The Wendy's Company (WEN) 10-K 26 Feb 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Feb. 18, 2015	Jun. 27, 2014
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	WENDY'S CO
Entity Central Index Key	30697
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-16
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	28-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		367,628,227
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$2,380.80

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$267,276	$580,152
Accounts and notes receivable	73,358	62,885
Inventories	8,807	10,226
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	73,692	81,759
Deferred income tax benefit	73,661	120,206
Advertising funds restricted assets	65,308	67,183
Total current assets	562,102	922,411
Properties	1,271,238	1,165,487
Goodwill	822,562	842,544
Other intangible assets	1,351,365	1,305,780
Investments	74,054	83,197
Other assets	64,521	43,621
Total assets	4,145,842	4,363,040
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	53,777	38,543
Accounts payable	80,463	83,700
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	140,676	160,100
Advertising funds restricted liabilities	65,308	67,183
Total current liabilities	340,224	349,526
Long-term debt	1,394,366	1,425,285
Deferred income taxes	493,843	482,499
Other liabilities	199,833	176,244
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock, $0.10 par value; 1,500,000 shares authorized; 470,424 shares issued	47,042	47,042
Additional paid-in capital	2,826,965	2,794,445
Accumulated deficit	-445,917	-492,215
Common stock held in treasury, at cost	-679,220	-409,449
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-31,294	-10,337
Total stockholders’ equity	1,717,576	1,929,486
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$4,145,842	$4,363,040

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Ba

Consolidated Balance Sheets Balance Sheet Parentheticals (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Jan. 01, 2012
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$0.10	$0.10
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	1,500,000	1,500,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	470,424	470,424	470,424	470,424

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Revenues:
Sales	$1,670,247	$2,165,829	$2,198,323
Franchise revenues	390,816	321,581	306,919
Total revenues	2,061,063	2,487,410	2,505,242
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales	1,400,796	1,839,740	1,881,248
General and administrative	263,257	293,792	287,808
Depreciation and amortization	159,353	182,359	146,976
Facilities action (income) charges, net	-29,100	10,856	41,031
Impairment of long-lived assets	10,985	15,879	21,097
Impairment of goodwill	0	9,397	0
Other operating expense, net	4,264	245	4,335
Costs and Expenses	1,809,555	2,352,268	2,382,495
Operating profit	251,508	135,142	122,747
Interest expense	-52,192	-69,012	-98,604
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	0	-28,563	-75,076
Investment income, net	1,199	23,565	36,243
Other income (expense), net	754	-2,080	1,565
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	201,269	59,052	-13,125
(Provision for) benefit from income taxes	-79,835	-14,154	21,083
Income from continuing operations	121,434	44,898	7,958
Discontinued operations:
(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes	0	-266	1,951
Loss on disposal of discontinued operations, net of income taxes	0	0	-442
Net (loss) income from discontinued operations	0	-266	1,509
Net income	121,434	44,632	9,467
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	855	-2,384
Net income attributable to The Wendy’s Company	$121,434	$45,487	$7,083
Basic income (loss) per share attributable to The Wendy’s Company:
Continuing operations	$0.33	$0.12	$0.02
Discontinued operations	$0	$0	$0
Net income	$0.33	$0.12	$0.02
Diluted income (loss) per share attributable to The Wendy’s Company:
Continuing operations	$0.32	$0.11	$0.02
Discontinued operations	$0	$0	$0
Net income	$0.32	$0.11	$0.02

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Net income	$121,434	$44,632	$9,467
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-18,560	-16,271	6,096
Change in unrecognized pension loss, net of income tax (provision) benefit of $(160), $37 and $127, respectively	391	-62	-217
Change in unrealized (loss) gain on cash flow hedges, net of income tax benefit (provision) of $1,767 and $(468), respectively	-2,788	744	0
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net	-20,957	-15,589	5,879
Comprehensive income	100,477	29,043	15,346
Comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	126	-2,384
Comprehensive income attributable to The Wendy’s Company	$100,477	$29,169	$12,962

