (d) $ 14,757 $ 13,404 $ 9,869 Transactions with AMC (e) $ 2,366 $ — $ — _______________ Transactions with QSCC (a) Wendy’s has a purchasing co-op relationship structure (the “Wendy’s Co-op”) with its franchisees that establishes Quality Supply Chain Co-op, Inc. (“QSCC”). QSCC manages, for the Wendy’s system in the U.S. and Canada, contracts for the purchase and distribution of food, proprietary paper, operating supplies and equipment under national agreements with pricing based upon total system volume. QSCC’s supply chain management facilitates continuity of supply and provides consolidated purchasing efficiencies while monitoring and seeking to minimize possible obsolete inventory throughout the Wendy’s supply chain in the U.S. and Canada. Wendy’s and its franchisees pay sourcing fees to third-party vendors on certain products sourced by QSCC. Such sourcing fees are remitted by these vendors to QSCC and are the primary means of funding QSCC’s operations. Should QSCC’s sourcing fees exceed its expected needs, QSCC’s board of directors may return some or all of the excess to its members in the form of a patronage dividend. Wendy’s recorded its share of patronage dividends of $363, $427 and $279 in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which are included as a reduction of “Cost of sales.” (b) Pursuant to a lease agreement, Wendy’s leased 14,493 square feet of office space to QSCC for an annual base rent of $217. The lease was amended in June 2021 to increase both the leased square footage to 18,774 and the annual base rent to $250 beginning in 2023, subject to annual increases, and to extend the lease term through January 31, 2027. The Company received lease payments from QSCC of $231, $198 and $217 during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which has been recorded to “Franchise rental income.” TimWen Lease and Management Fee Payments (c) A wholly-owned subsidiary of Wendy’s leases restaurant facilities from TimWen, which are then subleased to franchisees for the operation of Wendy’s/Tim Hortons combo units in Canada. Wendy’s paid TimWen $20,894, $19,927 and $18,906 under these lease agreements during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which has been recorded to “Franchise rental expense.” In addition, TimWen paid Wendy’s a management fee under the TimWen joint venture agreement of $241, $233 and $219 during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which has been included as a reduction to “General and administrative.” Transactions with Yellow Cab (d) Certain family members and affiliates of Mr. Nelson Peltz, our Chairman, and Mr. Peter May, our Senior Vice Chairman, as well as Mr. Matthew Peltz, our Vice Chairman, hold indirect, minority ownership interests in Yellow Cab Holdings, LLC (“Yellow Cab”) and operating companies managed by Yellow Cab, a Wendy’s franchisee, that as of December 31, 2023 owned and operated 83 Wendy’s restaurants (including 54 restaurants acquired from NPC during the first quarter of 2021). During 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized $14,757, $13,404 and $9,869, respectively, in royalty, advertising fund, lease and other income from Yellow Cab and related entities. As of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, $1,153 and $1,125, respectively, was due from Yellow Cab for such income, which is included in “Accounts and notes receivable, net” and “Advertising funds restricted assets.” Transactions with AMC (e) In February 2023, Ms. Kristin Dolan, a director of the Company, was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of AMC Networks Inc. (“AMC”). During 2023, the Company purchased approximately $2,366 of advertising time from a subsidiary of AMC. The Company’s advertising spend with AMC was made in the ordinary course of business and approved on an arm’s-length basis, consistent with the Company’s comparable advertising decisions. As of December 31, 2023, approximately $584 was due to AMC for advertising time, which is included in “Advertising funds restricted liabilities.” |
Legal and Environmental Matters
Legal and Environmental Matters | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Loss Contingency [Abstract] | |
Legal and Environmental Matters | The Company is involved in litigation and claims incidental to our business. We provide accruals for such litigation and claims when we determine it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the loss is reasonably estimable. The Company believes it has adequate accruals for all of our legal and environmental matters. We cannot estimate the aggregate possible range of loss for our existing litigation and claims due to various reasons, including, but not limited to, many proceedings being in preliminary stages, with various motions either yet to be submitted or pending, discovery yet to occur, and significant factual matters unresolved. In addition, most cases seek an indeterminate amount of damages and many involve multiple parties. Predicting the outcomes of settlement discussions or judicial or arbitral decisions is thus inherently difficult and future developments could cause these actions or claims, individually or in aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of a particular reporting period. |
Advertising Costs and Funds
Advertising Costs and Funds | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Marketing and Advertising Expense [Abstract] | |
Advertising Costs and Funds | Advertising Costs and Funds We maintain the Advertising Funds established to collect and administer funds contributed for use in advertising and promotional programs. Contributions to the Advertising Funds are required from both Company-operated and franchised restaurants and are based on a percentage of restaurant sales. In addition to the contributions to the Advertising Funds, Company-operated and franchised restaurants make additional contributions to other local and regional advertising programs. Restricted assets and liabilities of the Advertising Funds at December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023 are as follows: Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Cash and cash equivalents $ 36,931 $ 50,709 Accounts receivable, net 76,838 70,422 Other assets 3,986 5,542 Advertising funds restricted assets $ 117,755 $ 126,673 Accounts payable $ 101,796 $ 115,339 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 18,762 16,968 Advertising funds restricted liabilities $ 120,558 $ 132,307 Advertising expenses included in “Cost of sales” totaled $38,837, $37,418 and $31,617 in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. |
Geographic Information
Geographic Information | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Segments, Geographical Areas [Abstract] | |
Geographic Information | Geographic Information The table below presents revenues and properties information by geographic area: U.S. International Total 2023 Revenues $ 2,007,727 $ 173,851 $ 2,181,578 Properties 830,492 60,588 891,080 2022 Revenues $ 1,946,005 $ 149,500 $ 2,095,505 Properties 841,143 54,635 895,778 2021 Revenues $ 1,771,997 $ 125,001 $ 1,896,998 Properties 856,841 50,026 906,867 |
Segment Information
Segment Information | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Segment Reporting [Abstract] | |
Segment Information | Segment Information The Company is comprised of the following segments: (1) Wendy’s U.S., (2) Wendy’s International and (3) Global Real Estate & Development. Wendy’s U.S. includes the operation and franchising of Wendy’s restaurants in the U.S. and derives its revenues from sales at Company-operated restaurants and royalties, fees and advertising fund collections from franchised restaurants. Wendy’s International includes the operation and franchising of Wendy’s restaurants in countries and territories other than the U.S. and derives its revenues from sales at Company-operated restaurants and royalties, fees and advertising fund collections from franchised restaurants. Global Real Estate & Development includes real estate activity for owned sites and sites leased from third parties, which are leased and/or subleased to franchisees, and also includes our share of the income of our TimWen real estate joint venture. In addition, Global Real Estate & Development earns fees from facilitating Franchise Flips and providing other development-related services to franchisees. The Company measures segment profit using segment adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”). Segment adjusted EBITDA excludes certain unallocated general and administrative expenses and other items that vary from period to period without correlation to the Company’s core operating performance. When the Company’s chief operating decision maker reviews balance sheet information, it is at a consolidated level. The accounting policies of the Company’s segments are the same as those described in Note 1. Revenues by segment are as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Wendy’s U.S. $ 1,815,845 $ 1,750,242 $ 1,567,496 Wendy’s International 130,548 106,705 86,369 Global Real Estate & Development 235,185 238,558 243,133 Total revenues $ 2,181,578 $ 2,095,505 $ 1,896,998 The following table reconciles profit by segment to the Company’s consolidated income before income taxes: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Wendy’s U.S. (a) $ 528,352 $ 480,498 $ 450,117 Wendy’s International (b) 35,704 30,432 27,386 Global Real Estate & Development 103,484 108,700 106,113 Total segment profit 667,540 619,630 583,616 Unallocated franchise support and other costs (831) (742) (753) Advertising funds surplus (deficit) 4,344 (8,325) 2,770 Unallocated general and administrative (c) (132,344) (130,103) (116,273) Depreciation and amortization (exclusive of amortization of cloud computing arrangements shown separately below) (135,789) (133,414) (125,540) Amortization of cloud computing arrangements (12,778) (2,394) — System optimization gains, net 880 6,779 33,545 Reorganization and realignment costs (9,200) (698) (8,548) Impairment of long-lived assets (1,401) (6,420) (2,251) Unallocated other operating income, net 1,563 9,001 394 Interest expense, net (124,061) (122,319) (109,185) Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt 2,283 — (17,917) Investment (loss) income, net (10,358) 2,107 39 Other income, net 29,570 10,403 681 Income before income taxes $ 279,418 $ 243,505 $ 240,578 _______________ (a) Wendy’s U.S. includes advertising funds expense of $11,000 and $25,000 for 2022 and 2021, respectively, related to the Company funding of incremental advertising. (b) Wendy’s International includes advertising fund expense of $2,401 and $4,116 for 2023 and 2022, respectively, related to the Company’s funding of incremental advertising. In addition, Wendy’s International includes other international-related advertising deficit of $950 and $1,099 for 2023 and 2022, respectively. (c) Includes corporate overhead costs, such as employee compensation and related benefits. |
Pay vs Performance Disclosure
Pay vs Performance Disclosure - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Pay vs Performance Disclosure | |||
Net income | $ 204,440 | $ 177,370 | $ 200,392 |
Insider Trading Arrangements
Insider Trading Arrangements - Gunther Plosch [Member] | 3 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 shares | |
Trading Arrangements, by Individual | |
Material Terms of Trading Arrangement | During the three months ended December 31, 2023, the following officers and directors (as defined in Rule 16a-1(f) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) of the Company took the following actions regarding trading arrangements with respect to our securities: On December 6, 2023, Gunther Plosch, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, adopted a trading arrangement that is intended to satisfy the affirmative defense of Rule 10b5-1(c) (the “10b5-1 Plan”). Between March 6, 2024 and February 28, 2025, the 10b5-1 Plan allows for (i) the potential sale of approximately 49,000 shares of the Company’s common stock and (ii) the potential exercise of stock options and the associated sale of up to 606,118 shares of the Company’s common stock. The 10b5-1 Plan will expire on February 28, 2025, or upon the earlier completion of all authorized transactions under the plan. Departure of Executive Officer On February 20, 2024, Kevin Vasconi, the Company’s Chief Information Officer, informed the Company of his intention to resign from the Company. Under the terms of his employment letter, because Mr. Vasconi provided notice of his intention to resign within 30 days of being required to report directly to an individual other than the Company’s former President and Chief Executive Officer, his resignation will be treated as a termination by the Company without “cause” for purposes of the Company’s Executive Severance Pay Policy. The Company and Mr. Vasconi have entered into an amendment to his employment letter pursuant to which the parties mutually agreed that Mr. Vasconi will remain with the Company as Executive Advisor to the President and CEO through May 31, 2024 to support an orderly transition of his duties. As noted above, Mr. Vasconi will be entitled to receive compensation and benefits consistent with a termination without “cause” as previously described in the “Employment Arrangements and Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control” section of the Company’s definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A for its 2023 annual meeting of stockholders filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2023. |
Name | Gunther Plosch |
Title | Chief Financial Officer |
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted | true |
Adoption Date | December 6, 2023 |
Termination Date | February 28, 2025 |
Sale of Company's Common Stock [Member] | |
Trading Arrangements, by Individual | |
Aggregate Available | 49,000 |
Exercise of Stock Options and Sale of Company's Common Stock [Member] | |
Trading Arrangements, by Individual | |
Aggregate Available | 606,118 |
Summary of Significant Accoun_2
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |
Principles of Consolidation, Policy | Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and include all of the Company’s subsidiaries. We also consider for consolidation entities in which we have certain interests, where the controlling financial interest may be achieved through arrangements that do not involve voting interests. Such an entity, known as a variable interest entity (“VIE”), is required to be consolidated by its primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is the entity that possesses the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact its economic performance and has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that are significant to it. The principal entities in which we possess a variable interest include the Company’s national advertising funds for the U.S. and Canada (the “Advertising Funds”). All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. |
Use of Estimates, Policy | The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates. |
Fiscal Year, Policy | Fiscal Year The Company’s fiscal reporting periods consist of 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Sunday closest to December 31 and are referred to herein as (1) “the year ended December 31, 2023” or “2023,” (2) “the year ended January 1, 2023” or “2022,” and (3) “the year ended January 2, 2022” or “2021,” all of which consisted of 52 weeks. All references to years, quarters and months relate to fiscal periods rather than calendar periods. |
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy | Cash and Cash Equivalents All highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when acquired are considered cash equivalents. The Company’s cash and cash equivalents principally consist of cash in bank and money market mutual fund accounts and are primarily not in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured accounts. We believe that our vulnerability to risk concentrations in our cash equivalents is mitigated by (1) our policies restricting the eligibility, credit quality and concentration limits for our placements in cash equivalents and (2) insurance from the Securities Investor Protection Corporation of up to $500 per account, as well as supplemental private insurance coverage maintained by substantially all of our brokerage firms, to the extent our cash equivalents are held in brokerage accounts. |
Restricted Cash, Policy | Restricted Cash In accordance with the Company’s securitized financing facility, certain cash accounts have been established with the trustee for the benefit of the trustee and the noteholders and are restricted in their use. Such restricted cash primarily represents cash collections and cash reserves held by the trustee to be used for payments of principal, interest and commitment fees required for the Company’s senior secured notes. Restricted cash also includes cash collected by the Advertising Funds, usage of which is restricted for advertising activities and is included in “Advertising funds restricted assets.” Refer to Note 7 for further information. |
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net, Policy | Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net Accounts and notes receivable, net, consist primarily of royalties, rents, property taxes and franchise fees due principally from franchisees, delivery-related receivables, credit card receivables, insurance receivables and refundable income taxes. Reserve estimates include consideration of the likelihood of default expected over the estimated life of the receivable. The Company periodically assesses the need for an allowance for doubtful accounts on its receivables based upon several key credit quality indicators such as outstanding past due balances, the financial strength of the obligor, the estimated fair value of any underlying collateral and agreement characteristics. We believe that our vulnerability to risk concentrations in our receivables is mitigated by (1) favorable historical collectability on past due balances, (2) recourse to the underlying collateral regarding sales-type and direct financing lease receivables, and (3) our expectations for fluctuations in general market conditions. Receivables are considered delinquent once they are contractually past due under the terms of the underlying agreements. See Note 7 for further information. |
Inventories, Policy | Inventories The Company’s inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value, with cost determined in accordance with the first-in, first-out method and consist primarily of restaurant food items and paper supplies. |
Cloud Computing Arrangements, Policy | Cloud Computing Arrangements (“CCA”) The Company capitalizes implementation costs associated with its CCA consistent with costs capitalized for internal-use software. Capitalized CCA implementation costs are included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets” and “Other assets.” The CCA implementation costs are amortized over the term of the related hosting agreement, including renewal periods that are reasonably certain to be exercised. Amortization expense of CCA implementation costs is recorded to “Amortization of cloud computing arrangements.” The CCA implementation costs are included within operating activities in the Company’s consolidated statements of cash flows. |
Properties and Depreciation and Amortization, Policy | Properties and Depreciation and Amortization Properties are stated at cost, including capitalized internal costs of employees to the extent such employees are dedicated to specific restaurant construction projects, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization of properties is computed principally on the straight-line basis using the following estimated useful lives of the related major classes of properties: three three seven The Company reviews properties for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. If such review indicates an asset group may not be recoverable, an impairment loss is recognized for the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of an asset group to be held and used or over the fair value less cost to sell of an asset to be disposed. See “Impairment of Long-Lived Assets” below for further information. The Company classifies assets as held for sale and ceases depreciation of the assets when there is a plan for disposal of the assets and those assets meet the held for sale criteria. Assets held for sale are included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets” in the consolidated balance sheets. |
Goodwill, Policy | Goodwill Goodwill, representing the excess of the cost of an acquired entity over the fair value of the acquired net assets, is not amortized. Goodwill associated with our Company-operated restaurants is reduced as a result of restaurant dispositions based on the relative fair values and is included in the carrying value of the restaurant in determining the gain or loss on disposal. If a Company-operated restaurant is sold within two years of being acquired from a franchisee, the goodwill associated with the acquisition is written off in its entirety. Goodwill has been assigned to reporting units for purposes of impairment testing. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset may be impaired. Our annual impairment test of goodwill may be completed through a qualitative assessment to determine if the fair value of the reporting unit is more likely than not greater than the carrying amount. If we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment for any reporting units, or if a qualitative assessment indicates it is more likely than not that the estimated carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, we perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test. Under the quantitative test, the fair value of the reporting unit is compared with its carrying value (including goodwill). If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. Our critical estimates in this impairment test include future sales growth, operating profit, terminal value growth rates and the weighted average cost of capital (discount rate). We also utilize other key inputs such as income tax rates and capital expenditures to derive fair value. Our fair value estimates are subject to change as a result of many factors including, among others, any changes in our business plans, changing economic conditions and the competitive environment. Should actual cash flows and our future estimates vary adversely from those estimates we use, we may be required to recognize goodwill impairment charges in future years. |
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets, Policy | Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Our long-lived assets include (1) properties and related definite-lived intangible assets (e.g., favorable leases) that are leased and/or subleased to franchisees, (2) Company-operated restaurant assets and related definite-lived intangible assets, which include reacquired rights under franchise agreements, and (3) finance and operating lease assets. We review our long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. We assess the recoverability of our long-lived assets by comparing the carrying amount of the asset group to future undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated through leases and/or subleases or by our individual Company-operated restaurants. If the carrying amount of the long-lived asset group is not recoverable on an undiscounted cash flow basis, then impairment is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds its fair value and is included in “Impairment of long-lived assets.” Our critical estimates in this review process include the anticipated future cash flows from leases and/or subleases or individual Company-operated restaurants, which is used in assessing the recoverability of the respective long-lived assets. Our fair value estimates are subject to change as a result of many factors including, among others, any changes in our business plans, changing economic conditions and the competitive environment. Should actual cash flows and our future estimates vary adversely from those estimates we used, we may be required to recognize additional impairment charges in future years. |
Other Intangible Assets, Policy | Other Intangible Assets Definite-lived intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis using the following estimated useful lives of the related classes of intangibles: for favorable leases, the terms of the respective leases, including periods covered by renewal options that the Company as lessor is reasonably certain the tenant will exercise; one two The Company reviews definite-lived intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the intangible asset may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment at least annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the assets may be impaired. Our annual impairment test for indefinite-lived intangible assets may be completed through a qualitative assessment to determine if the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets is more likely than not greater than the carrying amount. If we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment, or if a qualitative assessment indicates it is more likely than not that the estimated carrying value exceeds the fair value, we test for impairment using a quantitative process. If the Company determines that impairment of its intangible assets may exist, the amount of impairment loss is measured as the excess of carrying value over fair value. Our critical estimates in the determination of the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets include the anticipated future revenues of Company-operated and franchised restaurants and the resulting cash flows. |
