Wendy’s® arrives in Romania

Wendy’s®, one of the most renowned international quick-service restaurant (QSR) brands, is officially bringing its square-shaped burgers, made with fresh, never frozen beef, along with chicken sandwiches, nuggets, and the creamy Frosty® dessert to Romania. The brand confirmed its entry into the local market through a franchise partnership with JKC Capital, a Canada-based entrepreneurial company.

The first two restaurants set to open in the first half of the year. Across its entire portfolio, JKC Capital plans to invest over $200 million in Romania and create approximately 1,500 new jobs over the next 10 years.

“This launch marks an important milestone for us as the brand enters a dynamic market with significant growth potential. Romania has a strong culinary tradition, and we believe Wendy’s will offer local consumers an unforgettable dining experience with fresh ingredients and high-quality standards,” said John Chayka, Chief Executive Officer at JKC Capital.

“We are confident in the long-term success of our company and our ability to build strong local partnerships that contribute to community development. We can’t wait for Wendy’s to reach as many people as possible in Romania and the region,” added Kathryn Chayka, Operating Partner at JKC Capital.

“Wendy’s is expanding its opportunities across Europe. Loved worldwide for our fresh and iconic products, we are thrilled to introduce Wendy’s to Romanian consumers and local fans. With a proven and experienced partner like JKC Capital, who shares our passion for the Wendy’s business, we are building a strong and well-differentiated QSR brand in every market we enter,” said Michael Clarke, Managing Director, Wendy’s Europe.

A MKOR Consulting market study conducted by the company shows that Wendy’s is highly anticipated in Romania, especially among younger consumers, ranking as the second most desired international fast-food brand.

The study also highlights that fast-food brands are widely appreciated in Romania, with 94% of Romanians consuming fast food. Among them, 33% eat fast food at least once a week, while 39% indulge a few times a month. On average, Romanians consume fast food approximately once a week (3.9 times per month), with younger consumers under 27 eating it 1.3 times per week.

Wendy’s will use 100% Romanian chicken, featuring only whole, cut chicken breast—never minced—for its signature menu items, including the Spicy Chicken Sandwich, nuggets, and chicken strips. This commitment ensures premium quality and the unmistakable taste in every bite.

Wendy’s is also known for its fully customizable menu, allowing Romanian consumers to add or remove ingredients to suit their dietary needs and taste preferences.

“At JKC, we are committed to delivering exceptional food and experiences that keep our customers coming back. We see tremendous growth potential in Romania, along with an opportunity to expand our presence in the quick-service restaurant industry. We are excited about the long-term value this market offers to us and the Wendy’s brand,” said Radu Bolohan, Vice President of JKC Capital.

JKC Capital, Wendy’s franchise partner in Romania, has a team with extensive international experience in restaurant management. The company owns and operates JKC Restaurants, Canada’s fastest-growing family restaurant business, founded in 2015 by Kathryn and John Chayka. JKC Restaurants is the largest Wendy’s franchisee in Canada, with 61 Wendy’s locations in its portfolio.

For Wendy’s expansion in Romania, JKC Capital partnered with Radu Bolohan, who currently serves as Vice President of JKC Capital, bringing his expertise in investment and strategic development.