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com1

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Change in unrecognized pension loss, income tax (provision) benefit	($160)	$37	$127
Change in unrealized (loss) gain on cash flow hedges, net of income tax benefit (provision)	$1,767	($468)	$0

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sto

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-In Capital	Accumulated Deficit	Common Stock Held in Treasury	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Noncontrolling Interests
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Stockholders' Equity, beginning of period at Jan. 01, 2012	$1,996,069	$47,042	$2,779,871	($434,999)	($395,947)	$102	$0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Net income (loss)	9,467	0	0	7,083	0	0	2,384
Distribution to noncontrolling interests	-2,384	0	0	0	0	0	-2,384
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net	5,879	0	0	0	0	5,879	0
Cash dividends	-39,043	0	0	-39,043	0	0	0
Share-based compensation	11,473	0	11,473	0	0	0	0
Common stock issued upon exercises of stock options	7,576	0	-2,621	0	10,197	0	0
Common stock issued upon vesting of restricted shares	-417	0	-3,021	0	2,604	0	0
Tax benefit (charge) from share-based compensation	-2,906	0	-2,906	0	0	0	0
Other	141	0	-31	-48	220	0	0
Stockholders' Equity, end of period at Dec. 30, 2012	1,985,855	47,042	2,782,765	-467,007	-382,926	5,981	0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Net income (loss)	44,632	0	0	45,487	0	0	-855
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net	-15,589	0	0	0	0	-16,318	729
Cash dividends	-70,681	0	0	-70,681	0	0	0
Repurchases of common stock	-69,320	0	0	0	-69,320	0	0
Share-based compensation	19,613	0	19,613	0	0	0	0
Common stock issued upon exercises of stock options	39,980	0	-1,665	0	41,645	0	0
Common stock issued upon vesting of restricted shares	-1,887	0	-2,868	0	981	0	0
Tax benefit (charge) from share-based compensation	-3,431	0	-3,431	0	0	0	0
Consolidation of the Japan JV	-2,735	0	0	0	0	0	-2,735
Contributions from noncontrolling interests	219	0	0	0	0	0	219
Deconsolidation of the Japan JV	2,642	0	0	0	0	0	2,642
Other	188	0	31	-14	171	0	0
Stockholders' Equity, end of period at Dec. 29, 2013	1,929,486	47,042	2,794,445	-492,215	-409,449	-10,337	0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Net income (loss)	121,434	0	0	121,434	0	0	0
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net	-20,957	0	0	0	0	-20,957	0
Cash dividends	-75,117	0	0	-75,117	0	0	0
Repurchases of common stock	-301,216	0	0	0	-301,216	0	0
Share-based compensation	28,243	0	28,243	0	0	0	0
Common stock issued upon exercises of stock options	30,775	0	3,485	0	27,290	0	0
Common stock issued upon vesting of restricted shares	-3,806	0	-7,812	0	4,006	0	0
Tax benefit (charge) from share-based compensation	8,546	0	8,546	0	0	0	0
Other	188	0	58	-19	149	0	0
Stockholders' Equity, end of period at Dec. 28, 2014	$1,717,576	$47,042	$2,826,965	($445,917)	($679,220)	($31,294)	$0

