Wendy’s New Zealand snapped up by the Flynn Group

Wendy's NZ Flynn Group (1)
Wendy’s Rotorua, New Zealand. (Source: Supplied)

The US-based franchisee giant Flynn Group has acquired Wendy’s New Zealand. The franchisee also holds the master franchise agreement for Wendy’s and Pizza Hut in Australia,

The family-owned Wendco (NZ) Limited business has been the sole Wendy’s franchisee in New Zealand since 1988. It now has a footprint of more than 20 Wendy’s restaurants across both islands.

The acquisition is Flynn’s third international investment within the past 12 months. It purchased the Pizza Hut Australia licence in June 2023, and two months later revealed its agreement to develop the Wendy’s brand in Australia.

Pizza Hut Australia and Wendy’s Australia CEO Phil Reed will step into the role of president for Flynn ANZ.

Flynn Group aims to double Wendy’s NZ footprint

Reed said “This was an incredible milestone for Flynn as we advance our mission to expand internationally. There’s strong momentum and we’re keen to support the local team in every way possible with ambitions to double the number of Wendy’s restaurants across the country,” he said.

Flynn plans to retain the current operations and support teams and to increase job opportunities as it grows the brand.

Ron Bellamy, COO for Flynn Group, said the immediate priority is collaborating with the team to leverage scale and capabilities.

“The acquisition of the Wendy’s New Zealand business represented a compelling opportunity to continue our growth ambitions internationally and to expand our strong partnership with the much-loved Wendy’s brand,” he said.

Abigail Pringle, the president, international and chief development officer for The Wendy’s Company said she is confident the Flynn Group can propel the brand forward.

“Flynn Group has incredible experience in the restaurant space, and we are thrilled to expand our relationship with them in New Zealand,” she said.

Flynn Group is the largest franchise operator in the world. Its has a predominantly restaurant-brand portfolio, except for Planet Fitness.