Fast Food: Peltz Group Offers $7.35 per Share to Take Wendy's Private

Wendy's shares jumped 15% on Wednesday following a proposal by Nelson Peltz to acquire the struggling burger chain. The offer from Peltz and his partners represents a cash payment of $7.35 for each share. This figure provides a premium of nearly 19% compared to the stock's closing price on Tuesday.

The chain has faced financial headwinds for several years. Wendy's stock has dropped 25% over the last 12 months. Sales in existing restaurants have declined for more than two years, including drops in the first and second quarters of 2026. The company, founded in 1969 by Dave Thomas, is headquartered in Dublin, Ohio.

Peltz wrote to the company's board of directors regarding the proposal. He stated that taking the firm private would provide the best outcome for its various stakeholders. "Wendy's is at a critical juncture," Peltz wrote in the letter. He noted that the external environment has become increasingly difficult due to pressure on U.S. consumers, economic uncertainty, and persistent inflation in raw material costs.

The investor also pointed to intensifying competition within the quick service restaurant sector. Trian Fund Management, the firm led by Peltz, holds a 16.3% stake in Wendy's. A regulatory document filed on Wednesday confirmed this ownership percentage. Peltz has previously invested in companies such as Procter & Gamble, Disney, and DuPont.

Wendy's declined to comment on the offer. The company is scheduled to release its quarterly financial results next week. Analysts project the chain will report earnings of 9 cents per share. They estimate total sales will average $531 million for the period.

On Wednesday, Wendy's stock gained 91 cents to close at $7.05. The bid comes as the company navigates challenges related to meat prices and consumer spending habits.