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$121,434		$44,632		$9,467
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	159,860		200,219		154,174
Share-based compensation	28,243		19,613		11,473
Impairment (see below)	19,613		45,782		21,097
Deferred income tax	69,540		12,853		-31,598
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	-9,363		0		0
Non-cash rent expense, net	1,951		8,152		7,210
Net receipt (recognition) of deferred vendor incentives	4,063		6,318		-920
(Gain) loss on dispositions, net (see below)	-91,579		-49,714		442
(Gain) loss on sale of investments, net	-975	[1]	799	[1]	-27,769	[1]
Distributions received from TimWen joint venture	13,896		14,116		15,274
Equity in earnings in joint ventures, net	-10,176		-9,722		-8,724
Accretion of long-term debt	1,187		5,942		7,973
Amortization of deferred financing costs	2,438		2,487		4,241
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	0		28,563		75,076
Other, net	-11,686		-8,908		3,093
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts and notes receivable	-2,763		174		3,999
Inventories	706		1,477		-561
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	-2,976		-4,626		-1,360
Accounts payable	-3,105		-380		-9,266
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	-35,532		12,070		-42,906
Net cash provided by operating activities	254,776		329,847		190,415
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	-298,471		-224,245		-197,590
Acquisitions	-53,954		-4,612		-40,608
Dispositions	161,386		149,112		21,023
Changes in restricted cash	1,750		-18,593		0
Investment activities, net (see below)	1,043		21,691		27,949
Other, net	434		-43		-159
Net cash used in investing activities	-187,812		-76,690		-189,385
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt	0		575,000		1,113,750
Repayments of long-term debt	-38,380		-590,293		-1,044,310
Deferred financing costs	0		-7,684		-15,566
Premium payments on redemptions/purchases of notes	0		-8,439		-43,151
Proceeds from termination of interest rate swaps	0		5,708		0
Repurchases of common stock	-301,216		-69,320		0
Dividends	-75,117		-70,681		-39,043
Distribution to noncontrolling interests	0		0		-3,667
Proceeds from stock option exercises	30,788		42,370		7,806
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	9,363		0		0
Other, net	0		438		52
Net cash used in financing activities	-374,562		-122,901		-24,129
Net cash (used in) provided by operations before effect of exchange rate changes on cash	-307,598		130,256		-23,099
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	-5,278		-3,465		1,229
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	-312,876		126,791		-21,870
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	580,152		453,361		475,231
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	267,276		580,152		453,361
Impairment:
System Optimization Remeasurement	8,628		20,506		0
Impairment of long-lived assets	10,985		15,879		21,097
Impairment of goodwill	0		9,397		0
(Gain) loss on dispositions, net:
Gain on sales of restaurants, net	-69,631		-46,667		0
Gain on disposal of assets, net	-21,948		-4,705		0
Loss on disposal of Arby’s	0		0		442
Loss on disposal of the Japan JV	0		1,658		0
Investment activities, net:
Proceeds from sales of investments	2,193		2,691		27,949
Payments for cost method investment	-1,150		0		0
Dividend from Arby's	0		19,000		0
Cash paid for:
Interest	52,357		64,749		110,701
Income taxes, net of refunds	15,826		6,948		10,124
Supplemental non-cash investing and financing activities:
Capital expenditures included in accounts payable	45,409		41,713		22,109
Capitalized lease obligations	22,255		10,767		16,280
Notes receivable	$3,934		$0		$0
[1]	In 2012, we recorded a gain on the sale of our investment in Jurlique of $27,407, which included a loss of $2,913 on the settlement of the derivative transaction. During 2013, we determined that $799 of the remaining escrow would not be received and recorded the reduction of our escrow receivable to “Investment income, net.” In 2014, we received a final escrow payment resulting in a net gain of $199. See Note 6 for further information.