Investments, Policy | Investments The Company has a 50% share in a partnership in a Canadian restaurant real estate joint venture (“TimWen”) with a subsidiary of Restaurant Brands International Inc., a quick-service restaurant company that owns the Tim Hortons ® brand (Tim Hortons is a registered trademark of Tim Hortons USA Inc.). In addition, the Company has a 20% share in a joint venture in Brazil (the “Brazil JV”). The Company has significant influence over these investees. Such investments are accounted for using the equity method, under which our results of operations include our share of the income (loss) of the investees in “Other operating income, net.” Cash distributions and dividends received that are determined to be returns of capital are recorded as a reduction of the carrying value of our investments and returns on our investments are recorded to “Investment (loss) income, net.” The difference between the carrying value of our TimWen equity investment and the underlying equity in the historical net assets of the investee is accounted for as if the investee were a consolidated subsidiary. Accordingly, the carrying value difference is amortized over the estimated lives of the assets of the investee to which such difference would have been allocated if the equity investment were a consolidated subsidiary. To the extent the carrying value difference represents goodwill, it is not amortized. Other investments in equity securities in which the Company does not have significant influence, and for which there is not a readily determinable fair value, are recorded at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for an identical or similar investment of the same issuer. Realized gains and losses are reported as income or loss in the period in which the securities are sold or otherwise disposed. |
Share-based Compensation, Policy | Share-Based Compensation The Company has granted share-based compensation awards to certain employees under several equity plans (the “Equity Plans”). The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for an equity award, which include grants of employee stock options and restricted shares, based on the fair value of the award at the date of grant. Share-based compensation expense is recognized net of estimated forfeitures, determined based on historical experience. The Company recognizes share-based compensation expense over the requisite service period unless the awards are subject to performance conditions, in which case we recognize compensation expense over the requisite service period to the extent performance conditions are considered probable. The Company determines the grant date fair value of stock options using a Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model (the “Black-Scholes Model”). The grant date fair value of restricted share awards (“RSAs”), restricted share units (“RSUs”) and performance-based awards are determined using the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant, as set forth in the applicable plan document, unless the awards are subject to market conditions, in which case we use a Monte Carlo simulation model. The Monte Carlo simulation model utilizes multiple input variables to estimate the probability that market conditions will be achieved. |
Foreign Currency Translation, Policy | Foreign Currency Translation The Company’s primary foreign operations are in Canada where the functional currency is the Canadian dollar. Financial statements of foreign subsidiaries are prepared in their functional currency and then translated into U.S. dollars. Assets and liabilities are translated at the exchange rate as of the balance sheet date and revenues, costs and expenses are translated at a monthly average exchange rate. Net gains or losses resulting from the translation are recorded to the “Foreign currency translation adjustment” component of “Accumulated other comprehensive loss.” Gains and losses arising from the impact of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on transactions in foreign currency are included in “General and administrative.” |
Income Taxes, Policy | Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method. A deferred tax asset or liability is recognized whenever there are (1) future tax effects from temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and (2) operating loss, capital loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to the years in which those differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent the Company believes these assets will more likely than not be realized. In evaluating the realizability of deferred tax assets, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including the interaction and the timing of future reversals of existing temporary differences, projected future taxable income, recent operating results and tax-planning strategies. When considered necessary, a valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying amount of the deferred tax assets to their anticipated realizable value. The Company records uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two-step process whereby we first determine if it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. A tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is then measured for purposes of financial statement recognition as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon being effectively settled. Interest accrued for uncertain tax positions is charged to “Interest expense, net.” Penalties accrued for uncertain tax positions are charged to “General and administrative.” |
Restaurant Acquisitions, Policy | Restaurant Acquisitions and Dispositions The Company accounts for the acquisition of restaurants from franchisees using the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations. The acquisition method of accounting involves the allocation of the purchase price to the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. This allocation process requires the use of estimates and assumptions to derive fair values and to complete the allocation. The excess of the purchase price over the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed represents goodwill derived from the acquisition. See “Goodwill” above for further information. |
Revenue Recognition, Policy | In connection with the sale of Company-operated restaurants to franchisees, the Company typically enters into several agreements, in addition to an asset purchase agreement, with franchisees including franchise, development, relationship and lease agreements. The Company typically sells restaurants’ cash, inventory and equipment and retains ownership or the leasehold interest to the real estate to lease and/or sublease to the franchisee. The Company has determined that its restaurant dispositions usually represent multiple-element arrangements, and as such, the cash consideration received is allocated to the separate elements based on their relative selling price. Cash consideration generally includes up-front consideration for the sale of the restaurants, technical assistance fees and development fees and future cash consideration for royalties and lease payments. The Company considers the future lease payments in allocating the initial cash consideration received. The Company obtains third-party evidence to estimate the relative selling price of the stated rent under the lease and/or sublease agreements which is primarily based upon comparable market rents. Based on the Company’s review of the third-party evidence, the Company records favorable or unfavorable lease assets/liabilities with a corresponding offset to the gain or loss on the sale of the restaurants. The cash consideration per restaurant for technical assistance fees and development fees is consistent with the amounts stated in the related franchise agreements which are charged for separate standalone arrangements. The Company recognizes the technical assistance and development fees over the contractual term of the franchise agreements. Future royalty income is also recognized in revenue as earned. See “Revenue Recognition” below for further information. Revenue Recognition “Sales” includes revenues recognized upon delivery of food to the customer at Company-operated restaurants. “Sales” excludes taxes collected from the Company’s customers. Revenue is recognized when the food is purchased by the customer, which is when our performance obligation is satisfied. “Sales” also includes income for gift cards. Gift card payments are recorded as deferred income when received and are recognized as revenue upon redemption. “Franchise royalty revenue and fees” includes royalties, new build technical assistance fees, renewal fees, franchisee-to- franchisee restaurant transfer (“Franchise Flip”) technical assistance fees, Franchise Flip advisory fees, development fees and information technology and other fees. Royalties from franchised restaurants are based on a percentage of sales of the franchised restaurant and are recognized as earned. New build technical assistance fees, renewal fees and Franchise Flip technical assistance fees are recorded as deferred revenue when received and recognized as revenue over the contractual term of the franchise agreements, once the restaurant has opened. Development fees are deferred when received, allocated to each agreed upon restaurant, and recognized as revenue over the contractual term of each respective franchise agreement, once the restaurant has opened. These franchise fees are considered highly dependent upon and interrelated with the franchise right granted in the franchise agreement. Franchise Flip advisory fees include valuation services and fees for selecting pre-approved buyers for Franchise Flips. Franchise Flip advisory fees are paid by the seller and are recognized as revenue at closing of the Franchise Flip transaction. Information technology and other fees are recognized as revenue as earned. “Franchise rental income” includes rental income from properties owned and leased by the Company and leased or subleased to franchisees. Rental income is recognized on a straight-line basis over the respective operating lease terms. Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts related to the leased and/or subleased properties are amortized to rental income on a straight-line basis over the remaining term of the leases. “Advertising funds revenue” includes contributions to the Advertising Funds by franchisees. Revenue related to these contributions is based on a percentage of sales of the franchised restaurants and is recognized as earned. |
Cost of Sales, Policy | Cost of Sales Cost of sales includes food and paper, restaurant labor and occupancy, advertising and other operating costs relating to Company-operated restaurants. Cost of sales excludes depreciation and amortization expense. |
Vendor Incentives, Policy | Vendor Incentives The Company receives incentives from certain vendors. These incentives are recognized as earned and are classified as a reduction of “Cost of sales.” |
Advertising Costs, Policy | Advertising Costs Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included in “Cost of sales” and “Advertising funds expense.” Production costs of advertising are expensed when the advertisement is first released. |
Franchise Support and Other Costs, Policy | Franchise Support and Other Costs The Company incurs costs to provide direct support services to our franchisees, as well as certain other direct and incremental costs to the Company’s franchise operations. These costs primarily relate to franchise development services, facilitating Franchise Flips and information technology services, which are charged to “Franchise support and other costs,” as incurred. |
Self-insurance, Policy | Self-Insurance The Company is self-insured for most workers’ compensation losses and health care claims and purchases insurance for general liability and automotive liability losses, all subject to a $500 per occurrence retention or deductible limit. The Company provides for their estimated cost to settle both known claims and claims incurred but not yet reported. Liabilities associated with these claims are estimated, in part, by considering the frequency and severity of historical claims, both specific to us, as well as industry-wide loss experience and other actuarial assumptions. We determine our insurance obligations with the assistance of actuarial firms. Since there are many estimates and assumptions involved in recording insurance liabilities and in the case of workers’ compensation a significant period of time elapses before the ultimate resolution of claims, differences between actual future events and prior estimates and assumptions could result in adjustments to these liabilities. |
Lessee, Leases, Policy | Leases Determination of Whether a Contract Contains a Lease The Company evaluates the contracts it enters into to determine whether such contracts contain leases. A contract contains a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of identified property, plant or equipment for a period of time in exchange for consideration. At commencement, contracts containing a lease are further evaluated for classification as an operating or finance lease where the Company is a lessee, or as an operating, sales-type or direct financing lease where the Company is a lessor, based on their terms. ROU Model and Determination of Lease Term The Company uses the right-of-use (“ROU”) model to account for leases where the Company is the lessee, which requires an entity to recognize a lease liability and ROU asset on the lease commencement date. A lease liability is measured equal to the present value of the remaining lease payments over the lease term and is discounted using the incremental borrowing rate, as the rate implicit in the Company’s leases is not readily determinable. The incremental borrowing rate is the rate of interest that the Company would have to pay to borrow, on a collateralized basis over a similar term, an amount equal to the lease payments in a similar economic environment. Lease payments include payments made before the commencement date and any residual value guarantees, if applicable. The initial ROU asset consists of the initial measurement of the lease liability, adjusted for any favorable or unfavorable terms for leases acquired from franchisees, as well as payments made before the commencement date, initial direct costs and lease incentives earned. When determining the lease term, the Company includes option periods that it is reasonably certain to exercise as failure to renew the lease would impose a significant economic detriment. For properties used for Company-operated restaurants, the primary economic detriment relates to the existence of unamortized leasehold improvements which might be impaired if we choose not to exercise the available renewal options. The lease term for properties leased or subleased to franchisees is determined based upon the economic detriment to the franchisee and includes consideration of the length of the franchise agreement and historical performance of the restaurant. Lease terms for real estate are generally initially between 15 and 20 years and, in most cases, provide for rent escalations and renewal options. Operating Leases For operating leases, minimum lease payments or receipts, including minimum scheduled rent increases, are recognized as rent expense where the Company is a lessee, or income where the Company is a lessor, as applicable, on a straight-line basis (“Straight-Line Rent”) over the applicable lease terms. There is a period under certain lease agreements referred to as a rent holiday (“Rent Holiday”) that generally begins on the possession date and ends on the rent commencement date. During a Rent Holiday, no cash rent payments are typically due under the terms of the lease; however, expense is recorded for that period on a straight-line basis. The excess of the Straight-Line Rent over the minimum rents paid is included in the ROU asset where the Company is a lessee. The excess of the Straight-Line Rent over the minimum rents received is recorded as a deferred lease asset and is included in “Other assets” where the Company is a lessor. Certain leases contain provisions, referred to as contingent rent (“Contingent Rent”), that require additional rental payments based upon restaurant sales volume. Contingent Rent is recognized each period as the liability is incurred or the asset is earned. Lease cost for operating leases includes the amortization of the ROU asset and interest expense related to the operating lease liability. Variable lease cost for operating leases includes Contingent Rent and payments for executory costs such as real estate taxes, insurance and common area maintenance, which are excluded from the measurement of the lease liability. Short-term lease cost for operating leases includes rental expense for leases with a term of less than 12 months. Lease costs are recorded in the consolidated statements of operations based on the nature of the underlying lease as follows: (1) rental expense related to leases for Company-operated restaurants is recorded to “Cost of sales,” (2) rental expense for leased properties that are subsequently subleased to franchisees is recorded to “Franchise rental expense” and (3) rental expense related to leases for corporate offices and equipment is recorded to “General and administrative.” Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts for operating leases where the Company is the lessor are recorded as components of “Other intangible assets” and “Other liabilities,” respectively. Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the leases. Rental income and favorable and unfavorable lease amortization for operating leases on properties leased or subleased to franchisees is recorded to “Franchise rental income.” Lessees’ variable payments to the Company for executory costs under operating leases are recognized on a gross basis as “Franchise rental income” with a corresponding expense recorded to “Franchise rental expense.” Finance Leases Lease cost for finance leases where the Company is the lessee includes the amortization of the ROU asset, which is amortized on a straight-line basis and recorded to “Depreciation and amortization (exclusive of amortization of cloud computing arrangements shown separately below),” and interest expense on the finance lease liability, which is calculated using the interest method and recorded to “Interest expense, net.” Finance lease ROU assets are amortized over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the terms of the respective leases, including periods covered by renewal options that the Company is reasonably certain of exercising. Sales-Type and Direct Financing Leases For sales-type and direct financing leases where the Company is the lessor, the Company records its investment in properties leased to franchisees on a net basis, which is comprised of the present value of the lease payments not yet received and the present value of the guaranteed and unguaranteed residual assets. The current and long-term portions of our net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases are included in “Accounts and notes receivable, net” and “Net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases,” respectively. Unearned income is recognized as interest income over the lease term and is included in “Interest expense, net.” Sales-type leases result in the recognition of gain or loss at the commencement of the lease, which is recorded to “Other operating income, net.” The gain or loss recognized upon commencement of the lease is directly affected by the Company’s estimate of the amount to be derived from the guaranteed and unguaranteed residual assets at the end of the lease term. The Company’s main component of this estimate is the expected fair value of the underlying assets, primarily the fair value of land. Lessees’ variable payments to the Company for executory costs under sales-type and direct financing leases are recognized on a gross basis as “Franchise rental income” with a corresponding expense recorded to “Franchise rental expense.” Significant Assumptions and Judgments Management makes certain estimates and assumptions regarding each new lease and sublease agreement, renewal and amendment, including, but not limited to, property values, market rents, property lives, discount rates and probable term, all of which can impact (1) the classification and accounting for a lease or sublease as operating or finance, including sales-type and direct financing, (2) the Rent Holiday and escalations in payment that are taken into consideration when calculating Straight-Line Rent, (3) the term over which leasehold improvements for each restaurant are amortized and (4) the values and lives of adjustments to the initial ROU asset where the Company is the lessee, or favorable and unfavorable leases where the Company is the lessor. The amount of depreciation and amortization, interest and rent expense and income reported would vary if different estimates and assumptions were used. |
