Major US fast food chain gives update on Irish opening as fans set to go crazy

Legendary fast food chain Wendy’s is set to open in Ireland next year.

The US company said it plans to develop hundreds of restaurants across Europe over the next decade.

Plans to open in the Republic of Ireland, as well as in Romania, are underway for 2025.

The company returned to the UK in 2021 and expects to have up to 50 restaurants across the Atlantic by the end of the year.

Known and loved for their square beef patties, other favorites include chili, baked potatoes and their frozen dessert.

Wendy’s founder Dave Thomas opened the first Wendy’s restaurant in 1969 and the Wendy character is now recognizable around the world.

A spokesperson said, “Wendy’s offers a wide range of signature dishes that fans know and love, including the Baconator®, Dave’s Single™, Spicy Chicken Sandwich and Frosty® dessert, which is thick enough to use a spoon and smooth enough to use a straw.”

With 7,000 Wendy’s restaurants worldwide, the company is actively recruiting established franchise candidates in European markets.

They are looking for someone with strong operational experience, local development expertise and a proven track record of growing brands at an accelerated pace.

The spokesperson added: “Dave’s core values ​​of ‘quality is our recipe,’ ‘do the right thing,’ and ‘treat people with respect,’ remain the guiding light of the Wendy’s system today.

“Today, Wendy’s and its franchisees employ hundreds of thousands of people in more than 7,000 restaurants worldwide, with a vision to become the world’s most successful and beloved restaurant brand.”

Michael Clarke, Managing Director of Wendy’s Europe, said: “This is an exciting time to be with the Wendy’s team in Europe.

“Brand fans and customers continue to ask us, ‘Where is Wendy’s opening next?’

“We are ready to meet demand by bringing more Wendy’s to more people, putting our fresh, high-quality, delicious food in the hands of European consumers where they live, work and play.”

EJ Wunch, President, International, The Wendy’s Company, said, “As we continue our journey to become a more globally significant brand, Europe is a high priority strategic growth market to expand Wendy’s presence internationally.

“To accelerate our momentum, we are focused on building relationships with franchisees who share our ambition to grow and expand the Wendy’s restaurant footprint across the continent.”

Meanwhile, McDonald’s has confirmed a radical overhaul of its menu, which will include all-new items and a new side to rival mozzarella bites.

The fast food giant is set to launch a total of seven new products in the coming weeks, including some returning favorites.

New and existing items will be on menus across the UK and Ireland from 17th July.

Among the range is the brand new Birthday Cake donut, which is sure to be a big hit with sweet tooths.

The donut will be filled with a strawberry flavored filling and topped with a buttercream flavored frosting and sprinkles.

Other new additions to its offering are the Milkybar Raspberry Ripple McFlurry and the Munchies Cookie Dough McFlurry.

Additionally, McDonald’s has launched a new side dish: Cheesy Garlic Bread Dips.

Popular dishes returning to menus include the Double Big Mac and the Double Big Mac with Bacon.

Fans of McCrispy BBQ Smokehouse will be able to enjoy the burger again as it is set to return to menus.