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Corporate Structure
	The Wendy’s Company (“The Wendy’s Company” and, together with its subsidiaries, the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is the parent company of its 100% owned subsidiary holding company, Wendy’s Restaurants, LLC (“Wendy’s Restaurants”). Wendy’s Restaurants is the parent company of Wendy’s International, LLC (“Wendy’s”) and its subsidiaries (formerly known as Wendy’s International, Inc.). Wendy’s franchises and operates company-owned Wendy’s® quick-service restaurants specializing in hamburger sandwiches throughout North America (defined as the United States of America (“U.S.”) and Canada). Wendy’s also has franchised restaurants in 27 foreign countries and U.S. territories. At December 28, 2014, Wendy’s operated and franchised 957 and 5,558 restaurants, respectively.
	The Company manages and internally reports its business geographically. The operation and franchising of Wendy’s restaurants in North America comprises virtually all of our current operations and represents a single reportable segment. The revenues and operating results of Wendy’s restaurants outside of North America are not material.
	Principles of Consolidation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and include all of the Company’s subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The Company reports “Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests,” separately in our consolidated statements of operations.
	The Company participates in two national advertising funds established to collect and administer funds contributed for use in advertising and promotional programs for company-owned and franchised restaurants. The revenue, expenses and cash flows of such advertising funds are not included in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations or consolidated statements of cash flows because the contributions to these advertising funds are designated for specific purposes and the Company acts as an agent, in substance, with regard to these contributions. The assets and liabilities of these funds are reported as “Advertising funds restricted assets” and “Advertising funds restricted liabilities.”
	The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
	Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year presentation to conform to the current year presentation.
	During the year ended December 28, 2014, the Company began correctly recording rental income and lease expense on a gross basis versus net to properly reflect Wendy’s subleasing of restaurant facilities to franchisees for the operation of Wendy’s/Tim Hortons combo units in Canada. The Company’s previously reported rental income in “Franchise revenues” and lease expense in “Other operating expense, net” for the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012 were both understated by $7,544 and $7,724, respectively. The effect of the offsetting understatements on the consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012 was not material to franchise revenues or other operating expense, net and had no impact on operating profit or net income.
	Fiscal Year
	The Company’s fiscal reporting periods consist of 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Sunday closest to December 31 and are referred to herein as (1) “the year ended December 28, 2014” or “2014,” (2) “the year ended December 29, 2013” or “2013,” and (3) “the year ended December 30, 2012” or “2012,” all of which consisted of 52 weeks.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	All highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when acquired are considered cash equivalents. The Company’s cash and cash equivalents principally consist of cash in bank and money market mutual fund accounts and are primarily not in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured accounts.
	We believe that our vulnerability to risk concentrations in our cash equivalents is mitigated by (1) our policies restricting the eligibility, credit quality and concentration limits for our placements in cash equivalents and (2) insurance from the Securities Investor Protection Corporation of up to $500 per account, as well as supplemental private insurance coverage maintained by substantially all of our brokerage firms, to the extent our cash equivalents are held in brokerage accounts.
	Accounts and Notes Receivable
	Accounts and notes receivable consist primarily of royalties, rents and franchise fees due principally from franchisees and credit card receivables. The need for an allowance for doubtful accounts is reviewed on a specific identification basis based upon past due balances and the financial strength of the obligor.
	Inventories
	The Company’s inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined in accordance with the first-in, first-out method and consist primarily of restaurant food items and paper supplies.
	Properties and Depreciation and Amortization
	Properties are stated at cost, including internal costs of employees to the extent such employees are dedicated to specific restaurant construction projects, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization of properties is computed principally on the straight-line basis using the following estimated useful lives of the related major classes of properties: 3 to 20 years for office and restaurant equipment, 3 to 15 years for transportation equipment and 7 to 30 years for buildings and improvements. When the Company commits to a plan to cease using certain properties before the end of their estimated useful lives, depreciation expense is accelerated to reflect the use of the assets over their shortened useful lives. Capital leases and leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the terms of the respective leases, including periods covered by renewal options that the Company is reasonably assured of exercising.
	The Company reviews properties for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. If such review indicates an asset group may not be recoverable, an impairment loss is recognized for the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of an asset group to be held and used or over the fair value less cost to sell of an asset to be disposed. Asset groups are primarily comprised of our individual restaurant properties.
	The Company classifies assets as held for sale and ceases depreciation of the assets when there is a plan for disposal of the assets and those assets meet the held for sale criteria. Assets held for sale are included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets” in the consolidated balance sheets.
	Goodwill