Lessor, Leases, Policy | Leases Determination of Whether a Contract Contains a Lease The Company evaluates the contracts it enters into to determine whether such contracts contain leases. A contract contains a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of identified property, plant or equipment for a period of time in exchange for consideration. At commencement, contracts containing a lease are further evaluated for classification as an operating or finance lease where the Company is a lessee, or as an operating, sales-type or direct financing lease where the Company is a lessor, based on their terms. ROU Model and Determination of Lease Term The Company uses the right-of-use (“ROU”) model to account for leases where the Company is the lessee, which requires an entity to recognize a lease liability and ROU asset on the lease commencement date. A lease liability is measured equal to the present value of the remaining lease payments over the lease term and is discounted using the incremental borrowing rate, as the rate implicit in the Company’s leases is not readily determinable. The incremental borrowing rate is the rate of interest that the Company would have to pay to borrow, on a collateralized basis over a similar term, an amount equal to the lease payments in a similar economic environment. Lease payments include payments made before the commencement date and any residual value guarantees, if applicable. The initial ROU asset consists of the initial measurement of the lease liability, adjusted for any favorable or unfavorable terms for leases acquired from franchisees, as well as payments made before the commencement date, initial direct costs and lease incentives earned. When determining the lease term, the Company includes option periods that it is reasonably certain to exercise as failure to renew the lease would impose a significant economic detriment. For properties used for Company-operated restaurants, the primary economic detriment relates to the existence of unamortized leasehold improvements which might be impaired if we choose not to exercise the available renewal options. The lease term for properties leased or subleased to franchisees is determined based upon the economic detriment to the franchisee and includes consideration of the length of the franchise agreement and historical performance of the restaurant. Lease terms for real estate are generally initially between 15 and 20 years and, in most cases, provide for rent escalations and renewal options. Operating Leases For operating leases, minimum lease payments or receipts, including minimum scheduled rent increases, are recognized as rent expense where the Company is a lessee, or income where the Company is a lessor, as applicable, on a straight-line basis (“Straight-Line Rent”) over the applicable lease terms. There is a period under certain lease agreements referred to as a rent holiday (“Rent Holiday”) that generally begins on the possession date and ends on the rent commencement date. During a Rent Holiday, no cash rent payments are typically due under the terms of the lease; however, expense is recorded for that period on a straight-line basis. The excess of the Straight-Line Rent over the minimum rents paid is included in the ROU asset where the Company is a lessee. The excess of the Straight-Line Rent over the minimum rents received is recorded as a deferred lease asset and is included in “Other assets” where the Company is a lessor. Certain leases contain provisions, referred to as contingent rent (“Contingent Rent”), that require additional rental payments based upon restaurant sales volume. Contingent Rent is recognized each period as the liability is incurred or the asset is earned. Lease cost for operating leases includes the amortization of the ROU asset and interest expense related to the operating lease liability. Variable lease cost for operating leases includes Contingent Rent and payments for executory costs such as real estate taxes, insurance and common area maintenance, which are excluded from the measurement of the lease liability. Short-term lease cost for operating leases includes rental expense for leases with a term of less than 12 months. Lease costs are recorded in the consolidated statements of operations based on the nature of the underlying lease as follows: (1) rental expense related to leases for Company-operated restaurants is recorded to “Cost of sales,” (2) rental expense for leased properties that are subsequently subleased to franchisees is recorded to “Franchise rental expense” and (3) rental expense related to leases for corporate offices and equipment is recorded to “General and administrative.” Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts for operating leases where the Company is the lessor are recorded as components of “Other intangible assets” and “Other liabilities,” respectively. Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the leases. Rental income and favorable and unfavorable lease amortization for operating leases on properties leased or subleased to franchisees is recorded to “Franchise rental income.” Lessees’ variable payments to the Company for executory costs under operating leases are recognized on a gross basis as “Franchise rental income” with a corresponding expense recorded to “Franchise rental expense.” Finance Leases Lease cost for finance leases where the Company is the lessee includes the amortization of the ROU asset, which is amortized on a straight-line basis and recorded to “Depreciation and amortization (exclusive of amortization of cloud computing arrangements shown separately below),” and interest expense on the finance lease liability, which is calculated using the interest method and recorded to “Interest expense, net.” Finance lease ROU assets are amortized over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the terms of the respective leases, including periods covered by renewal options that the Company is reasonably certain of exercising. Sales-Type and Direct Financing Leases For sales-type and direct financing leases where the Company is the lessor, the Company records its investment in properties leased to franchisees on a net basis, which is comprised of the present value of the lease payments not yet received and the present value of the guaranteed and unguaranteed residual assets. The current and long-term portions of our net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases are included in “Accounts and notes receivable, net” and “Net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases,” respectively. Unearned income is recognized as interest income over the lease term and is included in “Interest expense, net.” Sales-type leases result in the recognition of gain or loss at the commencement of the lease, which is recorded to “Other operating income, net.” The gain or loss recognized upon commencement of the lease is directly affected by the Company’s estimate of the amount to be derived from the guaranteed and unguaranteed residual assets at the end of the lease term. The Company’s main component of this estimate is the expected fair value of the underlying assets, primarily the fair value of land. Lessees’ variable payments to the Company for executory costs under sales-type and direct financing leases are recognized on a gross basis as “Franchise rental income” with a corresponding expense recorded to “Franchise rental expense.” Significant Assumptions and Judgments Management makes certain estimates and assumptions regarding each new lease and sublease agreement, renewal and amendment, including, but not limited to, property values, market rents, property lives, discount rates and probable term, all of which can impact (1) the classification and accounting for a lease or sublease as operating or finance, including sales-type and direct financing, (2) the Rent Holiday and escalations in payment that are taken into consideration when calculating Straight-Line Rent, (3) the term over which leasehold improvements for each restaurant are amortized and (4) the values and lives of adjustments to the initial ROU asset where the Company is the lessee, or favorable and unfavorable leases where the Company is the lessor. The amount of depreciation and amortization, interest and rent expense and income reported would vary if different estimates and assumptions were used. |
Concentration of Risk, Policy | Concentration of Risk Wendy’s had no customers which accounted for 10% or more of consolidated revenues in 2023, 2022 or 2021. As of December 31, 2023, Wendy’s had one main in-line distributor of food, packaging and beverage products, excluding breads, that serviced approximately 67% of Wendy’s restaurants in the U.S. and four additional in-line distributors that, in the aggregate, serviced approximately 32% of Wendy’s restaurants in the U.S. We believe that our vulnerability to risk concentrations related to significant vendors and sources of our raw materials is mitigated as we believe that there are other vendors who would be able to service our requirements. However, if a disruption of service from any of our in-line distributors was to occur, we could experience short-term increases in our costs while distribution channels were adjusted. Wendy’s restaurants are principally located throughout the U.S. and to a lesser extent, in 32 foreign countries and U.S. territories, with the largest number in Canada. Wendy’s U.S. restaurants are located in 50 states and the District of Columbia, with the largest number in Florida, Texas, Ohio, Georgia, California, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Michigan. Because our restaurant operations are generally located throughout the U.S. and to a much lesser extent, Canada and other foreign countries and U.S. territories, we believe the risk of geographic concentration is not significant. We could be adversely affected by changing consumer preferences resulting from concerns over nutritional or safety aspects of beef, chicken, eggs, pork, french fries or other products we sell or the effects of food safety events or disease outbreaks. Our exposure to foreign exchange risk is primarily related to fluctuations in the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar for our Canadian operations. However, our exposure to Canadian dollar foreign currency risk is mitigated by the fact that there are no Company-operated restaurants in Canada and less than 10% of Wendy’s franchised restaurants are in Canada. The Company is subject to credit risk through its accounts receivable consisting primarily of amounts due from franchisees for royalties, franchise fees and rent. In addition, we have notes receivable from certain of our franchisees. The financial condition of these franchisees is largely dependent upon the underlying business trends of the Wendy’s brand and market conditions within the quick-service restaurant industry. This concentration of credit risk is mitigated, in part, by the number of franchisees and the short-term nature of the franchise receivables. |
New Accounting Standards and New Accounting Standards Adopted, Policy | New Accounting Standards Adopted Reference Rate Reform In March 2020, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued guidance to provide temporary optional expedients and exceptions to current reference rate reform guidance to ease the financial reporting burdens related to the market transition from the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) and other interbank offered rates to alternative reference rates. During 2023, certain of the Company’s subsidiaries executed amendments to the 2021-1 Variable Funding Senior Secured Notes, Class A-1 and the U.S. advertising fund revolving line of credit to transition from LIBOR to the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”), plus any applicable margin. In connection with these contract amendments, the Company adopted the reference rate reform guidance during the second quarter of 2023. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Business Combinations In October 2021, the FASB issued an amendment to improve the accounting for revenue contracts with customers acquired in a business combination. The amendment requires contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination to be recognized and measured by the acquirer on the acquisition date in accordance with current revenue recognition guidance as if the acquirer had originated the contracts. The Company adopted this amendment during the first quarter of 2023. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. New Accounting Standards Income Tax Disclosures In December 2023, the FASB issued an amendment to enhance its income tax disclosure requirements. The amendment requires annual disclosure of specific categories in the rate reconciliation and additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold. The amendment also requires annual disclosure of income taxes paid disaggregated by federal, state and foreign taxes and by individual jurisdictions in which income taxes paid is equal to or greater than 5% of total income taxes paid. The amendment is effective commencing with our 2025 fiscal year. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements. Reportable Segment Disclosures In November 2023, the FASB issued an amendment to enhance reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. In addition, the amendment enhances interim disclosure requirements, clarifies circumstances in which an entity can disclose multiple segment measures of profit or loss and provides new segment disclosure requirements for entities with a single reportable segment. The amendment is effective commencing with our 2024 fiscal year. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements. Common-Control Lease Arrangements In March 2023, the FASB issued an update to amend certain lease accounting guidance that applies to arrangements between related parties under common control. The amendment requires a lessee in a common-control lease arrangement to amortize leasehold improvements that it owns over the useful life of the improvements to the common-control group, regardless of the lease term, if the lessee continues to control the use of the underlying asset through a lease. The standard is effective beginning with our 2024 fiscal year. The Company does not expect the guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. |
Revenue (Tables)
Revenue (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Revenue [Abstract] | |
Disaggregation of Revenue | The following tables disaggregate revenue by segment and source for 2023, 2022 and 2021: Wendy’s U.S. Wendy’s International Global Real Estate & Development Total 2023 Sales at Company-operated restaurants $ 905,700 $ 24,383 $ — $ 930,083 Franchise royalty revenue 444,653 67,506 — 512,159 Franchise fees 68,749 6,406 5,017 80,172 Franchise rental income — — 230,168 230,168 Advertising funds revenue 396,743 32,253 — 428,996 Total revenues $ 1,815,845 $ 130,548 $ 235,185 $ 2,181,578 2022 Sales at Company-operated restaurants $ 882,684 $ 13,901 $ — $ 896,585 Franchise royalty revenue 423,955 61,533 — 485,488 Franchise fees 63,112 5,542 4,093 72,747 Franchise rental income — — 234,465 234,465 Advertising funds revenue 380,491 25,729 — 406,220 Total revenues $ 1,750,242 $ 106,705 $ 238,558 $ 2,095,505 2021 Sales at Company-operated restaurants $ 730,415 $ 3,659 $ — $ 734,074 Franchise royalty revenue 407,317 53,392 — 460,709 Franchise fees 64,170 5,391 6,478 76,039 Franchise rental income — — 236,655 236,655 Advertising funds revenue 365,594 23,927 — 389,521 Total revenues $ 1,567,496 $ 86,369 $ 243,133 $ 1,896,998 |
Contract Balances, assets and liabilities | The following table provides information about receivables and contract liabilities (deferred franchise fees) from contracts with customers: Year End December 31, January 1, Receivables, which are included in “Accounts and notes receivable, net” (b) $ 55,293 $ 54,497 Receivables, which are included in “Advertising funds restricted assets” 76,838 70,422 Deferred franchise fees (c) 100,805 99,208 _______________ (a) Excludes funds collected from the sale of gift cards, which are primarily reimbursed to franchisees upon redemption at franchised restaurants and do not ultimately result in the recognition of revenue in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations. (b) Includes receivables related to “Sales” and “Franchise royalty revenue and fees.” (c) Deferred franchise fees are included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” and “Deferred franchise fees” and totaled $10,673 and $90,132, respectively, as of December 31, 2023, and $8,977 and $90,231, respectively, as of January 1, 2023. |
Contract Balances, deferred franchise fee rollforward | Significant changes in deferred franchise fees are as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Deferred franchise fees at beginning of period $ 99,208 $ 97,186 $ 97,785 Revenue recognized during the period (12,242) (11,567) (19,838) New deferrals due to cash received and other 13,839 13,589 19,239 Deferred franchise fees at end of period $ 100,805 $ 99,208 $ 97,186 |
Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fee | The following table reflects the estimated franchise fees to be recognized in the future related to performance obligations that are unsatisfied at the end of the period: Estimate for fiscal year: 2024 (a) $ 10,673 2025 6,483 2026 6,354 2027 6,255 2028 6,136 Thereafter 64,904 $ 100,805 _______________ (a) Includes development-related franchise fees expected to be recognized over a duration of one year or less. |
Acquisitions (Tables)
Acquisitions (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Business Combinations [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition | The table below presents the allocation of the total purchase price to the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed for restaurants acquired from a franchisee: Year Ended 2021 (a) Restaurants acquired from franchisee (b) 93 Total consideration paid, net of cash received $ 127,948 Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed: Properties 21,984 Acquired franchise rights 81,239 Finance lease assets 25,547 Operating lease assets 44,282 Finance lease liabilities (25,059) Operating lease liabilities (43,478) Other (9) Total identifiable net assets 104,506 Goodwill $ 23,442 _______________ (a) The fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed related to restaurants acquired in 2021 were provisional amounts as of January 2, 2022, pending final purchase accounting adjustments. The Company finalized the purchase price allocation during 2022, which resulted in an increase in cash received of $260. (b) Included two restaurants under construction and not operating as of January 2, 2022. |
System Optimization Gains, Net
System Optimization Gains, Net (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
System optimization gains, net | |
Summary of Disposition Activity | Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Land $ 373,634 $ 371,347 Buildings and improvements 519,244 510,685 Leasehold improvements 432,051 422,330 Office, restaurant and transportation equipment 344,623 314,223 1,669,552 1,618,585 Accumulated depreciation and amortization (778,472) (722,807) $ 891,080 $ 895,778 |
System Optimization | |
System optimization gains, net | |
Summary of Disposition Activity | The following is a summary of the disposition activity recorded as a result of our system optimization initiative: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Number of restaurants sold to franchisees — 1 47 Proceeds from sales of restaurants (a) $ — $ 79 $ 50,518 Net assets sold (b) — (141) (16,939) Goodwill related to sales of restaurants — — (4,847) Net unfavorable leases (c) — (360) (2,939) Gain on sales-type leases — — 7,156 Other (d) — 6 (2,148) — (416) 30,801 Post-closing adjustments on sales of restaurants (e) (f) 858 2,877 1,218 Gain on sales of restaurants, net 858 2,461 32,019 Gain on sales of other assets, net (g) 22 4,318 1,526 System optimization gains, net $ 880 $ 6,779 $ 33,545 _______________ (a) In addition to the proceeds noted herein, the Company received cash proceeds of $378 and $39 during 2022 and 2021, respectively, related to a note receivable issued in connection with the sale of the Manhattan Company-operated restaurants. (b) Net assets sold consisted primarily of equipment. (c) During 2021, the Company recorded favorable lease assets of $3,799 and unfavorable lease liabilities of $6,738 as a result of leasing and/or subleasing land, buildings and/or leasehold improvements to franchisees, in connection with the sale of the New York Company-operated restaurants (including Manhattan). (d) 2021 includes a deferred gain of $3,500 as a result of certain contingencies related to the extension of lease terms. (e) 2021 includes a gain on sales-type leases of $1,625 and the write-off of certain lease assets of $927 as a result of an amendment to lease terms in connection with a Manhattan Company-operated restaurant previously sold to a franchisee. (f) 2023, 2022 and 2021 include the recognition of deferred gains of $858, $3,522 and $515, respectively, as a result of the resolution of certain contingencies related to the extension of lease terms for restaurants previously sold to franchisees. (g) During 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company received cash proceeds of $2,115, $7,780 and $4,561, respectively, primarily from the sale of surplus and other properties. |
Reorganization and Realignmen_2
Reorganization and Realignment Costs (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |
Restructuring and Related Costs | The following is a summary of the initiatives included in “ Reorganization and realignment costs Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Organizational Redesign Plan $ 9,064 $ — $ — System optimization initiative 136 611 6,852 Other reorganization and realignment plans — 87 1,696 Reorganization and realignment costs $ 9,200 $ 698 $ 8,548 |
Organizational Redesign | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |
Restructuring and Related Costs | The following is a summary of the costs recorded as a result of the Organizational Redesign Plan: Year Ended 2023 Severance and related employee costs $ 6,243 Recruitment and relocation costs 554 Third-party and other costs 996 7,793 Share-based compensation (a) 1,271 Total organizational redesign $ 9,064 _______________ (a) Primarily represents the accelerated recognition of share-based compensation resulting from the termination of employees under the Organizational Redesign Plan. |
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost | The table below presents a rollforward of our accruals for the Organizational Redesign Plan, which are included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” as of December 31, 2023. Balance January 1, 2023 Charges Payments Balance December 31, 2023 Severance and related employee costs $ — $ 6,243 $ (4,551) $ 1,692 Recruitment and relocation costs — 554 (554) — Third-party and other costs — 996 (996) — $ — $ 7,793 $ (6,101) $ 1,692 |
System Optimization Initiative | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |
Restructuring and Related Costs | The following is a summary of the costs recorded as a result of our system optimization initiative: Year Ended Total Incurred Since Inception 2023 2022 2021 Severance and related employee costs $ — $ 4 $ 661 $ 18,902 Professional fees 3 395 1,570 24,075 Other (a) 73 145 1,765 7,836 76 544 3,996 50,813 Accelerated depreciation and amortization (b) — — — 25,398 NPC lease termination costs (c) 60 67 2,856 2,983 Share-based compensation (d) — — — 5,013 Total system optimization initiative $ 136 $ 611 $ 6,852 $ 84,207 _______________ (a) 2021 includes transaction fees of $1,350 associated with the NPC bankruptcy sale process. (b) Primarily includes accelerated amortization of previously acquired franchise rights related to the Company-operated restaurants in territories that have been sold to franchisees in connection with our system optimization initiative. (c) 2021 includes the write-off of lease assets of $1,376 and lease termination fees paid of $1,480. (d) Represents incremental share-based compensation resulting from the modification of stock options and performance-based awards in connection with the termination of employees under our system optimization initiative. |
Net Income Per Share (Tables)
Net Income Per Share (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted | The calculation of basic and diluted net income per share was as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Net income $ 204,440 $ 177,370 $ 200,392 Common stock: Weighted average basic shares outstanding 209,486 213,766 221,375 Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted shares 2,048 2,073 3,030 Weighted average diluted shares outstanding 211,534 215,839 224,405 Net income per share: Basic $ .98 $ .83 $ .91 Diluted $ .97 $ .82 $ .89 |
Cash and Receivables (Tables)
Cash and Receivables (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Cash and Receivables [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents | Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Cash and cash equivalents Cash $ 150,136 $ 185,207 Cash equivalents 365,901 560,682 516,037 745,889 Restricted cash Accounts held by trustee for the securitized financing facility 35,483 34,850 Other 365 353 35,848 35,203 Advertising Funds (a) 36,931 50,709 72,779 85,912 Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 588,816 $ 831,801 _______________ (a) Included in “Advertising funds restricted assets.” |
Schedule of Accounts and Notes Receivable | Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Gross Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Net Gross Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Net Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net Current Accounts receivable (a) $ 106,335 $ (1,538) $ 104,797 $ 100,270 $ (1,707) $ 98,563 Notes receivable from franchisees (b) (c) 18,035 (1,149) 16,886 22,503 (4,640) 17,863 $ 124,370 $ (2,687) $ 121,683 $ 122,773 $ (6,347) $ 116,426 Non-current (d) Notes receivable from franchisees (c) $ — $ — $ — $ 3,888 $ — $ 3,888 _______________ (a) Includes income tax refund receivables of $5,284 and $3,236 as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively. Additionally, includes receivables of $17,460 as of December 31, 2023 related to expected contributions from applicable insurance for legal settlements. See Note 11 for further information on our legal reserves. (b) Includes the current portion of sales-type and direct financing lease receivables of $10,779 and $8,263 as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively. See Note 19 for further information. Includes a note receivable from a franchisee in Indonesia of $394 and $1,153 as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively. (c) Includes notes receivable related to the Brazil JV, of which $6,837 and $13,087 are included in current notes receivable as of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, respectively, and $3,888 is included in non-current notes receivable as of January 1, 2023. As of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, the Company had reserves of $1,149 and $4,640, respectively, on the loans outstanding related to the Brazil JV. See Note 8 for further information. (d) Included in “Other assets.” |
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts | The following is a rollforward of the allowance for doubtful accounts: Accounts Receivable Notes Receivable Total 2023 Balance at January 1, 2023 $ 1,707 $ 4,640 $ 6,347 Provision for doubtful accounts 534 (414) 120 Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries (703) (3,077) (3,780) Balance at December 31, 2023 $ 1,538 $ 1,149 $ 2,687 2022 Balance at January 2, 2022 $ 3,229 $ 5,290 $ 8,519 Provision for doubtful accounts (565) (350) (915) Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries (957) (300) (1,257) Balance at January 1, 2023 $ 1,707 $ 4,640 $ 6,347 2021 Balance at January 3, 2021 $ 3,739 $ 5,625 $ 9,364 Provision for doubtful accounts (148) (335) (483) Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries (362) — (362) Balance at January 2, 2022 $ 3,229 $ 5,290 $ 8,519 |
Investments (Tables)
