Wendys Opens 1st Joint Venture in Japan

DUBLIN, OhioThe Wendys Company opened its first joint venture Wendys® restaurant in Japan on Dec. 26. Located in Tokyos upscale Omotesando area, the restaurants menu features signature Wendys products and innovative new menu options created exclusively for the Japanese market, including the Avocado Wasabi hamburger and the Truffle and Porcini Grilled Chicken sandwich.

Wendys Japan LLC plans to open approximately 100 Wendys restaurants within the next five years and estimates the long-term market potential to be about 700 restaurants. Wendys Japan LLC was established earlier this year as a joint venture between Wendys and Higa Industries Co. Ltd. Ernest Higa, founder of Higa Industries and CEO of the joint venture, successfully owned and operated 180 Dominos Pizza stores in Japan before selling this business in February 2010.

We are delighted to join with a highly capable partner, Ernie Higa, to bring Wendys brand to Japan and rapidly grow our presence in one of the largest quick-service restaurant markets in the world. The opening of our first joint venture restaurant in Japan is an important step in our international growth plans, and an expression of our confidence in the bright future of Japan," said Darrell van Ligten, President, International, The Wendys Company.