	Goodwill, representing the excess of the cost of an acquired entity over the fair value of the acquired net assets, is not amortized. Goodwill associated with our company-owned restaurants is reduced as a result of restaurant dispositions based on the relative fair values and is included in the carrying value of the restaurant in determining the gain or loss on disposal. If a company-owned restaurant is sold within two years of being acquired from a franchisee, the goodwill associated with the acquisition is written off in its entirety. For goodwill impairment testing purposes, we include two reporting units comprised of our (1) North America company-owned and franchise restaurants and (2) international franchise restaurants. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset may be impaired.
	If the Company determines that impairment may exist, the amount of the impairment loss is measured as the excess, if any, of the carrying amount of the goodwill over its implied fair value. In determining the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill, the Company allocates the fair value of a reporting unit to all of the assets and liabilities of that unit as if the unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was the price paid to acquire the reporting unit. The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the amounts assigned to the assets and liabilities is the implied fair value of goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
	Our fair value estimates are subject to change as a result of many factors including, among others, any changes in our business plans, changing economic conditions and the competitive environment. Should actual cash flows and our future estimates vary adversely from those estimates we use, we may be required to recognize goodwill impairment charges in future years.
	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
	For impairment testing purposes, the long-lived asset group includes our company-owned restaurant assets and their definite-lived intangible assets, which include favorable leases and reacquired rights under franchise agreements. We review our long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. We assess the recoverability of long-lived assets by comparing the carrying amount of the asset group to future undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated by our individual company-owned restaurants. If the carrying amount of the long-lived asset group is not recoverable on an undiscounted cash flow basis, then impairment is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds its fair value and is included in “Impairment of long-lived assets.” Our restaurant impairment losses principally reflect impairment charges resulting from the deterioration in operating performance of certain company-owned restaurants.
	The Company records losses on remeasuring long-lived assets to fair value upon determination that the assets will be leased and/or subleased to franchisees in connection with the sale or anticipated sale of restaurants. Such losses related to sales or anticipated sales of restaurants not included in our system optimization initiative are recorded to “Impairment of long-lived assets.” Similar losses related to sales or anticipated sales of restaurants in connection with the Company’s announced system optimization initiative are recorded to “Facilities action (income) charges, net.” The fair value of the long-lived assets is based upon discounted cash flows of future anticipated lease and sublease income.
	Our fair value estimates are subject to change as a result of many factors including, among others, any changes in our business plans, changing economic conditions and the competitive environment. Should actual cash flows and our future estimates vary adversely from those estimates we used, we may be required to recognize additional impairment charges in future years.
	Other Intangible Assets
	Definite-lived intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis using the following estimated useful lives of the related classes of intangibles: for favorable leases, the terms of the respective leases, including periods covered by renewal options that the Company is reasonably assured of exercising; 5 years for computer software; 3 to 20 years for reacquired rights under franchise agreements; and 20 years for franchise agreements. Trademarks have an indefinite life and are not amortized.
	The Company reviews definite-lived intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the intangible asset may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment at least annually by comparing their carrying value to fair value; any excess of carrying value over fair value is recognized as an impairment loss. Our estimates in the determination of the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets include the anticipated future revenues of company-owned and franchised restaurants and the resulting cash flows.
	Investments
	The Company has a 50% share in a partnership in a Canadian restaurant real estate joint venture (“TimWen”) with a subsidiary of Restaurant Brands International Inc., a quick-service restaurant company that owns the Tim Hortons® brand. (Tim Hortons is a registered trademark of The TDL Marks Corporation.) The Company has significant influence over the investee. Such investment is accounted for using the equity method, under which our results of operations include our share of the income of the investee. Investments in limited partnerships and other non-current investments in which the Company does not have significant influence over the investees, which includes our indirect 18.5% interest in Arby’s Restaurant Group, Inc. (“Arby’s”), are recorded at cost with related realized gains and losses reported as income or loss in the period in which the securities are sold or otherwise disposed. Cash distributions and dividends received that are determined to be returns of capital are recorded as a reduction of the carrying value of our investments.
	The difference between the carrying value of our TimWen equity investment and the underlying equity in the historical net assets of the investee is accounted for as if the investee were a consolidated subsidiary. Accordingly, the carrying value difference is amortized over the estimated lives of the assets of the investee to which such difference would have been allocated if the equity investment were a consolidated subsidiary. To the extent the carrying value difference represents goodwill, it is not amortized.
	Derivative Instruments