Investments (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments and Other Investments in Equity Securities | The following is a summary of the carrying value of our investments: Year End December 31, January 1, Equity method investments $ 32,727 $ 33,921 Other investments in equity securities 1,718 12,107 $ 34,445 $ 46,028 |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments | Presented below is activity related to our investment in TimWen included in our consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of operations as of and for the years ended December 31, 2023, January 1, 2023 and January 2, 2022. Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Balance at beginning of period $ 33,921 $ 39,870 $ 44,574 Equity in earnings for the period 13,493 12,267 14,329 Amortization of purchase price adjustments (a) (2,674) (2,845) (3,126) 10,819 9,422 11,203 Distributions received (12,901) (12,612) (16,337) Foreign currency translation adjustment included in “Other comprehensive income (loss)” and other 888 (2,759) 430 Balance at end of period $ 32,727 $ 33,921 $ 39,870 _______________ (a) Purchase price adjustments that impacted the carrying value of the Company’s investment in TimWen are being amortized over the average original aggregate life of 21 years. |
Properties (Tables)
Properties (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] | |
Properties | Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Land $ 373,634 $ 371,347 Buildings and improvements 519,244 510,685 Leasehold improvements 432,051 422,330 Office, restaurant and transportation equipment 344,623 314,223 1,669,552 1,618,585 Accumulated depreciation and amortization (778,472) (722,807) $ 891,080 $ 895,778 |
Goodwill And Other Intangible_2
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Goodwill | Goodwill activity for 2023 and 2022 was as follows: Wendy’s U.S. Wendy’s Global Real Estate & Development Total Balance at January 2, 2022: Goodwill, gross $ 620,863 $ 41,264 $ 122,548 $ 784,675 Accumulated impairment losses (a) — (9,397) — (9,397) Goodwill, net 620,863 31,867 122,548 775,278 Changes in goodwill: Restaurant acquisitions (b) (260) — — (260) Restaurant dispositions — — — — Currency translation adjustment and other — (1,930) — (1,930) Balance at January 1, 2023: Goodwill, gross 620,603 39,334 122,548 782,485 Accumulated impairment losses (a) — (9,397) — (9,397) Goodwill, net 620,603 29,937 122,548 773,088 Changes in goodwill: Restaurant acquisitions — — — — Restaurant dispositions — — — — Currency translation adjustment and other — 639 — 639 Balance at December 31, 2023: Goodwill, gross 620,603 39,973 122,548 783,124 Accumulated impairment losses (a) — (9,397) — (9,397) Goodwill, net $ 620,603 $ 30,576 $ 122,548 $ 773,727 _______________ (a) Accumulated impairment losses resulted from the full impairment of goodwill of the Wendy’s international franchise restaurants during the fourth quarter of 2013. (b) Includes an adjustment to the fair value of net assets acquired in connection with the acquisition of franchised restaurants during 2021. See Note 3 for further information. |
Schedule Of Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets | The following is a summary of the components of other intangible assets and the related amortization expense: Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Cost Accumulated Amortization Net Cost Accumulated Amortization Net Indefinite-lived: Trademarks $ 903,000 $ — $ 903,000 $ 903,000 $ — $ 903,000 Definite-lived: Franchise agreements 348,657 (253,398) 95,259 348,293 (236,536) 111,757 Favorable leases 152,558 (75,502) 77,056 154,048 (67,928) 86,120 Reacquired rights under franchise agreements 90,509 (17,157) 73,352 90,509 (10,536) 79,973 Software 286,269 (215,807) 70,462 263,282 (195,332) 67,950 $ 1,780,993 $ (561,864) $ 1,219,129 $ 1,759,132 $ (510,332) $ 1,248,800 |
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense | Aggregate amortization expense: Actual for fiscal year: 2021 $ 55,236 2022 58,690 2023 59,356 Estimate for fiscal year: 2024 $ 55,722 2025 48,132 2026 42,306 2027 37,711 2028 32,687 Thereafter 99,571 $ 316,129 |
Accrued Expenses and Other Cu_2
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Accrued Liabilities [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities | Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Accrued compensation and related benefits $ 44,625 $ 39,247 Accrued taxes 28,134 30,159 Legal reserves (a) 19,699 907 Other 42,691 45,697 $ 135,149 $ 116,010 _______________ (a) The Company maintains insurance coverage to help mitigate against a variety of risks, including claims and litigation. The Company’s legal reserve may include amounts that are covered by applicable insurance, in which case any expected insurance receivables are included in “Accounts and notes receivable, net.” See Note 7 for further information. |
Long-Term Debt (Tables)
Long-Term Debt (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Debt Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Long-term debt | Long-term debt consisted of the following: Year End December 31, January 1, Class A-2 Notes: 4.236% Series 2022-1 Class A-2-I Notes, anticipated repayment date 2029 $ 98,500 $ 99,500 4.535% Series 2022-1 Class A-2-II Notes, anticipated repayment date 2032 390,134 398,000 2.370% Series 2021-1 Class A-2-I Notes, anticipated repayment date 2029 423,269 443,250 2.775% Series 2021-1 Class A-2-II Notes, anticipated repayment date 2031 633,530 640,250 3.783% Series 2019-1 Class A-2-I Notes, anticipated repayment date 2026 357,673 364,000 4.080% Series 2019-1 Class A-2-II Notes, anticipated repayment date 2029 403,123 409,500 3.884% Series 2018-1 Class A-2-II Notes, anticipated repayment date 2028 441,099 451,250 7% debentures, due in 2025 48,237 86,369 Unamortized debt issuance costs (33,501) (40,673) 2,762,064 2,851,446 Less amounts payable within one year (29,250) (29,250) Total long-term debt $ 2,732,814 $ 2,822,196 |
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt | Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, excluding the effect of purchase accounting adjustments, as of December 31, 2023 were as follows: Fiscal Year 2024 $ 29,250 2025 78,820 2026 374,923 2027 25,250 2028 442,599 Thereafter 1,846,056 $ 2,796,898 |
Pledged assets | The following is a summary of the Company’s assets pledged as collateral for certain debt: Year End December 31, Cash and cash equivalents $ 35,532 Restricted cash and other assets 35,488 Accounts and notes receivable, net 46,114 Inventories 5,760 Properties 78,932 Other intangible assets 994,350 $ 1,196,176 |
Fair Value Measurements (Tables
Fair Value Measurements (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | |
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping | The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments: Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Fair Value Financial assets Cash equivalents $ 365,901 $ 365,901 $ 560,682 $ 560,682 Level 1 Other investments in equity securities (a) 1,718 1,718 12,107 12,107 Level 2 Financial liabilities (b) Series 2022-1 Class A-2-I Notes 98,500 92,289 99,500 89,401 Level 2 Series 2022-1 Class A-2-II Notes 390,134 370,577 398,000 349,444 Level 2 Series 2021-1 Class A-2-I Notes 423,269 362,572 443,250 357,304 Level 2 Series 2021-1 Class A-2-II Notes 633,530 530,581 640,250 499,011 Level 2 Series 2019-1 Class A-2-I Notes 357,673 341,606 364,000 334,334 Level 2 Series 2019-1 Class A-2-II Notes 403,123 374,058 409,500 361,875 Level 2 Series 2018-1 Class A-2-II Notes 441,099 412,754 451,250 405,809 Level 2 7% debentures, due in 2025 48,237 49,431 86,369 92,367 Level 2 _______________ (a) The fair value of our other investments in equity securities is based on our review of information provided by the investment manager, which is based on observable price changes in orderly transactions for a similar investment of the same issuer. (b) The fair values were based on quoted market prices in markets that are not considered active markets. |
Fair value of assets and liabilities (other than cash and cash equivalents) measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis | Fair Value Measurements 2023 Total Losses December 31, Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Held and used $ 1,212 $ — $ — $ 1,212 $ 1,316 Held for sale 1,044 — — 1,044 85 Total $ 2,256 $ — $ — $ 2,256 $ 1,401 Fair Value Measurements 2022 Total Losses January 1, Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Held and used $ 4,590 $ — $ — $ 4,590 $ 5,727 Held for sale 1,314 — — 1,314 693 Total $ 5,904 $ — $ — $ 5,904 $ 6,420 |
Income Taxes (Tables)
Income Taxes (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign | Income before income taxes is set forth below: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Domestic $ 264,423 $ 231,862 $ 228,756 Foreign (a) 14,995 11,643 11,822 $ 279,418 $ 243,505 $ 240,578 _______________ (a) Excludes foreign income of domestic subsidiaries. |
Schedule of Components of Income Tax (Expense) Benefit | The (provision for) benefit from income taxes is set forth below: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Current: U.S. federal $ (50,435) $ (43,141) $ (38,416) State (13,730) (9,152) (7,039) Foreign (11,620) (9,537) (8,512) Current tax provision (75,785) (61,830) (53,967) Deferred: U.S. federal 2,163 (3,868) (52) State 564 (2,629) 15,993 Foreign (1,920) 2,192 (2,160) Deferred tax benefit (provision) 807 (4,305) 13,781 Income tax provision $ (74,978) $ (66,135) $ (40,186) |
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities | Deferred tax assets (liabilities) are set forth below: Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Deferred tax assets: Operating and finance lease liabilities $ 339,655 $ 355,653 Net operating loss and credit carryforwards 58,170 58,030 Deferred revenue 23,848 23,617 Unfavorable leases 17,104 19,085 Accrued compensation and related benefits 15,786 14,577 Accrued expenses and reserves 6,802 7,012 Other 11,243 8,275 Valuation allowances (39,346) (35,680) Total deferred tax assets 433,262 450,569 Deferred tax liabilities: Operating and finance lease assets (310,011) (326,646) Intangible assets (290,782) (285,688) Fixed assets (62,673) (66,830) Other (40,149) (41,826) Total deferred tax liabilities (703,615) (720,990) $ (270,353) $ (270,421) |
Summary of Net Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards | The amounts and expiration dates of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards are as follows: Amount Expiration Tax credit carryforwards: U.S. federal foreign tax credits $ 17,111 2027-2033 Foreign tax credits of non-U.S. subsidiaries 3,973 Indefinite Total $ 21,084 Net operating loss carryforwards (pre-tax): State and local net operating loss carryforwards $ 744,363 2024-2035 State and local net operating loss carryforwards 219,652 Indefinite Foreign net operating loss carryforwards 11,609 Indefinite Total $ 975,624 |
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation | The reconciliation of income tax computed at the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21% to reported income tax is set forth below: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Income tax provision at the U.S. federal statutory rate $ (58,678) $ (51,136) $ (50,521) State income tax provision, net of U.S. federal income tax effect (11,400) (11,616) (6,256) Prior years’ tax matters (2,250) 2,290 1,820 Excess federal tax benefits from share-based compensation 845 402 7,160 Foreign and U.S. tax effects of foreign operations 1,799 (3,744) (5) Valuation allowances (a) (3,533) 2,127 11,807 Non-deductible goodwill (b) — — (947) Tax credits 1,050 1,385 1,028 Non-deductible executive compensation (2,863) (3,154) (3,810) Unrepatriated earnings (387) (294) (282) Non-deductible expenses and other 439 (2,395) (180) $ (74,978) $ (66,135) $ (40,186) _______________ (a) 2021 primarily relates to a $12,606 benefit resulting from a change in state tax law. (b) Related to the sale of the New York Company-operated restaurants (including Manhattan). See Note 4 for further information. |
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward | As of December 31, 2023, the Company had unrecognized tax benefits of $16,719, which, if resolved favorably, would reduce income tax expense by $13,208. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Beginning balance $ 17,404 $ 18,849 $ 20,973 Additions: Tax positions of current year 836 178 157 Reductions: Tax positions of prior years (690) (662) (2,015) Settlements (249) (8) (46) Lapse of statute of limitations (582) (953) (220) Ending balance $ 16,719 $ 17,404 $ 18,849 |
Stockholders' Equity (Tables)
Stockholders' Equity (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Treasury Stock | There were 470,424 shares of common stock issued at the beginning and end of 2023, 2022 and 2021. Treasury stock activity for 2023, 2022 and 2021 was as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Number of shares at beginning of year 257,323 254,575 246,156 Repurchases of common stock 9,107 3,474 11,487 Common shares issued: Stock options, net (989) (353) (2,657) Restricted stock, net (322) (264) (337) Director fees (22) (22) (17) Other (70) (87) (57) Number of shares at end of year 265,027 257,323 254,575 |
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | The following table provides a rollforward of accumulated other comprehensive loss, which is entirely comprised of foreign currency translation: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Balance at beginning of period $ (64,176) $ (48,200) $ (49,641) Foreign currency translation 5,801 (15,976) 1,441 Balance at end of period $ (58,375) $ (64,176) $ (48,200) |
Share-Based Compensation (Table
Share-Based Compensation (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity | The following table summarizes stock option activity during 2023: Number of Options Weighted Weighted Aggregate Outstanding at January 1, 2023 10,890 $ 19.00 Granted 1,089 21.53 Exercised (1,104) 15.27 Forfeited and/or expired (385) 22.01 Outstanding at December 31, 2023 10,490 $ 19.55 5.78 $ 14,801 Vested or expected to vest at December 31, 2023 10,414 $ 19.53 5.76 $ 14,801 Exercisable at December 31, 2023 8,153 $ 18.89 4.89 $ 14,801 |
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions | The weighted average grant date fair value of stock options was determined using the following assumptions: 2023 2022 2021 Risk-free interest rate 4.31 % 3.00 % 0.70 % Expected option life in years 5.01 4.75 4.50 Expected volatility 36.79 % 37.82 % 38.00 % Expected dividend yield 4.64 % 2.34 % 2.03 % |
Schedule of Non-vested Restricted Stock Units Activity | The following table summarizes activity of Restricted Shares during 2023: Number of Restricted Shares Weighted Non-vested at January 1, 2023 1,186 $ 20.03 Granted 652 21.70 Vested (370) 20.93 Forfeited (96) 22.11 Non-vested at December 31, 2023 1,372 $ 20.42 |
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Performance Share Awards, Valuation Assumptions | The input variables are noted in the table below: 2023 2022 2021 Risk-free interest rate 4.31 % 1.71 % 0.20 % Expected life in years 3.00 3.00 3.00 Expected volatility 34.95 % 52.33 % 49.47 % Expected dividend yield (a) 0.00 % 0.00 % 0.00 % _______________ (a) The Monte Carlo method assumes a reinvestment of dividends. |
Schedule of Non-vested Performance-based Units Activity | The following table summarizes activity of performance shares at Target during 2023: Performance Condition Awards Market Condition Awards Shares Weighted Shares Weighted Non-vested at January 1, 2023 584 $ 21.67 462 $ 27.38 Granted 191 22.89 159 27.46 Dividend equivalent units issued (a) 28 — 23 — Vested (96) 23.37 (97) 30.31 Forfeited (99) 22.44 (53) 28.47 Non-vested at December 31, 2023 608 $ 21.66 494 $ 26.68 _______________ (a) Dividend equivalent units are issued in lieu of cash dividends for non-vested performance shares. There is no weighted average fair value associated with dividend equivalent units. |
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs | Total share-based compensation and the related income tax benefit recognized in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations were as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Stock options $ 7,687 $ 9,072 $ 9,256 Restricted shares 9,503 7,106 6,677 Performance shares: Performance condition awards 2,524 4,431 2,861 Market condition awards 4,033 3,929 3,225 Share-based compensation 23,747 24,538 22,019 Less: Income tax benefit (3,207) (3,043) (2,790) Share-based compensation, net of income tax benefit $ 20,540 $ 21,495 $ 19,229 |
Impairment of Long-Lived Asse_2
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Asset Impairment Charges [Abstract] | |
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets | The following is a summary of impairment losses recorded, which represent the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the affected assets and are included in “Impairment of long-lived assets:” Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Company-operated restaurants $ 1,316 $ 5,485 $ 1,862 Restaurants leased or subleased to franchisees — 242 189 Surplus properties 85 693 200 $ 1,401 $ 6,420 $ 2,251 |
Leases (Tables)
Leases (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Leases [Abstract] | |
Lease, Cost | The components of lease cost for 2023, 2022 and 2021 are as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Finance lease cost: Amortization of finance lease assets $ 16,061 $ 15,440 $ 13,992 Interest on finance lease liabilities 42,624 42,918 41,419 58,685 58,358 55,411 Operating lease cost 85,138 86,050 89,283 Variable lease cost (a) 66,859 64,473 63,853 Short-term lease cost 5,864 5,439 5,102 Total operating lease cost (b) 157,861 155,962 158,238 Total lease cost $ 216,546 $ 214,320 $ 213,649 _______________ (a) Includes expenses for executory costs of $39,456, $38,749, and $39,646 for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, for which the Company is reimbursed by sublessees. (b) Includes $125,180, $123,924 and $132,158 for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, recorded to “Franchise rental expense” for leased properties that are subsequently leased to franchisees. Also includes $30,538, $29,648 and $23,558 for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, recorded to “Cost of sales” for leases for Company-operated restaurants. |
Schedule of Supplemental Cash Flow and Non-cash Information Related to Leases | The following table includes supplemental cash flow and non-cash information related to leases: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: Operating cash flows from finance leases $ 42,624 $ 42,979 $ 42,277 Operating cash flows from operating leases 86,972 88,372 91,930 Financing cash flows from finance leases 21,588 17,312 13,640 Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations: Finance lease liabilities 20,243 34,478 82,032 Operating lease liabilities 12,659 24,742 58,770 |
Schedule of Supplemental Information Related to Leases | The following table includes supplemental information related to leases: Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, Weighted-average remaining lease term (years): Finance leases 14.3 15.1 Operating leases 12.6 13.7 Weighted average discount rate: Finance leases 8.52 % 8.66 % Operating leases 4.93 % 4.90 % Supplemental balance sheet information: Finance lease assets, gross $ 318,951 $ 310,686 Accumulated amortization (90,015) (76,116) Finance lease assets 228,936 234,570 Operating lease assets 705,615 754,498 |
Finance Lease, Liability, Maturity | The following table illustrates the Company’s future minimum rental payments for non-cancelable leases as of December 31, 2023: Finance Operating Fiscal Year Company-Operated Franchise Company-Operated Franchise 2024 $ 6,904 $ 55,492 $ 22,052 $ 64,636 2025 7,104 56,121 22,048 64,432 2026 7,249 57,817 22,500 63,967 2027 7,293 58,702 22,439 63,678 2028 7,350 59,919 22,223 63,869 Thereafter 78,045 563,716 169,965 469,484 Total minimum payments $ 113,945 $ 851,767 $ 281,227 $ 790,066 Less interest (36,660) (340,035) (71,529) (211,071) Present value of minimum lease payments (a) (b) $ 77,285 $ 511,732 $ 209,698 $ 578,995 _______________ (a) The present value of minimum finance lease payments of $20,250 and $568,767 are included in “Current portion of finance lease liabilities” and “Long-term finance lease liabilities,” respectively. (b) The present value of minimum operating lease payments of $49,353 and $739,340 are included in “Current portion of operating lease liabilities” and “Long-term operating lease liabilities,” respectively. |
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity | The following table illustrates the Company’s future minimum rental payments for non-cancelable leases as of December 31, 2023: Finance Operating Fiscal Year Company-Operated Franchise Company-Operated Franchise 2024 $ 6,904 $ 55,492 $ 22,052 $ 64,636 2025 7,104 56,121 22,048 64,432 2026 7,249 57,817 22,500 63,967 2027 7,293 58,702 22,439 63,678 2028 7,350 59,919 22,223 63,869 Thereafter 78,045 563,716 169,965 469,484 Total minimum payments $ 113,945 $ 851,767 $ 281,227 $ 790,066 Less interest (36,660) (340,035) (71,529) (211,071) Present value of minimum lease payments (a) (b) $ 77,285 $ 511,732 $ 209,698 $ 578,995 _______________ (a) The present value of minimum finance lease payments of $20,250 and $568,767 are included in “Current portion of finance lease liabilities” and “Long-term finance lease liabilities,” respectively. (b) The present value of minimum operating lease payments of $49,353 and $739,340 are included in “Current portion of operating lease liabilities” and “Long-term operating lease liabilities,” respectively. |
Lease, Income | The components of lease income for 2023, 2022 and 2021 are as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Sales-type and direct-financing leases: Selling profit $ 2,466 $ 2,981 $ 4,244 Interest income (a) 31,412 31,298 30,648 Operating lease income 163,927 170,633 173,442 Variable lease income 66,241 63,832 63,213 Franchise rental income (b) $ 230,168 $ 234,465 $ 236,655 _______________ (a) Included in “Interest expense, net.” (b) Includes sublease income of $170,112, $175,053 and $174,327 recognized during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Sublease income includes lessees’ variable payments to the Company for executory costs of $39,350, $38,733 and $39,650 for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. |
Sales-type and Direct Financing Leases, Lease Receivable, Maturity | The following table illustrates the Company’s future minimum rental receipts for non-cancelable leases and subleases as of December 31, 2023: Sales-Type and Operating Fiscal Year Subleases Owned Properties Subleases Owned Properties 2024 $ 38,890 $ 2,087 $ 106,470 $ 54,946 2025 37,826 2,194 106,616 55,549 2026 39,136 2,364 106,840 57,308 2027 39,719 2,244 107,263 56,954 2028 40,684 1,999 107,652 56,741 Thereafter 399,480 25,730 783,633 542,967 Total future minimum receipts 595,735 36,618 $ 1,318,474 $ 824,465 Unearned interest income (288,461) (19,449) Net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases (a) $ 307,274 $ 17,169 _______________ (a) The present value of minimum sales-type and direct financing rental receipts of $10,779 and $313,664 are included in “Accounts and notes receivable, net” and “Net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases,” respectively. The present value of minimum sales-type and direct financing rental receipts includes a net investment in unguaranteed residual assets of $590. |
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Maturity | The following table illustrates the Company’s future minimum rental receipts for non-cancelable leases and subleases as of December 31, 2023: Sales-Type and Operating Fiscal Year Subleases Owned Properties Subleases Owned Properties 2024 $ 38,890 $ 2,087 $ 106,470 $ 54,946 2025 37,826 2,194 106,616 55,549 2026 39,136 2,364 106,840 57,308 2027 39,719 2,244 107,263 56,954 2028 40,684 1,999 107,652 56,741 Thereafter 399,480 25,730 783,633 542,967 Total future minimum receipts 595,735 36,618 $ 1,318,474 $ 824,465 Unearned interest income (288,461) (19,449) Net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases (a) $ 307,274 $ 17,169 _______________ (a) The present value of minimum sales-type and direct financing rental receipts of $10,779 and $313,664 are included in “Accounts and notes receivable, net” and “Net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases,” respectively. The present value of minimum sales-type and direct financing rental receipts includes a net investment in unguaranteed residual assets of $590. |
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Lessor Asset under Operating Lease | Properties owned by the Company and leased to franchisees and other third parties under operating leases include: Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Land $ 260,125 $ 260,650 Buildings and improvements 296,242 291,659 Restaurant equipment 1,701 1,701 558,068 554,010 Accumulated depreciation and amortization (198,429) (187,269) $ 359,639 $ 366,741 |
Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_2
Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] | |
