Wendy's Consolidates HQ In Dublin, Ohio

The Wendy's Co. said it would consolidate its world headquarters in Dublin, Ohio, and close its restaurant support center in Atlanta in late 2012, relocating 170 positions to the Buckeye State.

For the past three years, Wendy's has operated corporate offices in both Dublin and Atlanta, following the September 2008 merger with former Arby's parent Triarc Cos., which created the Wendy's/Arby's Group. That company was broken apart this July when Arby's Restaurant Group was sold to Atlanta-based Roark Capital Group.

"While this was a difficult decision considering the excellent employees we have in Atlanta, I believe it is important to bring our entire restaurant support center together in one location," said Wendy's president and chief executive Emil Brolick. "This action will help us strengthen collaboration and teamwork as we grow our iconic brand."

In August, the newly formed Wendy's Co. said it would move its corporate headquarters from Atlanta to Dublin, taking 50 jobs with it. The company also shared plans for a renovation of its facilities at One Dave Thomas Boulevard that would cost about $11 million.

According to a statement from Connie Wehrkamp, deputy press secretary for Ohio Gov. John Kasich, the city of Dublin and the state of Ohio offered an $8.4 million job creation tax credit and a $500,000 economic development grant to consolidate headquarters in Dublin.

"Wendy's is an iconic Ohio company that belongs right here in Central Ohio," Wehrkamp wrote. "We're thrilled to have them back and thrilled that companies are beginning to respond favorably to our efforts to recreate a jobs-friendly climate in Ohio."

Wendy's now plans to invest additional capital to expand its corporate offices and meeting space in Dublin, the company said. Most Atlanta-based employees will be offered the opportunity to relocate to Ohio and will receive retention bonuses for doing so. Those not relocating will receive severance packages, outplacement counseling and other benefits.

Wendy's has 296 restaurants in Georgia and will retain a South regional office in Alpharetta, Ga.

Wendy's operates or franchises more than 6,500 restaurants in the United States and 25 international markets.

Contact Mark Brandau at mark.brandau@penton.com.
Follow him on Twitter: @Mark_from_NRN