Corrib Oil has announced that it is to become global quick-service restaurant brand Wendy’s first franchise partner in Ireland.
Corrib confirmed today that, as part of the first phase of the agreement, it plans to open ten Wendy’s restaurants across the country in the 2025-27 period.
Initial site locations will consist of stand-alone Wendy’s restaurants, as well as Wendy’s offerings in existing Corrib service stations.
Corrib and Wendy’s will announce Irish site locations in the new year.
The company has also appointed commercial property firm Cushman & Wakefield to advise on the site selection process.
The new partnership will create approximately 300 jobs in the first phase, with recruitment starting in early 2025.
Wendy’s also anticipates sourcing ingredients locally, wherever possible, as part of the Irish roll-out, and that all Wendy’s fresh beef will be 100% certified and Irish.
Corrib Oil, founded in 1987, currently operates 38 convenience stores, with forecourts across 17 counties, and, along with its energy division, currently employs 1,150 people.
This will subsequently increase to 1,450 once the restaurants are rolled out.
Wendy’s is one of the world’s leading quick-service restaurant brands, with headquarters in Dublin, Ohio.
Since it first opened in the US, in 1969, it has grown to over 7,200 restaurants, with more than 1,200 international locations.
In addition to Ireland, Wendy’s global growth plan also includes Romania, Northern Ireland, Poland, Czechia, Spain, Portugal and France.
‘A New Food Experience’
Speaking about the partnership, the chief executive of Corrib Oil, Eugene Dalton, said, “We are delighted to announce this exciting new partnership with Wendy’s.
“This collaboration brings together two brands that share a commitment to quality, community, and exceptional customer experience.
“The opportunity to bring such a globally recognised brand as Wendy’s to Ireland offers a new food experience for Irish customers.
“In this first phase, we plan to open at ten locations, commencing in the first half of next year.”
On the brand, Dalton said, “For more than 50 years, Wendy’s has been a leader in the quick-service restaurant sector, with a commitment to quality, freshness, customer and community.
“We look forward to providing further updates on the launch of the Wendy’s brand in Ireland, including site locations, employment opportunities, and timelines early in the new year.”
E.J. Wunsch, international president of the Wendy’s Company, added, “Ireland is a great market for long-term growth for Wendy’s.
“Corrib Oil has a deep understanding of the local communities and a long-standing reputation for excellence.
“We are thrilled to welcome them to the Wendy’s family.
“Their customer-centric philosophy aligns perfectly with Wendy’s promise of delivering exceptional customer experiences and ensuring top-notch hospitality.
“With a proven track record of outstanding operations and a significant growth history, we are confident that Corrib Oil is the right partner to drive Wendy’s expansion in Ireland.”
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