Supplemental Cash Flow Information | The following table includes supplemental cash flow information for 2023, 2022 and 2021: Year Ended December 31, January 1, January 2, Long-term debt-related activities, net: (Gain) loss on early extinguishment of debt $ (2,283) $ — $ 17,917 Accretion of long-term debt 755 1,194 1,177 Amortization of deferred financing costs 6,848 6,568 5,664 $ 5,320 $ 7,762 $ 24,758 Cash paid for: Interest $ 146,878 $ 144,418 $ 133,284 Income taxes, net of refunds 75,190 47,769 54,779 Non-cash investing and financing activities: Capital expenditures included in accounts payable $ 9,088 $ 14,468 $ 6,158 Finance leases 20,243 34,478 82,032 The following table includes a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash for 2023, 2022 and 2021: December 31, January 1, January 2, Cash and cash equivalents $ 516,037 $ 745,889 $ 249,438 Restricted cash 35,848 35,203 27,535 Restricted cash, included in Advertising funds restricted assets 36,931 50,709 89,993 Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 588,816 $ 831,801 $ 366,966 |
Transactions with Related Par_2
Transactions with Related Parties (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Related Party Transactions [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Related Party Transactions by Related Party | The following is a summary of transactions between the Company and its related parties: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Transactions with QSCC: Wendy’s Co-op (a) $ 363 $ 427 $ 279 Rental receipts (b) 231 198 217 TimWen lease and management fee payments, net (c) $ 20,653 $ 19,694 $ 18,687 Transactions with Yellow Cab (d) $ 14,757 $ 13,404 $ 9,869 Transactions with AMC (e) $ 2,366 $ — $ — _______________ Transactions with QSCC (a) Wendy’s has a purchasing co-op relationship structure (the “Wendy’s Co-op”) with its franchisees that establishes Quality Supply Chain Co-op, Inc. (“QSCC”). QSCC manages, for the Wendy’s system in the U.S. and Canada, contracts for the purchase and distribution of food, proprietary paper, operating supplies and equipment under national agreements with pricing based upon total system volume. QSCC’s supply chain management facilitates continuity of supply and provides consolidated purchasing efficiencies while monitoring and seeking to minimize possible obsolete inventory throughout the Wendy’s supply chain in the U.S. and Canada. Wendy’s and its franchisees pay sourcing fees to third-party vendors on certain products sourced by QSCC. Such sourcing fees are remitted by these vendors to QSCC and are the primary means of funding QSCC’s operations. Should QSCC’s sourcing fees exceed its expected needs, QSCC’s board of directors may return some or all of the excess to its members in the form of a patronage dividend. Wendy’s recorded its share of patronage dividends of $363, $427 and $279 in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which are included as a reduction of “Cost of sales.” (b) Pursuant to a lease agreement, Wendy’s leased 14,493 square feet of office space to QSCC for an annual base rent of $217. The lease was amended in June 2021 to increase both the leased square footage to 18,774 and the annual base rent to $250 beginning in 2023, subject to annual increases, and to extend the lease term through January 31, 2027. The Company received lease payments from QSCC of $231, $198 and $217 during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which has been recorded to “Franchise rental income.” TimWen Lease and Management Fee Payments (c) A wholly-owned subsidiary of Wendy’s leases restaurant facilities from TimWen, which are then subleased to franchisees for the operation of Wendy’s/Tim Hortons combo units in Canada. Wendy’s paid TimWen $20,894, $19,927 and $18,906 under these lease agreements during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which has been recorded to “Franchise rental expense.” In addition, TimWen paid Wendy’s a management fee under the TimWen joint venture agreement of $241, $233 and $219 during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which has been included as a reduction to “General and administrative.” Transactions with Yellow Cab (d) Certain family members and affiliates of Mr. Nelson Peltz, our Chairman, and Mr. Peter May, our Senior Vice Chairman, as well as Mr. Matthew Peltz, our Vice Chairman, hold indirect, minority ownership interests in Yellow Cab Holdings, LLC (“Yellow Cab”) and operating companies managed by Yellow Cab, a Wendy’s franchisee, that as of December 31, 2023 owned and operated 83 Wendy’s restaurants (including 54 restaurants acquired from NPC during the first quarter of 2021). During 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized $14,757, $13,404 and $9,869, respectively, in royalty, advertising fund, lease and other income from Yellow Cab and related entities. As of December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023, $1,153 and $1,125, respectively, was due from Yellow Cab for such income, which is included in “Accounts and notes receivable, net” and “Advertising funds restricted assets.” Transactions with AMC (e) In February 2023, Ms. Kristin Dolan, a director of the Company, was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of AMC Networks Inc. (“AMC”). During 2023, the Company purchased approximately $2,366 of advertising time from a subsidiary of AMC. The Company’s advertising spend with AMC was made in the ordinary course of business and approved on an arm’s-length basis, consistent with the Company’s comparable advertising decisions. As of December 31, 2023, approximately $584 was due to AMC for advertising time, which is included in “Advertising funds restricted liabilities.” |
Advertising Costs and Funds (Ta
Advertising Costs and Funds (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Restricted Assets and Liabilities | |
Restricted Assets and Liabilities | |
Schedule of Restricted Assets and Liabilities | Restricted assets and liabilities of the Advertising Funds at December 31, 2023 and January 1, 2023 are as follows: Year End December 31, 2023 January 1, 2023 Cash and cash equivalents $ 36,931 $ 50,709 Accounts receivable, net 76,838 70,422 Other assets 3,986 5,542 Advertising funds restricted assets $ 117,755 $ 126,673 Accounts payable $ 101,796 $ 115,339 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 18,762 16,968 Advertising funds restricted liabilities $ 120,558 $ 132,307 |
Geographic Information (Tables)
Geographic Information (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Segments, Geographical Areas [Abstract] | |
Geographic Information | The table below presents revenues and properties information by geographic area: U.S. International Total 2023 Revenues $ 2,007,727 $ 173,851 $ 2,181,578 Properties 830,492 60,588 891,080 2022 Revenues $ 1,946,005 $ 149,500 $ 2,095,505 Properties 841,143 54,635 895,778 2021 Revenues $ 1,771,997 $ 125,001 $ 1,896,998 Properties 856,841 50,026 906,867 |
Segment Information (Tables)
Segment Information (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Segment Reporting [Abstract] | |
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated | Revenues by segment are as follows: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Wendy’s U.S. $ 1,815,845 $ 1,750,242 $ 1,567,496 Wendy’s International 130,548 106,705 86,369 Global Real Estate & Development 235,185 238,558 243,133 Total revenues $ 2,181,578 $ 2,095,505 $ 1,896,998 |
Reconciliation of Profit from Segments to Consolidated | The following table reconciles profit by segment to the Company’s consolidated income before income taxes: Year Ended 2023 2022 2021 Wendy’s U.S. (a) $ 528,352 $ 480,498 $ 450,117 Wendy’s International (b) 35,704 30,432 27,386 Global Real Estate & Development 103,484 108,700 106,113 Total segment profit 667,540 619,630 583,616 Unallocated franchise support and other costs (831) (742) (753) Advertising funds surplus (deficit) 4,344 (8,325) 2,770 Unallocated general and administrative (c) (132,344) (130,103) (116,273) Depreciation and amortization (exclusive of amortization of cloud computing arrangements shown separately below) (135,789) (133,414) (125,540) Amortization of cloud computing arrangements (12,778) (2,394) — System optimization gains, net 880 6,779 33,545 Reorganization and realignment costs (9,200) (698) (8,548) Impairment of long-lived assets (1,401) (6,420) (2,251) Unallocated other operating income, net 1,563 9,001 394 Interest expense, net (124,061) (122,319) (109,185) Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt 2,283 — (17,917) Investment (loss) income, net (10,358) 2,107 39 Other income, net 29,570 10,403 681 Income before income taxes $ 279,418 $ 243,505 $ 240,578 _______________ (a) Wendy’s U.S. includes advertising funds expense of $11,000 and $25,000 for 2022 and 2021, respectively, related to the Company funding of incremental advertising. (b) Wendy’s International includes advertising fund expense of $2,401 and $4,116 for 2023 and 2022, respectively, related to the Company’s funding of incremental advertising. In addition, Wendy’s International includes other international-related advertising deficit of $950 and $1,099 for 2023 and 2022, respectively. (c) Includes corporate overhead costs, such as employee compensation and related benefits. |
Summary of Significant Accoun_3
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Corporate Structure (Details) | Dec. 31, 2023 number_of_restaurants countries |
Franchisor Disclosure | |
Number of Restaurants | 7,240 |
Entity Operated Units | |
Franchisor Disclosure | |
Number of Restaurants | 415 |
Franchised Units | |
Franchisor Disclosure | |
Number of Restaurants | 6,825 |
International | |
Franchisor Disclosure | |
Number of Countries Entity Operates | countries | 32 |
Summary of Significant Accoun_4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Cash Equivalents (Details) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) |
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |
Cash Equivalents, Insurance from Securities Investor Protection Corporation, Maximum per Account | $ 500 |
Summary of Significant Accoun_5
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Properties and Depreciation and Amortization (Details) | Dec. 31, 2023 |
Office and restaurant equipment | Minimum | |
Properties | |
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 3 years |
Office and restaurant equipment | Maximum | |
Properties | |
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 20 years |
Transportation equipment | Minimum | |
Properties | |
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 3 years |
Transportation equipment | Maximum | |
Properties | |
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 15 years |
Buildings and improvements | Minimum | |
Properties | |
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 7 years |
Buildings and improvements | Maximum | |
Properties | |
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 30 years |
Summary of Significant Accoun_6
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Other Intangible Assets and Deferred Financing Costs (Details) | Dec. 31, 2023 |
Computer software | Minimum | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 1 year |
Computer software | Maximum | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 5 years |
Reacquired rights under franchise agreements | Minimum | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 2 years |
Reacquired rights under franchise agreements | Maximum | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 20 years |
Franchise agreements | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life | 20 years |
Summary of Significant Accoun_7
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Investments (Details) | Dec. 31, 2023 |
TimWen | |
Schedule of Investments | |
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage | 50% |
Brazil JV | |
Schedule of Investments | |
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage | 20% |
Summary of Significant Accoun_8
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Self-insurance (Details) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) |
Insurance Claims | |
Loss Contingencies | |
Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss per Occurrence, Maximum | $ 500 |
Summary of Significant Accoun_9
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Leases (Details) | Dec. 31, 2023 |
Minimum | |
Operating Leased Assets | |
Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract | 15 years |
Maximum | |
Operating Leased Assets | |
Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract | 20 years |
Summary of Significant Accou_10
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Concentration of Risk (Details) | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 distributors customers number_of_restaurants states countries | Jan. 01, 2023 customers | Jan. 02, 2022 customers | |
Concentration Risk | |||
Number of Customers Accounting for More Than 10% of Revenues | customers | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Number of Restaurants | 7,240 | ||
U.S. | |||
Concentration Risk | |||
Number of Main In-line Distributors | distributors | 1 | ||
Number of Additional In-line Distributors | distributors | 4 | ||
Number of States Where Restaurants are Located | states | 50 | ||
International | |||
Concentration Risk | |||
Number of Countries Entity Operates (Including Canada) | countries | 32 | ||
Entity Operated Units | |||
Concentration Risk | |||
Number of Restaurants | 415 | ||
Entity Operated Units | Canada | |||
Concentration Risk | |||
Number of Restaurants | 0 | ||
U.S Main In-Line Distributor Risk | U.S. | Restaurants in U.S. System | |||
Concentration Risk | |||
Concentration Risk, Percentage | 67% | ||
U.S. Additional In-Line Distributor Risk | U.S. | Restaurants in U.S. System | |||
Concentration Risk | |||
Concentration Risk, Percentage | 32% | ||
Geographic Concentration Risk, Canada | Canada | Franchised Units | |||
Concentration Risk | |||
Concentration Risk, Percentage | 10% |
Disaggregation of Revenue (Deta
Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Franchise agreement term | 20 years | ||
Franchise agreement renewal term | 10 years | ||
Franchise agreement extension term | 25 years | ||
Franchise agreement renewal term extension | 20 years | ||
Total revenues | $ 2,181,578 | $ 2,095,505 | $ 1,896,998 |
Minimum | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Lessor, Operating Lease, Term of Contract | 15 years | ||
Maximum | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Lessor, Operating Lease, Term of Contract | 20 years | ||
Sales at Company-operated restaurants | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | $ 930,083 | 896,585 | 734,074 |
Franchise royalty revenue | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 512,159 | 485,488 | 460,709 |
Franchise fees | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 80,172 | 72,747 | 76,039 |
Franchise Rental Income | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 230,168 | 234,465 | 236,655 |
Advertising funds revenue | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 428,996 | 406,220 | 389,521 |
Wendy's U.S. | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Total revenues | 1,815,845 | 1,750,242 | 1,567,496 |
Wendy's U.S. | Sales at Company-operated restaurants | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 905,700 | 882,684 | 730,415 |
Wendy's U.S. | Franchise royalty revenue | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 444,653 | 423,955 | 407,317 |
Wendy's U.S. | Franchise fees | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 68,749 | 63,112 | 64,170 |
Wendy's U.S. | Franchise Rental Income | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Wendy's U.S. | Advertising funds revenue | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 396,743 | 380,491 | 365,594 |
Wendy's International | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Total revenues | 130,548 | 106,705 | 86,369 |
Wendy's International | Sales at Company-operated restaurants | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 24,383 | 13,901 | 3,659 |
Wendy's International | Franchise royalty revenue | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 67,506 | 61,533 | 53,392 |
Wendy's International | Franchise fees | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 6,406 | 5,542 | 5,391 |
Wendy's International | Franchise Rental Income | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Wendy's International | Advertising funds revenue | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 32,253 | 25,729 | 23,927 |
Global Real Estate & Development | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Total revenues | 235,185 | 238,558 | 243,133 |
Global Real Estate & Development | Sales at Company-operated restaurants | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Global Real Estate & Development | Franchise royalty revenue | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Global Real Estate & Development | Franchise fees | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 5,017 | 4,093 | 6,478 |
Global Real Estate & Development | Franchise Rental Income | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | 230,168 | 234,465 | 236,655 |
Global Real Estate & Development | Advertising funds revenue | |||
Disaggregation of Revenue | |||
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 0 |
Revenue Contract Balances (Deta
Revenue Contract Balances (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Contract balances | |||
Deferred franchise fees at beginning of period | $ 99,208 | $ 97,186 | $ 97,785 |
Revenue recognized during the period | (12,242) | (11,567) | (19,838) |
New deferrals due to cash received and other | 13,839 | 13,589 | 19,239 |
Deferred franchise fees at end of period | 100,805 | 99,208 | $ 97,186 |
Deferred franchise fees, noncurrent | 90,132 | 90,231 | |
Accounts and notes receivable, net | Short-term Contract with Customer | |||
Contract balances | |||
Receivables, Net, Current | 55,293 | 54,497 | |
Advertising funds restricted assets | Short-term Contract with Customer | |||
Contract balances | |||
Receivables, Net, Current | 76,838 | 70,422 | |
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities | |||
Contract balances | |||
Deferred franchise fees, current | 10,673 | 8,977 | |
Deferred Franchise Fees | |||
Contract balances | |||
Deferred franchise fees, noncurrent | $ 90,132 | $ 90,231 |
Revenue Anticipated Future Reco
Revenue Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees (Details) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | $ 100,805 |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date: 2024-01-01 | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | $ 10,673 |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Period | 1 year |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date: 2024-12-30 | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | $ 6,483 |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Period | 1 year |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date: 2025-12-29 | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | $ 6,354 |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Period | 1 year |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date: 2027-01-04 | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | $ 6,255 |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Period | 1 year |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date: 2028-01-03 | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | $ 6,136 |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Period | 1 year |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date: 2029-01-01 | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | |
Revenue, Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Franchise Fees, Amount | $ 64,904 |
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Period | 0 years |
Acquisitions (Details)
Acquisitions (Details) $ in Thousands | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||
Apr. 04, 2021 USD ($) numberOfMarkets | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) number_of_restaurants | Jan. 01, 2023 USD ($) number_of_restaurants | Jan. 02, 2022 USD ($) number_of_restaurants | Jan. 03, 2021 USD ($) | Nov. 18, 2020 numberOfMarkets | Jul. 31, 2020 number_of_restaurants numberOfMarkets | |
Business Acquisition | |||||||
Number of Restaurants | number_of_restaurants | 7,240 | ||||||
Goodwill | $ 773,727 | $ 773,088 | $ 775,278 | ||||
Number of markets to be sold by NPC | numberOfMarkets | 8 | ||||||
NPC consortium bid: number of markets to be purchased by franchisees | numberOfMarkets | 7 | ||||||
NPC consortium bid: number of markets to be purchased by Company | numberOfMarkets | 1 | ||||||
NPC Consortium bid deposit | $ 43,240 | ||||||
NPC Consortium bid payable | $ 38,361 | ||||||
NPC asset purchase agreement: number of markets to be purchased by FRG | numberOfMarkets | 4 | ||||||
NPC asset purchase agreement: number of markets to be purchased by franchisees | numberOfMarkets | 4 | ||||||
Acquisitions | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 123,069 | ||||
Acquisitions | |||||||
Business Acquisition | |||||||
Restaurants acquired from franchisees | number_of_restaurants | 0 | 0 | 93 | ||||
Total consideration paid, net of cash received | $ 127,948 | ||||||
Properties | 21,984 | ||||||
Acquired franchise rights | 81,239 | ||||||
Total identifiable net assets | 104,506 | ||||||
Goodwill | 23,442 | ||||||
Business combination, provisional information, initial accounting incomplete, adjustment, financial assets | $ 260 | ||||||
Finance lease assets | Acquisitions | |||||||
Business Acquisition | |||||||
Lease assets | 25,547 | ||||||
Operating lease assets | Acquisitions | |||||||
Business Acquisition | |||||||
Lease assets | 44,282 | ||||||
Finance lease liabilities | Acquisitions | |||||||
Business Acquisition | |||||||
Lease liabilities | (25,059) | ||||||
Operating lease liabilities | Acquisitions | |||||||
Business Acquisition | |||||||
Lease liabilities | (43,478) | ||||||
Settlement of NPC-related deposits | |||||||
Business Acquisition | |||||||
Acquisitions | $ (4,879) | ||||||
Other liabilities | Acquisitions | |||||||
Business Acquisition | |||||||
Other | $ (9) | ||||||
Restaurants under construction | Acquisitions | |||||||
Business Acquisition | |||||||
Restaurants acquired from franchisees | number_of_restaurants | 2 | ||||||
NPC franchised restaurants | |||||||
Business Acquisition | |||||||
Number of Restaurants | number_of_restaurants | 393 |
System Optimization Gains, Ne_2
System Optimization Gains, Net Summary of Disposition Activity (Details) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | |||
Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) number_of_restaurants | Jan. 01, 2023 USD ($) number_of_restaurants | Jan. 02, 2022 USD ($) number_of_restaurants | Jan. 01, 2017 | |
System optimization gains, net | ||||
Company-operated restaurant ownership percentage | 5% | |||
Proceeds from sales of restaurants | $ 2,115 | $ 8,237 | $ 55,118 | |
Gain on sales-type leases | 2,466 | 2,981 | 4,244 | |
System optimization gains, net | $ 880 | $ 6,779 | $ 33,545 | |
Sale of franchise-operated restaurants to franchisees | ||||
System optimization gains, net | ||||
Number of restaurants sold to franchisees | number_of_restaurants | 99 | 79 | 34 | |
Sale of company-operated restaurants to franchisees | ||||
System optimization gains, net | ||||
Number of restaurants sold to franchisees | number_of_restaurants | 0 | 1 | 47 | |
Proceeds from sales of restaurants | $ 0 | $ 79 | $ 50,518 | |
Net assets sold | 0 | (141) | (16,939) | |
Goodwill related to sales of restaurants | 0 | 0 | (4,847) | |
Net unfavorable leases | 0 | (360) | (2,939) | |
Gain on sales-type leases | 0 | 0 | 7,156 | |
Other | 0 | 6 | (2,148) | |
Gain on sales of restaurants, net, before post-closing adjustments | 0 | (416) | 30,801 | |
Post-closing adjustments on sales of restaurants | 858 | 2,877 | 1,218 | |
System optimization gains, net | 858 | 2,461 | 32,019 | |
Favorable lease | 3,799 | |||
Unfavorable lease | 6,738 | |||
Deferred gain on sale of property | 3,500 | |||
Recognition of deferred gain on sale of property | 858 | 3,522 | 515 | |
Sale of other assets | ||||
System optimization gains, net | ||||
Proceeds from sales of restaurants | 2,115 | 7,780 | 4,561 | |
System optimization gains, net | $ 22 | 4,318 | 1,526 | |
Sale of manhattan company-operated restaurants to franchisees note receivable | ||||
System optimization gains, net | ||||
Proceeds from sales of restaurants | $ 378 | 39 | ||
Sale of manhattan company-operated restaurants to franchisees | ||||
System optimization gains, net | ||||
Gain on sales-type leases | 1,625 | |||
Write-off of lease assets | $ 927 |
System Optimization Gains, Ne_3
System Optimization Gains, Net Assets Held for Sale (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Other assets held for sale | ||
Long lived assets held for sale | ||
Assets held for sale | $ 2,689 | $ 1,661 |
Reorganization and Realignmen_3
Reorganization and Realignment Costs Summary (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Reorganization and realignment costs | $ 9,200 | $ 698 | $ 8,548 |
Consolidated Statements of Operations location: | Reorganization and realignment costs | ||
Organizational Redesign | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Reorganization and realignment costs | $ 9,064 | 0 | 0 |
System Optimization Initiative | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Reorganization and realignment costs | 136 | 611 | 6,852 |
Other Reorganization and Realignment Plans | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Reorganization and realignment costs | $ 0 | $ 87 | $ 1,696 |
Reorganization and Realignmen_4
Reorganization and Realignment Costs Organizational Redesign (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Reorganization and realignment costs | $ 9,200 | $ 698 | $ 8,548 |
Organizational Redesign | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 7,793 | ||
Reorganization and realignment costs | 9,064 | $ 0 | $ 0 |
Organizational Redesign | Minimum | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost | 17,000 | ||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining | 8,000 | ||
Organizational Redesign | Maximum | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost | 19,000 | ||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining | 10,000 | ||
Organizational Redesign | Severance and related employee costs | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 6,243 | ||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining | 7,000 | ||
Organizational Redesign | Recruitment and relocation costs | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 554 | ||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining | 500 | ||
Organizational Redesign | Third-party and other costs | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 996 | ||
Organizational Redesign | Share-based compensation | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 1,271 | ||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining | $ 2,000 |
Reorganization and Realignmen_5
Reorganization and Realignment Costs Organizational Redesign Accrual Rollforward (Details) - Organizational Redesign $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |
Beginning balance | $ 0 |
Charges | 7,793 |
Payments | (6,101) |
Ending balance | 1,692 |
Severance and related employee costs | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |
Beginning balance | 0 |
Charges | 6,243 |
Payments | (4,551) |
Ending balance | 1,692 |
Recruitment and relocation costs | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |
Beginning balance | 0 |
Charges | 554 |
Payments | (554) |
Ending balance | 0 |
Third-party and other costs | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |
Beginning balance | 0 |
Charges | 996 |
Payments | (996) |
Ending balance | $ 0 |
Reorganization and Realignmen_6
Reorganization and Realignment Costs System Optimization Costs (Details) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) number_of_restaurants | Jan. 01, 2023 USD ($) number_of_restaurants | Jan. 02, 2022 USD ($) number_of_restaurants | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Reorganization and realignment costs | $ 9,200 | $ 698 | $ 8,548 |
Consolidated Statements of Operations location: | Reorganization and realignment costs | ||
Acquisitions | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restaurants acquired from franchisees | number_of_restaurants | 0 | 0 | 93 |
System Optimization Initiative | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Reorganization and realignment costs | $ 136 | $ 611 | $ 6,852 |
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Benefit Remaining | 150 | ||
Restructuring reserve | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 76 | 544 | 3,996 |
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date | 50,813 | ||
Restructuring Charges, Incurred to Date | 84,207 | ||
System Optimization Initiative | Severance and related employee costs | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 0 | 4 | 661 |
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date | 18,902 | ||
System Optimization Initiative | Professional fees | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 3 | 395 | 1,570 |
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date | 24,075 | ||
System Optimization Initiative | Other | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 73 | 145 | 1,765 |
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date | 7,836 | ||
System Optimization Initiative | Other | NPC Transaction Fees | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 1,350 | ||
System Optimization Initiative | Accelerated depreciation and amortization | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date | 25,398 | ||
System Optimization Initiative | NPC lease termination costs | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 60 | 67 | 2,856 |
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date | 2,983 | ||
System Optimization Initiative | NPC lease termination costs | Write-Off of Lease Assets | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 1,376 | ||
System Optimization Initiative | NPC lease termination costs | Lease Termination Fees | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 1,480 | ||
System Optimization Initiative | Share-based compensation | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost | 0 | $ 0 | $ 0 |
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date | $ 5,013 |
Reorganization and Realignmen_7
Reorganization and Realignment Costs Other Reorganization and Realignment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Reorganization and realignment costs | $ 9,200 | $ 698 | $ 8,548 |
Other Reorganization and Realignment Plans | |||
Restructuring Cost and Reserve | |||
Reorganization and realignment costs | $ 0 | $ 87 | $ 1,696 |
Net Income Per Share (Details)
Net Income Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Earnings Per Share [Abstract] | |||
Net income | $ 204,440 | $ 177,370 | $ 200,392 |
Weighted average basic shares outstanding | 209,486 | 213,766 | 221,375 |
Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted shares | 2,048 | 2,073 | 3,030 |
Weighted average diluted shares outstanding | 211,534 | 215,839 | 224,405 |
Earnings Per Share, Basic | $ 0.98 | $ 0.83 | $ 0.91 |
Earnings Per Share, Diluted | $ 0.97 | $ 0.82 | $ 0.89 |
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount | 5,377 | 4,443 | 2,404 |
Cash and Receivables Cash and C
Cash and Receivables Cash and Cash Equivalents (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | Jan. 03, 2021 |
Cash and Cash Equivalents | ||||
Cash | $ 150,136 | $ 185,207 | ||
Cash equivalents | 365,901 | 560,682 | ||
Cash and cash equivalents | 516,037 | 745,889 | $ 249,438 | |
Restricted cash and cash equivalents, current | 35,848 | 35,203 | 27,535 | |
Total restricted cash and cash equivalents, current | 72,779 | 85,912 | ||
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | 588,816 | 831,801 | $ 366,966 | $ 418,241 |
Accounts held by trustee for the securitized financing facility | ||||
Cash and Cash Equivalents | ||||
Restricted cash and cash equivalents, current | 35,483 | 34,850 | ||
Other | ||||
Cash and Cash Equivalents | ||||
Restricted cash and cash equivalents, current | 365 | 353 | ||
Restricted Cash | ||||
Cash and Cash Equivalents | ||||
Restricted cash and cash equivalents, current | 35,848 | 35,203 | ||
Advertising funds restricted assets | ||||
Cash and Cash Equivalents | ||||
Restricted cash and cash equivalents, current | $ 36,931 | $ 50,709 |
Cash and Receivables Accounts a
Cash and Receivables Accounts and Notes Receivable (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable | ||
Accounts receivable, gross, current | $ 106,335 | $ 100,270 |
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts, current | (1,538) | (1,707) |
Accounts receivable, net, current | 104,797 | 98,563 |
Notes receivable from franchisees, gross, current | 18,035 | 22,503 |
Notes receivable from franchisees, allowance for doubtful accounts, current | (1,149) | (4,640) |
Notes receivable from franchisees, net, current | 16,886 | 17,863 |
Accounts and notes receivable, gross, current | 124,370 | 122,773 |
Accounts and notes receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts, current | (2,687) | (6,347) |
Accounts and notes receivable, net, current | 121,683 | 116,426 |
Notes receivable from franchisees, gross, noncurrent | 0 | 3,888 |
Notes receivable from franchisees, allowance for doubtful accounts, noncurrent | 0 | 0 |
Notes receivable from franchisees, net, noncurrent | 0 | 3,888 |
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net | ||
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable | ||
Income taxes receivable | 5,284 | 3,236 |
Insurance for legal settlements receivable | 17,460 | |
Sales-type and direct financing leases, lease receivable | 10,779 | 8,263 |
Indonesia franchisee | ||
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable | ||
Notes receivable from franchisees, gross, current | 394 | 1,153 |
Brazil JV | ||
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable | ||
Notes receivable from franchisees, gross, current | 6,837 | 13,087 |
Notes receivable from franchisees, allowance for doubtful accounts, current | $ (1,149) | (4,640) |
Notes receivable from franchisees, gross, noncurrent | $ 3,888 |
Cash and Receivables Allowance
Cash and Receivables Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable | |||
Balance at beginning of period; accounts receivable | $ 1,707 | $ 3,229 | $ 3,739 |
Provision for doubtful accounts; accounts receivable | 534 | (565) | (148) |
Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries; accounts receivable | (703) | (957) | (362) |
Balance at end of period; accounts receivable | 1,538 | 1,707 | 3,229 |
Balance at beginning of period; notes receivable | 4,640 | 5,290 | 5,625 |
Provision for doubtful accounts; notes receivable | (414) | (350) | (335) |
Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries; notes receivable | (3,077) | (300) | 0 |
Balance at end of period; notes receivable | 1,149 | 4,640 | 5,290 |
Balance at beginning of period; total | 6,347 | 8,519 | 9,364 |
Provision for doubtful accounts; total | 120 | (915) | (483) |
Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries; total | (3,780) | (1,257) | (362) |
Balance at end of period; total | $ 2,687 | $ 6,347 | $ 8,519 |
Investments Carrying Value of I
Investments Carrying Value of Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Schedule of Investments | ||
Equity method investments | $ 32,727 | $ 33,921 |
Other investments in equity securities | 1,718 | 12,107 |
Investments | $ 34,445 | $ 46,028 |
Investments Equity Method Inves
Investments Equity Method Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||
Jun. 28, 2015 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments | ||||
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Current | $ (1,149) | $ (4,640) | ||
TimWen | ||||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments | ||||
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage | 50% | |||
Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity | $ 14,086 | 16,423 | ||
Brazil JV | ||||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments | ||||
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage | 20% | |||
Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture | $ 1 | |||
Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture, Starbord | 2 | |||
Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture, Infinity | $ 2 | |||
Equity Method Investment, Initial Ownership Percentage | 20% | |||
Equity Method Investment Ownership Percentage, Starbord | 40% | |||
Equity Method Investment Ownership Percentage, Infinity | 40% | |||
Equity in earnings for the period | $ 0 | 0 | $ 0 | |
Financing Receivable, before Allowance for Credit Loss, Current and Noncurrent | 6,837 | $ 16,975 | ||
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Current | $ (1,149) |
Investments Investment Rollforw
Investments Investment Rollforward (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments | |||
Balance at beginning of period | $ 33,921 | ||
Distributions received | (12,901) | $ (12,612) | $ (16,337) |
Foreign currency translation adjustment included in “Other comprehensive income” and other | 5,801 | (15,976) | $ 1,441 |
Balance at end of period | $ 32,727 | $ 33,921 | |
TimWen | |||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments | |||
Equity Method Investment, Purchase Price Adjustment, Amortization Period | 21 years | 21 years | 21 years |
TimWen and Brazil JV | |||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments | |||
Balance at beginning of period | $ 33,921 | $ 39,870 | $ 44,574 |
Equity in earnings for the period | 13,493 | 12,267 | 14,329 |
Amortization of purchase price adjustments | (2,674) | (2,845) | (3,126) |
Equity in earnings for the period, net of amortization of purchase price adjustment | 10,819 | 9,422 | 11,203 |
Distributions received | (12,901) | (12,612) | (16,337) |
Foreign currency translation adjustment included in “Other comprehensive income” and other | 888 | (2,759) | 430 |
Balance at end of period | $ 32,727 | $ 33,921 | $ 39,870 |
Investments Other Investments i
Investments Other Investments in Equity Securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Payments for investments | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 10,000 |
Other investments in equity securities | |||
Payments for investments | $ 10,000 | ||
Recognized gain on investment, observable price change for a similar investment of same issuer | $ 2,107 | ||
Impairment charge recorded, difference between estimated fair value and carrying value | $ 10,389 |
Properties (Details)
Properties (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Plant, Property and Equipment | |||
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross | $ 1,669,552 | $ 1,618,585 | |
Accumulated depreciation and amortization | (778,472) | (722,807) | |
Properties | 891,080 | 895,778 | $ 906,867 |
Depreciation and amortization (exclusive of amortization of cloud computing arrangements shown separately below) | 135,789 | 133,414 | 125,540 |
Land | |||
Plant, Property and Equipment | |||
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross | 373,634 | 371,347 | |
Buildings and improvements | |||
Plant, Property and Equipment | |||
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross | 519,244 | 510,685 | |
Leasehold improvements | |||
Plant, Property and Equipment | |||
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross | 432,051 | 422,330 | |
Office, restaurant and transportation equipment | |||
Plant, Property and Equipment | |||
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross | 344,623 | 314,223 | |
Property, Plant and Equipment | |||
Plant, Property and Equipment | |||
Depreciation and amortization (exclusive of amortization of cloud computing arrangements shown separately below) | $ 70,108 | $ 69,239 | $ 68,298 |
Goodwill And Other Intangible_3
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets Schedule of Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Goodwill | |||
Goodwill, gross | $ 783,124 | $ 782,485 | $ 784,675 |
Accumulated impairment losses | (9,397) | (9,397) | (9,397) |
Goodwill, net | 773,727 | 773,088 | 775,278 |
Restaurant acquisitions | (260) | ||
Restaurant dispositions | 0 | 0 | |
Currency translation adjustment and other | 639 | (1,930) | |
Restaurant acquisitions | 0 | ||
Wendy's U.S. | |||
Goodwill | |||
Goodwill, gross | 620,603 | 620,603 | 620,863 |
Accumulated impairment losses | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Goodwill, net | 620,603 | 620,603 | 620,863 |
Restaurant acquisitions | (260) | ||
Restaurant dispositions | 0 | 0 | |
Currency translation adjustment and other | 0 | 0 | |
Restaurant acquisitions | 0 | ||
Wendy's International | |||
Goodwill | |||
Goodwill, gross | 39,973 | 39,334 | 41,264 |
Accumulated impairment losses | (9,397) | (9,397) | (9,397) |
Goodwill, net | 30,576 | 29,937 | 31,867 |
Restaurant acquisitions | 0 | ||
Restaurant dispositions | 0 | 0 | |
Currency translation adjustment and other | 639 | (1,930) | |
Restaurant acquisitions | 0 | ||
Global Real Estate & Development | |||
Goodwill | |||
Goodwill, gross | 122,548 | 122,548 | 122,548 |
Accumulated impairment losses | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Goodwill, net | 122,548 | 122,548 | $ 122,548 |
Restaurant acquisitions | 0 | ||
Restaurant dispositions | 0 | 0 | |
Currency translation adjustment and other | 0 | $ 0 | |
Restaurant acquisitions | $ 0 |
Goodwill And Other Intangible_4
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets | ||
Indefinite Lived And Finite Lived Intangible Assets, Gross | $ 1,780,993 | $ 1,759,132 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization | (561,864) | (510,332) |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net | 316,129 | |
Other intangible assets | 1,219,129 | 1,248,800 |
Trademarks | ||
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets | ||
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) | 903,000 | 903,000 |
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization | 0 | 0 |
Franchise agreements | ||
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets | ||
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross | 348,657 | 348,293 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization | (253,398) | (236,536) |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net | 95,259 | 111,757 |
Favorable leases | ||
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets | ||
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross | 152,558 | 154,048 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization | (75,502) | (67,928) |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net | 77,056 | 86,120 |
Reacquired rights under franchise agreements | ||
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets | ||
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross | 90,509 | 90,509 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization | (17,157) | (10,536) |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net | 73,352 | 79,973 |
Software | ||
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets | ||
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross | 286,269 | 263,282 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization | (215,807) | (195,332) |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net | $ 70,462 | $ 67,950 |
Goodwill And Other Intangible_5
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets Aggregate Amortization Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets | |||
Amortization of intangible assets | $ 59,356 | $ 58,690 | $ 55,236 |
Future amortization, 2024 | 55,722 | ||
Future amortization, 2025 | 48,132 | ||
Future amortization, 2026 | 42,306 | ||
Future amortization, 2027 | 37,711 | ||
Future amortization Expense, 2028 | 32,687 | ||
Future amortization, Thereafter | 99,571 | ||
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net | $ 316,129 |
Accrued Expenses and Other Cu_3
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Accrued compensation and related benefits | $ 44,625 | $ 39,247 |
Accrued taxes | 28,134 | 30,159 |
Legal reserves | 19,699 | 907 |
Other | 42,691 | 45,697 |
Accrued Liabilities, Current | $ 135,149 | $ 116,010 |
Long-Term Debt Schedule of Long
Long-Term Debt Schedule of Long Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Debt Instrument | ||
Unamortized debt issuance costs | $ (33,501) | $ (40,673) |
Total debt | 2,762,064 | 2,851,446 |
Less amounts payable within one year | (29,250) | (29,250) |
Total long-term debt | 2,732,814 | 2,822,196 |
Series 2022-1 Class A-2-I Notes | ||
Debt Instrument | ||
Senior Notes | $ 98,500 | $ 99,500 |
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 4.236% | 4.236% |
Series 2022-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||
Debt Instrument | ||
Senior Notes | $ 390,134 | $ 398,000 |
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 4.535% | 4.535% |
Series 2021-1 Class A-2-I Notes | ||
Debt Instrument | ||
Senior Notes | $ 423,269 | $ 443,250 |
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 2.37% | 2.37% |
Series 2021-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||
Debt Instrument | ||
Senior Notes | $ 633,530 | $ 640,250 |
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 2.775% | 2.775% |
Series 2019-1 Class A-2-I Notes | ||
Debt Instrument | ||
Senior Notes | $ 357,673 | $ 364,000 |
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 3.783% | 3.783% |
Series 2019-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||
Debt Instrument | ||
Senior Notes | $ 403,123 | $ 409,500 |
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 4.08% | 4.08% |
Series 2018-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||
Debt Instrument | ||
Senior Notes | $ 441,099 | $ 451,250 |
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 3.884% | 3.884% |
7% debentures | ||
Debt Instrument | ||
7% debentures | $ 48,237 | $ 86,369 |
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 7% | 7% |
Long-Term Debt Maturities of lo
Long-Term Debt Maturities of long-term debt (Details) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) |
Debt Instrument | |
2024 | $ 29,250 |
2025 | 78,820 |
2026 | 374,923 |
2027 | 25,250 |
2028 | 442,599 |
Thereafter | 1,846,056 |
Total long-term debt, gross | $ 2,796,898 |
Long-Term Debt Other Long-term
Long-Term Debt Other Long-term Debt Disclosure (Details) $ in Thousands, $ in Thousands | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||
Mar. 31, 2020 CAD ($) | Jul. 04, 2021 USD ($) | Apr. 04, 2021 CAD ($) | Jan. 03, 2021 CAD ($) | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Jan. 01, 2023 USD ($) | Jan. 02, 2022 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2023 CAD ($) | Jul. 03, 2022 USD ($) | Dec. 29, 2019 USD ($) | |
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt, net | $ 2,283 | $ 0 | $ (17,917) | |||||||
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount | 28,847 | |||||||||
Restricted cash | 35,848 | 35,203 | 27,535 | |||||||
Interest Expense | 124,061 | $ 122,319 | 109,185 | |||||||
Series 2022-1 Class A-2-I Notes | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 100,000 | |||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage | 4.70% | 4.70% | ||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 4.236% | 4.236% | 4.236% | |||||||
Series 2022-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 400,000 | |||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage | 4.70% | 4.70% | ||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 4.535% | 4.535% | 4.535% | |||||||
Series 2021-1 Class A-2-I Notes | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 450,000 | |||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage | 2.50% | 2.50% | ||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 2.37% | 2.37% | 2.37% | |||||||
Series 2021-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 650,000 | |||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage | 2.90% | 2.90% | ||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 2.775% | 2.775% | 2.775% | |||||||
Series 2019-1 Class A-2-I Notes | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 400,000 | |||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage | 4% | 4% | ||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 3.783% | 3.783% | 3.783% | |||||||
Series 2019-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 450,000 | |||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage | 4.20% | 4.20% | ||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 4.08% | 4.08% | 4.08% | |||||||
Series 2018-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 475,000 | |||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage | 4% | 4% | ||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 3.884% | 3.884% | 3.884% | |||||||
Series 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes | Line of Credit | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity | $ 300,000 | |||||||||
Line of Credit, Outstanding, Amount | $ 0 | |||||||||
Series 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes | Line of Credit | Minimum | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage | 0.40% | |||||||||
Series 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes | Line of Credit | Maximum | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage | 0.75% | |||||||||
Series 2021-1 Class A-1 Notes | Letter of Credit | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount | $ 28,627 | |||||||||
Series 2019-1 Class A-1 Notes | Line of Credit | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity | 150,000 | |||||||||
Series 2020-1 Class A-1 Notes | Line of Credit | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity | 100,000 | |||||||||
Series 2021-1 Senior Notes | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt, net | $ (17,917) | |||||||||
Specified make-whole payment | 9,632 | |||||||||
Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost | $ 8,285 | |||||||||
Debt Issuance Costs, Gross | 20,873 | |||||||||
Series 2022-1 Senior Notes | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 500,000 | |||||||||
Debt Issuance Costs, Gross | $ 10,232 | |||||||||
Class A-2 Senior Secured Notes | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount | 29,171 | |||||||||
Debt Instrument, Repurchase Amount | 24,935 | |||||||||
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt, net | 3,914 | |||||||||
7% debentures | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 100,000 | |||||||||
Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount | 40,430 | $ 10,000 | ||||||||
Debt Instrument, Repurchase Amount | 40,517 | 10,550 | ||||||||
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt, net | $ (1,631) | |||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage | 8.60% | 8.60% | ||||||||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 7% | 7% | 7% | |||||||
7% debentures | Premium | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Repurchase Amount | 500 | |||||||||
7% debentures | Transaction Fees | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument, Repurchase Amount | $ 50 | |||||||||
Restricted Cash Held for Principal Interest and Fees | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Restricted cash | $ 35,483 | $ 34,850 | ||||||||
Canadian Subsidiary | Line of Credit | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity | $ 6,000 | |||||||||
Line of Credit, Outstanding, Amount | $ 0 | |||||||||
Proceeds from Lines of Credit | $ 5,500 | |||||||||
Repayments of Lines of Credit | $ 2,500 | $ 3,000 | ||||||||
Wendy's U.S. Advertising Fund | Line of Credit | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity | 15,000 | |||||||||
Line of Credit, Outstanding, Amount | $ 0 | |||||||||
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | 2.25% | |||||||||
Corporate Debt Securities | ||||||||||
Debt Instrument | ||||||||||
Interest Expense | $ 112,659 | $ 110,751 | $ 98,356 |
Long-Term Debt Assets Pledged a
Long-Term Debt Assets Pledged as Collateral (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 |
Assets Pledged as Collateral | |||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 516,037 | $ 745,889 | $ 249,438 |
Inventories | 6,690 | 7,129 | |
Properties | 891,080 | 895,778 | $ 906,867 |
Other intangible assets | 1,219,129 | 1,248,800 | |
Total assets | 5,182,826 | $ 5,499,344 | |
Asset Pledged as Collateral | |||
Assets Pledged as Collateral | |||
Cash and cash equivalents | 35,532 | ||
Restricted cash and other assets | 35,488 | ||
Accounts and notes receivable, net | 46,114 | ||
Inventories | 5,760 | ||
Properties | 78,932 | ||
Other intangible assets | 994,350 | ||
Total assets | $ 1,196,176 |
Fair Value Measurements Financi
Fair Value Measurements Financial Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Other investments in equity securities | $ 1,718 | $ 12,107 |
Series 2022-1 Class A-2-I Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 4.236% | 4.236% |
Series 2022-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 4.535% | 4.535% |
Series 2021-1 Class A-2-I Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 2.37% | 2.37% |
Series 2021-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 2.775% | 2.775% |
Series 2019-1 Class A-2-I Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 3.783% | 3.783% |
Series 2019-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 4.08% | 4.08% |
Series 2018-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 3.884% | 3.884% |
7% debentures | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 7% | 7% |
Reported Value Measurement | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Cash equivalents | $ 365,901 | $ 560,682 |
Other investments in equity securities | 1,718 | 12,107 |
Reported Value Measurement | Series 2022-1 Class A-2-I Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 98,500 | 99,500 |
Reported Value Measurement | Series 2022-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 390,134 | 398,000 |
Reported Value Measurement | Series 2021-1 Class A-2-I Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 423,269 | 443,250 |
Reported Value Measurement | Series 2021-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 633,530 | 640,250 |
Reported Value Measurement | Series 2019-1 Class A-2-I Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 357,673 | 364,000 |
Reported Value Measurement | Series 2019-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 403,123 | 409,500 |
Reported Value Measurement | Series 2018-1 Class A-2-II Notes | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 441,099 | 451,250 |
Reported Value Measurement | 7% debentures | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 48,237 | 86,369 |
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Cash equivalents | 365,901 | 560,682 |
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Other investments in equity securities | 1,718 | 12,107 |
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Series 2022-1 Class A-2-I Notes | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 92,289 | 89,401 |
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Series 2022-1 Class A-2-II Notes | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 370,577 | 349,444 |
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Series 2021-1 Class A-2-I Notes | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 362,572 | 357,304 |
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Series 2021-1 Class A-2-II Notes | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 530,581 | 499,011 |
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Series 2019-1 Class A-2-I Notes | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 341,606 | 334,334 |
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Series 2019-1 Class A-2-II Notes | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 374,058 | 361,875 |
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Series 2018-1 Class A-2-II Notes | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | 412,754 | 405,809 |
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | 7% debentures | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | ||
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions | ||
Debt instrument | $ 49,431 | $ 92,367 |
Fair Value Measurements Non-Rec
Fair Value Measurements Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Nonrecurring Basis | |||
Held and used, Total losses | $ 1,316 | $ 5,727 | |
Held for sale, Total losses | 85 | 693 | |
Impairment of long-lived assets | 1,401 | 6,420 | $ 2,251 |
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Nonrecurring Basis | |||
Assets Held and used, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure | 1,212 | 4,590 | |
Assets Held for sale, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure | 1,044 | 1,314 | |
Total | 2,256 | 5,904 | |
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Nonrecurring Basis | |||
Assets Held and used, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure | 0 | 0 | |
Assets Held for sale, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure | 0 | 0 | |
Total | 0 | 0 | |
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Nonrecurring Basis | |||
Assets Held and used, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure | 0 | 0 | |
Assets Held for sale, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure | 0 | 0 | |
Total | 0 | 0 | |
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Nonrecurring Basis | |||
Assets Held and used, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure | 1,212 | 4,590 | |
Assets Held for sale, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure | 1,044 | 1,314 | |
Total | $ 2,256 | $ 5,904 |
Income Taxes Income from Operat
Income Taxes Income from Operations before Income Tax (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Income before income taxes | |||
Domestic | $ 264,423 | $ 231,862 | $ 228,756 |
Foreign | 14,995 | 11,643 | 11,822 |
Income before income taxes | $ 279,418 | $ 243,505 | $ 240,578 |
Income Taxes (Provision For) Be
Income Taxes (Provision For) Benefit from Continuing Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Current: | |||
U.S. federal | $ (50,435) | $ (43,141) | $ (38,416) |
State | (13,730) | (9,152) | (7,039) |
Foreign | (11,620) | (9,537) | (8,512) |
Current tax provision | (75,785) | (61,830) | (53,967) |
Deferred: | |||
U.S. federal | 2,163 | (3,868) | (52) |
State | 564 | (2,629) | 15,993 |
Foreign | (1,920) | 2,192 | (2,160) |
Deferred tax benefit (provision) | 807 | (4,305) | 13,781 |
Income tax provision | $ (74,978) | $ (66,135) | $ (40,186) |
Income Taxes Deferred Tax Asset
Income Taxes Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Deferred Tax Assets | ||
Operating and finance lease liabilities | $ 339,655 | $ 355,653 |
Net operating loss and credit carryforwards | 58,170 | 58,030 |
Deferred revenue | 23,848 | 23,617 |
Unfavorable leases | 17,104 | 19,085 |
Accrued compensation and related benefits | 15,786 | 14,577 |
Accrued expenses and reserves | 6,802 | 7,012 |
Other | 11,243 | 8,275 |
Valuation allowances | (39,346) | (35,680) |
Total deferred tax assets | 433,262 | 450,569 |
Deferred Tax Liabilities | ||
Operating and finance lease assets | (310,011) | (326,646) |
Intangible assets | (290,782) | (285,688) |
Fixed assets | (62,673) | (66,830) |
Other | (40,149) | (41,826) |
Total deferred tax liabilities | (703,615) | (720,990) |
Total deferred tax liabilities, net | $ (270,353) | $ (270,421) |
Income Taxes Income Taxes Net O
Income Taxes Income Taxes Net Operating Losses and Tax Credits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Summary of Net Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards | |||
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount | $ 21,084 | ||
Net Operating Loss Carryforwards | 975,624 | ||
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance | 39,346 | $ 35,680 | |
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, (Decrease) Increase, Amount | 3,666 | $ (2,597) | $ (11,691) |
Domestic Tax Authority | |||
Summary of Net Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards | |||
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount | 17,111 | ||
State and Local Jurisdiction | 2024 - 2035 | |||
Summary of Net Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards | |||
Net Operating Loss Carryforwards | 744,363 | ||
State and Local Jurisdiction | Indefinite | |||
Summary of Net Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards | |||
Net Operating Loss Carryforwards | 219,652 | ||
Foreign Tax Authority | |||
Summary of Net Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards | |||
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount | 3,973 | ||
Net Operating Loss Carryforwards | $ 11,609 |
Income Taxes Refundable Income
Income Taxes Refundable Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Refundable Income Taxes | ||
Income Taxes Receivable, Current | $ 5,284 | $ 3,236 |
Income Taxes Receivable, Noncurrent | $ 0 | $ 0 |
Income Taxes Income Taxes Effec
Income Taxes Income Taxes Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation | |||
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent | 21% | 21% | 21% |
Income tax provision at the U.S. federal statutory rate | $ (58,678) | $ (51,136) | $ (50,521) |
State income tax provision, net of U.S. federal income tax effect | (11,400) | (11,616) | (6,256) |
Prior years' tax matters | (2,250) | 2,290 | 1,820 |
Excess federal tax benefits from share-based compensation | 845 | 402 | 7,160 |
Foreign and U.S. tax effects of foreign operations | 1,799 | (3,744) | (5) |
Valuation allowances | (3,533) | 2,127 | 11,807 |
Non-deductible goodwill | 0 | 0 | (947) |
Tax credits | 1,050 | 1,385 | 1,028 |
Non-deductible executive compensation | (2,863) | (3,154) | (3,810) |
Unrepatriated earnings | (387) | (294) | (282) |
Non-deductible expenses and other | 439 | (2,395) | (180) |
Income tax provision | (74,978) | (66,135) | (40,186) |
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, (Decrease) Increase, Amount | $ 3,666 | $ (2,597) | (11,691) |
Change in State Tax Law | |||
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation | |||
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, (Decrease) Increase, Amount | $ (12,606) |
Income Taxes Unrecognized Tax B
Income Taxes Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Income Tax Contingency | |||
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns | $ 13,208 | ||
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns | |||
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Beginning Balance | 17,404 | $ 18,849 | $ 20,973 |
Tax positions of current year, additions | 836 | 178 | 157 |
Tax positions of prior years, reductions | (690) | (662) | (2,015) |
Settlements, reductions | (249) | (8) | (46) |
Lapse of statute of limitations, reductions | (582) | (953) | (220) |
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Ending Balance | 16,719 | 17,404 | 18,849 |
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Estimated Range of Change, Upper Bound | 220 | ||
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Expense | 134 | (30) | 138 |
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties Income | $ 37 | ||
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued | $ 979 | $ 943 |
Stockholders' Equity (Details)
Stockholders' Equity (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands | 4 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||
Feb. 28, 2022 | Nov. 30, 2021 | Feb. 28, 2022 | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | Jan. 31, 2023 | Apr. 01, 2022 | Feb. 29, 2020 | |
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid | $ 1 | $ 0.50 | $ 0.43 | ||||||
Common Stock, Number of Shares Issued, beginning of year | 470,424 | 470,424 | 470,424 | ||||||
Common Stock, Number of Shares Issued, end of year | 470,424 | 470,424 | 470,424 | ||||||
Stockholders' Equity Activity | |||||||||
Treasury Stock, Number of shares at beginning of year | 257,323 | ||||||||
Treasury Stock, Number of shares at end of year | 265,027 | 257,323 | |||||||
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized | 100,000 | 100,000 | 100,000 | ||||||
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||
Common Stock Held in Treasury | |||||||||
Stockholders' Equity Activity | |||||||||
Treasury Stock, Number of shares at beginning of year | 257,323 | 254,575 | 246,156 | ||||||
Repurchases of common stock | 9,107 | 3,474 | 11,487 | ||||||
Common shares issued, stock options, net | (989) | (353) | (2,657) | ||||||
Common shares issued, restricted stock, net | (322) | (264) | (337) | ||||||
Common shares issued, Director fees | (22) | (22) | (17) | ||||||
Common shares issued, Other | (70) | (87) | (57) | ||||||
Treasury Stock, Number of shares at end of year | 265,027 | 257,323 | 254,575 | ||||||
January 2023 Share Repurchase Program | |||||||||
Stockholders' Equity Activity | |||||||||
Repurchases of common stock | 9,107 | ||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount | $ 500,000 | ||||||||
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method, excluding Commissions | $ 190,000 | ||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Repurchase Accrual | 573 | ||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Excise Tax Accrual | 1,744 | ||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Cost Incurred | 127 | ||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount | $ 310,000 | ||||||||
February 2022 Share Repurchase Program | |||||||||
Stockholders' Equity Activity | |||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount | $ 100,000 | $ 100,000 | |||||||
April 2022 Share Repurchase Program | |||||||||
Stockholders' Equity Activity | |||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount | $ 150,000 | ||||||||
February 2022 and April 2022 Share Repurchase Program | |||||||||
Stockholders' Equity Activity | |||||||||
Repurchases of common stock | 2,759 | ||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount | $ 250,000 | ||||||||
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method, excluding Commissions | $ 51,911 | ||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Cost Incurred | $ 39 | ||||||||
February 2020 Share Repurchase Program | |||||||||
Stockholders' Equity Activity | |||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount | $ 100,000 | ||||||||
May 2021, August 2021, and November 2021 Share Repurchase Program | |||||||||
Stockholders' Equity Activity | |||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount | $ 200,000 | ||||||||
February 2020, May 2021, August 2021 and November 2021 Share Repurchase Program | |||||||||
Stockholders' Equity Activity | |||||||||
Repurchases of common stock | 6,577 | ||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount | $ 300,000 | ||||||||
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method, excluding Commissions | $ 142,715 | ||||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Cost Incurred | $ 93 | ||||||||
2021 Accelerated Share Repurchase Program | |||||||||
Stockholders' Equity Activity | |||||||||
Repurchases of common stock | 715 | 4,910 | 5,625 | ||||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount | $ 125,000 | ||||||||
Initial Shares Delivered Under ASR Agreement Percentage | 85% | ||||||||
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share | $ 22.22 |
Stockholders' Equity Accumulate
Stockholders' Equity Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | |||
Balance at beginning of period | $ (64,176) | $ (48,200) | $ (49,641) |
Foreign currency translation | 5,801 | (15,976) | 1,441 |
Balance at end of period | (58,375) | (64,176) | (48,200) |
Foreign Currency Translation | |||
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | |||
Foreign currency translation | $ 5,801 | $ (15,976) | $ 1,441 |
Share-Based Compensation Summar
Share-Based Compensation Summary (Details) shares in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 shares |
2020 Plan | |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award | |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant | 14,850 |
Share-Based Compensation Stock
Share-Based Compensation Stock Options (Details) - Stock Options - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award | |||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period | 10 years | ||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period | 3 years | ||
Share-based Compensation, Options, Outstanding | |||
Outstanding, beginning of period | 10,890 | ||
Granted | 1,089 | ||
Exercised | (1,104) | ||
Forfeited and/or expired | (385) | ||
Outstanding, end of period | 10,490 | 10,890 | |
Vested or expected to vest, end of period | 10,414 | ||
Exercisable, end of period | 8,153 | ||
Weighted average exercise price, outstanding at beginning of period | $ 19 | ||
Weighted average exercise price, granted | 21.53 | ||
Weighted average exercise price, exercised | 15.27 | ||
Weighted average exercise price, forfeited and/or expired | 22.01 | ||
Weighted average exercise price, outstanding at end of period | 19.55 | $ 19 | |
Weighted average exercise price, vested or expected to vest | 19.53 | ||
Weighted average exercise price, exercisable | $ 18.89 | ||
Weighted average remaining contractual life in years, outstanding | 5 years 9 months 10 days | ||
Weighted average remaining contractual life in years, vested or expected to vest | 5 years 9 months 3 days | ||
Weighted average remaining contractual life in years, exercisable | 4 years 10 months 20 days | ||
Aggregate intrinsic value, outstanding | $ 14,801 | ||
Aggregate intrinsic value, vested or expected to vest | 14,801 | ||
Aggregate intrinsic value, exercisable | 14,801 | ||
Total intrinsic value, exercises in period | $ 7,230 | $ 2,979 | $ 39,522 |
Weighted average grant date fair value, granted | $ 5.35 | $ 6.33 | $ 6.33 |
Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology | |||
Risk-free interest rate | 4.31% | 3% | 0.70% |
Expected option life in years | 5 years 3 days | 4 years 9 months | 4 years 6 months |
Expected volatility | 36.79% | 37.82% | 38% |
Expected dividend yield | 4.64% | 2.34% | 2.03% |
Share-Based Compensation Restri
Share-Based Compensation Restricted Shares (Details) - Restricted Stock - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock, Non-vested, Number of Shares | |||
Non-vested, beginning of period | 1,186 | ||
Granted | 652 | ||
Vested | (370) | ||
Forfeited | (96) | ||
Non-vested, end of period | 1,372 | 1,186 | |
Weighted average grant date fair value, non-vested, beginning of period | $ 20.03 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, granted | 21.70 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, vested | 20.93 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, forfeited | 22.11 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, non-vested, end of period | $ 20.42 | $ 20.03 | |
Total fair value, vested in period | $ 8,224 | $ 5,564 | $ 7,048 |
Minimum | |||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award | |||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period | 1 year | ||
Maximum | |||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award | |||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period | 3 years |
Share-Based Compensation Perfor
Share-Based Compensation Performance Shares (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Share-based Compensation, Performance Shares, Non-vested, Number of Shares | |||
Weighted average grant date fair value, dividend equivalent units issued | $ 0 | ||
Performance Condition Award | |||
Share-based Compensation, Performance Shares, Non-vested, Number of Shares | |||
Non-vested, beginning of period | 584 | ||
Granted | 191 | ||
Dividend equivalent units issued | 28 | ||
Vested | (96) | ||
Forfeited | (99) | ||
Non-vested, end of period | 608 | 584 | |
Weighted average grant date fair value, non-vested, beginning of period | $ 21.67 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, granted | 22.89 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, dividend equivalent units issued | 0 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, vested | 23.37 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, forfeited | 22.44 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, non-vested, end of period | $ 21.66 | $ 21.67 | |
Total fair value, vested in period | $ 2,105 | $ 1,712 | $ 1,784 |
Market Condition Performance Award | |||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award | |||
Risk-free interest rate | 4.31% | 1.71% | 0.20% |
Expected life in years | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years |
Expected volatility | 34.95% | 52.33% | 49.47% |
Expected dividend yield | 0% | 0% | 0% |
Share-based Compensation, Performance Shares, Non-vested, Number of Shares | |||
Non-vested, beginning of period | 462 | ||
Granted | 159 | ||
Dividend equivalent units issued | 23 | ||
Vested | (97) | ||
Forfeited | (53) | ||
Non-vested, end of period | 494 | 462 | |
Weighted average grant date fair value, non-vested, beginning of period | $ 27.38 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, granted | 27.46 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, dividend equivalent units issued | 0 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, vested | 30.31 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, forfeited | 28.47 | ||
Weighted average grant date fair value, non-vested, end of period | $ 26.68 | $ 27.38 | |
Total fair value, vested in period | $ 2,138 | $ 2,253 | $ 3,498 |
Minimum | |||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award | |||
Performance Shares Vesting Range, Percentage of Target | 0% | ||
Maximum | |||
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award | |||
Performance Shares Vesting Range, Percentage of Target | 200% |
Share-Based Compensation Share-
Share-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs | |||
Share-based compensation | $ 23,747 | $ 24,538 | $ 22,019 |
Income tax benefit | (3,207) | (3,043) | (2,790) |
Share-based compensation, net of income tax benefit | 20,540 | 21,495 | 19,229 |
Total share-based compensation not yet recognized, non-vested awards | $ 27,245 | ||
Total share-based compensation not yet recognized, period for recognition, non-vested awards | 1 year 6 months 21 days | ||
Stock Options | |||
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs | |||
Share-based compensation | $ 7,687 | 9,072 | 9,256 |
Restricted Stock | |||
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs | |||
Share-based compensation | 9,503 | 7,106 | 6,677 |
Performance Condition Award | |||
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs | |||
Share-based compensation | 2,524 | 4,431 | 2,861 |
Market Condition Performance Award | |||
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs | |||
Share-based compensation | $ 4,033 | $ 3,929 | $ 3,225 |
Impairment of Long-Lived Asse_3
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets | |||
Impairment of long-lived assets | $ 1,401 | $ 6,420 | $ 2,251 |
Company-operated restaurants | |||
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets | |||
Impairment of long-lived assets | 1,316 | 5,485 | 1,862 |
Restaurants leased or subleased to franchisees | |||
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets | |||
Impairment of long-lived assets | 0 | 242 | 189 |
Surplus properties | |||
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets | |||
Impairment of long-lived assets | $ 85 | $ 693 | $ 200 |
Retirement Benefit Plans Define
Retirement Benefit Plans Defined Contribution Plan (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Defined Contribution Plan | |||
Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee, Percent | 75% | ||
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent | 4% | ||
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount | $ 5,947 | $ 5,929 | $ 4,583 |
Retirement Benefit Plans Deferr
Retirement Benefit Plans Deferred Compensation Plan (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Supplemental Employee Retirement Plans, Defined Benefit | ||
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans | ||
Deferred Compensation Arrangements, Recorded Liability | $ 1,959 | $ 1,435 |
Leases Lessee Lease Narrative (
Leases Lessee Lease Narrative (Details) | Dec. 31, 2023 number_of_restaurants |
Lessee, Lease, Description | |
Number of restaurants | 7,240 |
Entity Operated Units | |
Lessee, Lease, Description | |
Number of restaurants | 415 |
Land And Building - Company Owned | Entity Operated Units | |
Lessee, Lease, Description | |
Number of restaurants | 158 |
Building - Company Owned; Land - Leased | Entity Operated Units | |
Lessee, Lease, Description | |
Number of restaurants | 145 |
Land And Building - Leased | Entity Operated Units | |
Lessee, Lease, Description | |
Number of restaurants | 112 |
Leases Lessor Lease Narrative (
Leases Lessor Lease Narrative (Details) | Dec. 31, 2023 number_of_restaurants |
Lessor, Lease, Description | |
Number of restaurants | 7,240 |
Franchised Units | |
Lessor, Lease, Description | |
Number of restaurants | 6,825 |
Land And Building - Company Owned | Franchised Units | |
Lessor, Lease, Description | |
Number of restaurants | 488 |
Land And Building - Leased | Franchised Units | |
Lessor, Lease, Description | |
Number of restaurants | 1,179 |
Leases Components of Lease Cost
Leases Components of Lease Cost (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Lease, Cost | |||
Amortization of finance lease assets | $ 16,061 | $ 15,440 | $ 13,992 |
Interest on finance lease liabilities | 42,624 | 42,918 | 41,419 |
Total finance lease cost | 58,685 | 58,358 | 55,411 |
Operating lease cost | 85,138 | 86,050 | 89,283 |
Variable lease cost | 66,859 | 64,473 | 63,853 |
Short-term lease cost | 5,864 | 5,439 | 5,102 |
Total operating lease cost | 157,861 | 155,962 | 158,238 |
Total lease cost | 216,546 | 214,320 | 213,649 |
Franchise rental expense | |||
Lease, Cost | |||
Total operating lease cost | 125,180 | 123,924 | 132,158 |
Cost of sales | |||
Lease, Cost | |||
Total operating lease cost | 30,538 | 29,648 | 23,558 |
Executory costs paid by lessee | |||
Lease, Cost | |||
Variable lease cost | $ 39,456 | $ 38,749 | $ 39,646 |
Leases Supplemental Cash Flow a
Leases Supplemental Cash Flow and Non-cash Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Cash Flow, Operating Activities, Lessee | |||
Operating cash flows from finance leases | $ 42,624 | $ 42,979 | $ 42,277 |
Operating cash flows from operating leases | 86,972 | 88,372 | 91,930 |
Cash Flow, Financing Activities, Lessee | |||
Financing cash flows from finance leases | 21,588 | 17,312 | 13,640 |
Lessee, Lease, Description | |||
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for finance lease liabilities | 20,243 | 34,478 | 82,032 |
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities | $ 12,659 | $ 24,742 | $ 58,770 |
Leases Supplemental Information
Leases Supplemental Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Lessee, Lease, Description | ||
Weighted-average remaining lease term (years): Finance leases | 14 years 3 months 18 days | 15 years 1 month 6 days |
Weighted-average remaining lease term (years): Operating leases | 12 years 7 months 6 days | 13 years 8 months 12 days |
Weighted average discount rate: Finance leases | 8.52% | 8.66% |
Weighted average discount rate: Operating leases | 4.93% | 4.90% |
Finance lease assets, gross | $ 318,951 | $ 310,686 |
Accumulated amortization | (90,015) | (76,116) |
Finance lease assets | 228,936 | 234,570 |
Operating lease assets | $ 705,615 | $ 754,498 |
Leases Future Minimum Rental Pa
Leases Future Minimum Rental Payments for Non-cancelable Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Operating Lease Liabilities, Payments Due | ||
Current portion of finance lease liabilities | $ 20,250 | $ 18,316 |
Long-term finance lease liabilities | 568,767 | 571,877 |
Current portion of operating lease liabilities | 49,353 | 48,120 |
Long-term operating lease liabilities | 739,340 | $ 792,051 |
Entity Operated Units | ||
Finance Lease Liabilities, Payments, Due | ||
Future minimum finance lease payments, next twelve months | 6,904 | |
Future minimum finance lease payments, due year two | 7,104 | |
Future minimum finance lease payments, due year three | 7,249 | |
Future minimum finance lease payments, due year four | 7,293 | |
Future minimum finance lease payments, due year five | 7,350 | |
Future minimum finance lease payments, due after year five | 78,045 | |
Total minimum finance lease payments | 113,945 | |
Interest incurred on total minimum finance lease payments | (36,660) | |
Present value of minimum finance lease payments | 77,285 | |
Operating Lease Liabilities, Payments Due | ||
Future minimum operating lease payments, next twelve months | 22,052 | |
Future minimum operating lease payments, due year two | 22,048 | |
Future minimum operating lease payments, due year three | 22,500 | |
Future minimum operating lease payments, due year four | 22,439 | |
Future minimum operating lease payments, due year five | 22,223 | |
Future minimum operating lease payments, due after year five | 169,965 | |
Total minimum operating lease payments | 281,227 | |
Interest incurred on total minimum operating lease payments | (71,529) | |
Present value of minimum operating lease payments | 209,698 | |
Franchised Units | ||
Finance Lease Liabilities, Payments, Due | ||
Future minimum finance lease payments, next twelve months | 55,492 | |
Future minimum finance lease payments, due year two | 56,121 | |
Future minimum finance lease payments, due year three | 57,817 | |
Future minimum finance lease payments, due year four | 58,702 | |
Future minimum finance lease payments, due year five | 59,919 | |
Future minimum finance lease payments, due after year five | 563,716 | |
Total minimum finance lease payments | 851,767 | |
Interest incurred on total minimum finance lease payments | (340,035) | |
Present value of minimum finance lease payments | 511,732 | |
Operating Lease Liabilities, Payments Due | ||
Future minimum operating lease payments, next twelve months | 64,636 | |
Future minimum operating lease payments, due year two | 64,432 | |
Future minimum operating lease payments, due year three | 63,967 | |
Future minimum operating lease payments, due year four | 63,678 | |
Future minimum operating lease payments, due year five | 63,869 | |
Future minimum operating lease payments, due after year five | 469,484 | |
Total minimum operating lease payments | 790,066 | |
Interest incurred on total minimum operating lease payments | (211,071) | |
Present value of minimum operating lease payments | $ 578,995 |
Leases Components of Lease Inco
Leases Components of Lease Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Lessor Lease Income | |||
Sales-type leases, selling profit | $ 2,466 | $ 2,981 | $ 4,244 |
Sales-type and direct-financing leases, interest income | 31,412 | 31,298 | 30,648 |
Operating lease income | 163,927 | 170,633 | 173,442 |
Variable lease income | 66,241 | 63,832 | 63,213 |
Sublease income | 170,112 | 175,053 | 174,327 |
Real Estate | |||
Lessor Lease Income | |||
Franchise rental income | $ 230,168 | $ 234,465 | $ 236,655 |
Franchise rental income | Revenues | Revenues | Revenues |
Executory costs paid to lessor | |||
Lessor Lease Income | |||
Sublease income | $ 39,350 | $ 38,733 | $ 39,650 |
Leases Future Minimum Rental Re
Leases Future Minimum Rental Receipts for Non-cancelable Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Direct Financing Lease, Net Investment in Leases | ||
Net investment in unguaranteed residual assets | $ 590 | |
Subleases, sales-type and direct financing | ||
Sales-type and Direct Financing Leases, Lease Receivable, Fiscal Year Maturity | ||
Future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts, next twelve months | 38,890 | |
Future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts, due year two | 37,826 | |
Future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts, due year three | 39,136 | |
Future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts, due year four | 39,719 | |
Future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts, due year five | 40,684 | |
Future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts, due after year five | 399,480 | |
Total future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts | 595,735 | |
Unearned interest on total minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts | (288,461) | |
Present value of minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts | 307,274 | |
Owned properties, sales-type and direct financing | ||
Sales-type and Direct Financing Leases, Lease Receivable, Fiscal Year Maturity | ||
Future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts, next twelve months | 2,087 | |
Future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts, due year two | 2,194 | |
Future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts, due year three | 2,364 | |
Future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts, due year four | 2,244 | |
Future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts, due year five | 1,999 | |
Future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts, due after year five | 25,730 | |
Total future minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts | 36,618 | |
Unearned interest on total minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts | (19,449) | |
Present value of minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts | 17,169 | |
Subleases, operating | ||
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity | ||
Future minimum operating lease receipts, next twelve months | 106,470 | |
Future minimum operating lease receipts, due year two | 106,616 | |
Future minimum operating lease receipts, due year three | 106,840 | |
Future minimum operating lease receipts, due year four | 107,263 | |
Future minimum operating lease receipts, due year five | 107,652 | |
Future minimum operating lease receipts, due after year five | 783,633 | |
Total future minimum operating lease receipts | 1,318,474 | |
Owned properties, operating | ||
Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity | ||
Future minimum operating lease receipts, next twelve months | 54,946 | |
Future minimum operating lease receipts, due year two | 55,549 | |
Future minimum operating lease receipts, due year three | 57,308 | |
Future minimum operating lease receipts, due year four | 56,954 | |
Future minimum operating lease receipts, due year five | 56,741 | |
Future minimum operating lease receipts, due after year five | 542,967 | |
Total future minimum operating lease receipts | 824,465 | |
Accounts and notes receivable, net | ||
Sales-type and Direct Financing Leases, Lease Receivable, Fiscal Year Maturity | ||
Present value of minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts | 10,779 | $ 8,263 |
Net investment in sales-type and direct financing leases | ||
Sales-type and Direct Financing Leases, Lease Receivable, Fiscal Year Maturity | ||
Present value of minimum sales-type and direct financing lease receipts | $ 313,664 |
Leases Properties Leased to Thi
Leases Properties Leased to Third Parties (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 |
Property, Plant and Equipment | ||
Properties owned by Company and leased to franchisees under operating lease, before accumulated depreciation | $ 558,068 | $ 554,010 |
Accumulated depreciation and amortization | (198,429) | (187,269) |
Properties owned by Company and leased to franchisees under operating lease, after accumulated depreciation | 359,639 | 366,741 |
Land | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment | ||
Properties owned by Company and leased to franchisees under operating lease, before accumulated depreciation | 260,125 | 260,650 |
Buildings and improvements | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment | ||
Properties owned by Company and leased to franchisees under operating lease, before accumulated depreciation | 296,242 | 291,659 |
Restaurant equipment | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment | ||
Properties owned by Company and leased to franchisees under operating lease, before accumulated depreciation | $ 1,701 | $ 1,701 |
Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_3
Supplemental Cash Flow Information Long-term Debt Related Activities, Net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Long-term debt-related activities, net: | |||
Loss on early extinguishment of debt | $ (2,283) | $ 0 | $ 17,917 |
Accretion of long-term debt | 755 | 1,194 | 1,177 |
Amortization of deferred financing costs | 6,848 | 6,568 | 5,664 |
Long-term debt-related activities, net: | $ 5,320 | $ 7,762 | $ 24,758 |
Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_4
Supplemental Cash Flow Information Cash Paid For (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Cash paid for: | |||
Interest | $ 146,878 | $ 144,418 | $ 133,284 |
Income taxes, net of refunds | $ 75,190 | $ 47,769 | $ 54,779 |
Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_5
Supplemental Cash Flow Information Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] | |||
Capital expenditures included in accounts payable | $ 9,088 | $ 14,468 | $ 6,158 |
Finance leases | $ 20,243 | $ 34,478 | $ 82,032 |
Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_6
Supplemental Cash Flow Information Reconciliation of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | Jan. 03, 2021 |
Additional Cash Flow Elements and Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 516,037 | $ 745,889 | $ 249,438 | |
Restricted cash | 35,848 | 35,203 | 27,535 | |
Restricted cash, included in Advertising funds restricted assets | 36,931 | 50,709 | 89,993 | |
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ 588,816 | $ 831,801 | $ 366,966 | $ 418,241 |
Guarantees and Other Commitme_2
Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Franchisee Image Activation Programs (Details) | 12 Months Ended | |
Feb. 28, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2023 | |
Maximum | 2023 New Build Incentive Program | ||
Other commitments | ||
Years of reduction in royalty payment attributable to new builds | 3 years | |
Maximum | 2021 New Build Incentive Program | ||
Other commitments | ||
Years of reduction in royalty payment attributable to new builds | 2 years | |
Maximum | Remodel Incentive Program | ||
Other commitments | ||
Years of early franchise agreement renewal attributable to incentive program | 25 | |
Minimum | Remodel Incentive Program | ||
Other commitments | ||
Years of early franchise agreement renewal attributable to incentive program | 20 |
Guarantees and Other Commitme_3
Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Lease Guarantees (Details) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) |
Property Lease Guarantee | |
Guarantor Obligations | |
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted | $ 98,148 |
Guarantees and Other Commitme_4
Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Insurance (Details) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) |
Other commitments | |
Accrued Risk Insurance | $ 17,157 |
Accrued Health Insurance | 3,089 |
Insurance Claims | |
Other commitments | |
Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss per Occurrence, Maximum | $ 500 |
Guarantees and Other Commitme_5
Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Letters of Credit (Details) $ in Thousands | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) |
Guarantor Obligations | |
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount | $ 28,847 |
Guarantees and Other Commitme_6
Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Beverage Agreement (Details) - Beverage Agreement - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Long-term Purchase Commitment | |||
Purchase Obligation, Purchases During Period | $ 11,893 | $ 10,545 | $ 9,709 |
Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months | 12,400 | ||
Purchase Obligation, Due in Second Year | 12,700 | ||
Accounts payable | |||
Long-term Purchase Commitment | |||
Amount Due from (to) Vendors for Purchase and Capital Commitments | $ 3,906 |
Guarantees and Other Commitme_7
Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Marketing Agreement (Details) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) Broadcasters | Jan. 01, 2023 USD ($) | Jan. 02, 2022 USD ($) | |
Long-term Purchase Commitment | |||
Number of National Broadcasters | Broadcasters | 2 | ||
Marketing Agreement | |||
Long-term Purchase Commitment | |||
Purchase Obligation, Purchases During Period | $ 16,000 | $ 12,000 | $ 15,000 |
Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months | 16,300 | ||
Purchase Obligation, Due in Second Year | $ 12,700 |
Transactions with Related Par_3
Transactions with Related Parties Related Party Transaction Summary (Details) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | |||||
Jan. 07, 2021 number_of_restaurants | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) number_of_restaurants | Jan. 01, 2023 USD ($) | Jan. 02, 2022 USD ($) | Jun. 30, 2021 USD ($) ft² | Nov. 30, 2018 USD ($) ft² | |
Related Party Transaction | ||||||
Number of Restaurants | number_of_restaurants | 7,240 | |||||
Accounts receivable, net | $ 104,797 | $ 98,563 | ||||
Advertising funds restricted liabilities | $ 120,558 | 132,307 | ||||
Franchised Units | ||||||
Related Party Transaction | ||||||
Number of Restaurants | number_of_restaurants | 6,825 | |||||
QSCC | ||||||
Related Party Transaction | ||||||
Proceeds from Rents Received | $ 231 | 198 | $ 217 | |||
Area of Real Estate Property | ft² | 18,774 | 14,493 | ||||
Annual Base Rent | $ 250 | $ 217 | ||||
QSCC | Cost of sales | Patronage Dividends | ||||||
Related Party Transaction | ||||||
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party | 363 | 427 | 279 | |||
TimWen | ||||||
Related Party Transaction | ||||||
Operating Costs and Expenses | 20,653 | 19,694 | 18,687 | |||
TimWen | Franchise Rental Expense | ||||||
Related Party Transaction | ||||||
Operating Costs and Expenses | 20,894 | 19,927 | 18,906 | |||
TimWen | General and administrative | Management Fee Income | ||||||
Related Party Transaction | ||||||
Other Operating Income | $ 241 | 233 | 219 | |||
Yellow Cab | Franchised Units | ||||||
Related Party Transaction | ||||||
Number of Restaurants | number_of_restaurants | 83 | |||||
Significant Changes, Franchises Purchased During Period | number_of_restaurants | 54 | |||||
Yellow Cab | Royalty, Advertising Fund, Lease, and Other Income | ||||||
Related Party Transaction | ||||||
Other Operating Income | $ 14,757 | 13,404 | 9,869 | |||
Yellow Cab | Accounts Receivable and Advertising Funds Restricted Assets | Royalty, Advertising Fund, Lease, and Other Income | ||||||
Related Party Transaction | ||||||
Accounts receivable, net | 1,153 | 1,125 | ||||
AMC | Advertising Funds Expense | ||||||
Related Party Transaction | ||||||
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party | 2,366 | $ 0 | $ 0 | |||
AMC | Advertising funds restricted liabilities | Advertising Funds Expense | ||||||
Related Party Transaction | ||||||
Advertising funds restricted liabilities | $ 584 |
Advertising Costs and Funds (De
Advertising Costs and Funds (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Restricted Assets and Liabilities | |||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 35,848 | $ 35,203 | $ 27,535 |
Accounts receivable, net | 104,797 | 98,563 | |
Advertising funds restricted assets | 117,755 | 126,673 | |
Accounts payable | 27,370 | 43,996 | |
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities | 135,149 | 116,010 | |
Advertising funds restricted liabilities | 120,558 | 132,307 | |
Cost of sales | |||
Restricted Assets and Liabilities | |||
Advertising Expense | 38,837 | 37,418 | $ 31,617 |
Advertising funds restricted assets | |||
Restricted Assets and Liabilities | |||
Cash and cash equivalents | 36,931 | 50,709 | |
Accounts receivable, net | 76,838 | 70,422 | |
Other assets | 3,986 | 5,542 | |
Advertising funds restricted liabilities | |||
Restricted Assets and Liabilities | |||
Accounts payable | 101,796 | 115,339 | |
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities | $ 18,762 | $ 16,968 |
Geographic Information (Details
Geographic Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets | |||
Revenues | $ 2,181,578 | $ 2,095,505 | $ 1,896,998 |
Properties | 891,080 | 895,778 | 906,867 |
U.S. | |||
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets | |||
Revenues | 2,007,727 | 1,946,005 | 1,771,997 |
Properties | 830,492 | 841,143 | 856,841 |
International | |||
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets | |||
Revenues | 173,851 | 149,500 | 125,001 |
Properties | $ 60,588 | $ 54,635 | $ 50,026 |
Segment Information Reconciliat
Segment Information Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item | |||
Total revenues | $ 2,181,578 | $ 2,095,505 | $ 1,896,998 |
Wendy's U.S. | |||
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item | |||
Total revenues | 1,815,845 | 1,750,242 | 1,567,496 |
Wendy's International | |||
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item | |||
Total revenues | 130,548 | 106,705 | 86,369 |
Global Real Estate & Development | |||
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item | |||
Total revenues | $ 235,185 | $ 238,558 | $ 243,133 |
Segment Information Reconcili_2
Segment Information Reconciliation of Profit from Segments to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Profit from Segment to Consolidated | |||
Segment profit | $ 381,984 | $ 353,314 | $ 366,960 |
Unallocated franchise support and other costs | (57,243) | (46,736) | (42,900) |
Advertising funds surplus (deficit) | 4,344 | (8,325) | 2,770 |
Unallocated general and administrative | (249,964) | (254,979) | (242,970) |
Depreciation and amortization (exclusive of amortization of cloud computing arrangements shown separately below) | (135,789) | (133,414) | (125,540) |
Amortization of cloud computing arrangements | 12,778 | 2,394 | 0 |
System optimization gains, net | 880 | 6,779 | 33,545 |
Reorganization and realignment costs | (9,200) | (698) | (8,548) |
Impairment of long-lived assets | (1,401) | (6,420) | (2,251) |
Unallocated other operating income, net | 13,768 | 23,683 | 14,468 |
Interest expense, net | (124,061) | (122,319) | (109,185) |
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt, net | 2,283 | 0 | (17,917) |
Investment (loss) income, net | (10,358) | 2,107 | 39 |
Other income, net | 29,570 | 10,403 | 681 |
Income before income taxes | 279,418 | 243,505 | 240,578 |
Corporate and Other | |||
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Profit from Segment to Consolidated | |||
Unallocated franchise support and other costs | (831) | (742) | (753) |
Unallocated general and administrative | (132,344) | (130,103) | (116,273) |
Unallocated other operating income, net | 1,563 | 9,001 | 394 |
Operating Segments | |||
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Profit from Segment to Consolidated | |||
Segment profit | 667,540 | 619,630 | 583,616 |
Operating Segments | Wendy's U.S. | |||
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Profit from Segment to Consolidated | |||
Segment profit | 528,352 | 480,498 | 450,117 |
Advertising funds surplus (deficit) | (11,000) | (25,000) | |
Operating Segments | Wendy's International | |||
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Profit from Segment to Consolidated | |||
Segment profit | 35,704 | 30,432 | 27,386 |
Advertising funds surplus (deficit) | (2,401) | (4,116) | |
Other international-related advertising deficit | (950) | (1,099) | |
Operating Segments | Global Real Estate & Development | |||
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Profit from Segment to Consolidated | |||
Segment profit | $ 103,484 | $ 108,700 | $ 106,113 |
Segment Information Reconcili_3
Segment Information Reconciliation of Other Significant Reconciling Items from Segments to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2023 | Jan. 01, 2023 | Jan. 02, 2022 | |
Global Real Estate & Development | |||
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item | |||
Total net income of equity method investments | $ 10,819 | $ 9,422 | $ 11,203 |