	The Company enters into interest rate swap agreements to manage its exposure to changes in interest rates as well as to maintain an appropriate mix of fixed and variable rate debt. Floating to fixed interest rate swap agreements are accounted for as cash flow hedges. Changes in the fair value of our cash flow hedging instruments are recorded as an adjustment to “Accumulated other comprehensive loss” to the extent of the effectiveness of such hedging instruments and is subsequently reclassified into “Interest expense” in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. Fixed to floating interest rate swap agreements are accounted for as fair value hedges. Changes in the fair value of fair value hedging instruments are recorded as an adjustment to the underlying debt balance being hedged to the extent of the effectiveness of such hedging instruments. Any ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the designated hedging instruments is included in “Other income (expense), net.”
	Share-Based Compensation
	The Company has granted share-based compensation awards to certain employees under several equity plans. The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for an equity award, which include grants of employee stock options and restricted shares, based on the fair value of the award at the date of grant. Share-based compensation expense is recognized net of estimated forfeitures, determined based on historical experience. The Company recognizes share-based compensation expense over the requisite service period unless the awards are subject to performance conditions, in which case they recognize compensation expense over the requisite service period to the extent performance conditions are considered probable. The Company determines the grant date fair value of stock options using a Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model (the “Black-Scholes Model”). The grant date fair value of restricted share awards (“RSAs”), restricted share units (“RSUs”) and performance-based awards are determined using the average of the high and low trading prices of our common stock on the date of grant, unless the awards are subject to market conditions, in which case we use a Monte Carlo simulation model. The Monte Carlo simulation model utilizes multiple input variables to estimate the probability that market conditions will be achieved.
	Foreign Currency Translation
	Substantially all of the Company’s foreign operations are in Canada where the functional currency is the Canadian dollar. Financial statements of foreign subsidiaries are prepared in their functional currency and then translated into U.S. dollars. Assets and liabilities are translated at the exchange rate as of the balance sheet date and revenues, costs and expenses are translated at a monthly average exchange rate. Net gains or losses resulting from the translation adjustment are recorded to the “Foreign currency translation adjustment” component of “Accumulated other comprehensive loss.” Gains and losses arising from the impact of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on transactions in foreign currency are included in “General and administrative.”
	Income Taxes
	The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method. A deferred tax asset or liability is recognized whenever there are (1) future tax effects from temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and (2) operating loss, capital loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to the years in which those differences are expected to be recovered or settled.
	Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent the Company believes these assets will more likely than not be realized. In evaluating the realizability of deferred tax assets, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including the interaction and the timing of future reversals of existing temporary differences, projected future taxable income, recent operating results and tax-planning strategies. When considered necessary, a valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying amount of the deferred tax assets to their anticipated realizable value.
	The Company records uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two-step process whereby we first determine if it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. A tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is then measured for purposes of financial statement recognition as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon being effectively settled.
	Interest accrued for uncertain tax positions is charged to “Interest expense.” Penalties accrued for uncertain tax positions are charged to “General and administrative.”
	Restaurant Dispositions
	In connection with the sale of company-owned restaurants to franchisees, the Company typically enters into several agreements, in addition to an asset purchase agreement, with franchisees including franchise, development, relationship and lease agreements. See “Franchised Restaurants” in Item 1 herein, for further information regarding these agreements. The Company typically sells restaurants’ cash, inventory and equipment and retains ownership or the leasehold interest to the real estate to lease and/or sublease to the franchisee. The Company has determined that its restaurant dispositions usually represent multiple-element arrangements, and as such, the cash consideration received is allocated to the separate elements based on their relative selling price. Cash consideration generally includes up-front consideration for the sale of the restaurants, technical assistance fees and development fees and future cash consideration for royalties and lease payments. The Company considers the future lease payments in allocating the initial cash consideration received. The Company obtains third-party evidence to estimate the relative selling price of the stated rent under the lease and/or sublease agreements which is primarily based upon comparable market rents. Based on the Company’s review of the third-party evidence, the Company records favorable or unfavorable lease assets/liabilities with a corresponding offset to the gain or loss on the sale of the restaurants. The cash consideration per restaurant for technical assistance fees and development fees is consistent with the amounts stated in the related franchise agreements which are charged for separate standalone arrangements. Therefore, the Company recognizes the technical assistance and development fees when earned. Future royalty income is also recognized in revenue as earned. See “Revenue Recognition” below further information.
	Revenue Recognition
	“Sales” includes revenues recognized upon delivery of food to the customer at company-owned restaurants and bakery items to our franchisees and others. “Sales” excludes taxes collected from the Company’s customers.
	“Franchise revenues” includes royalties, franchise fees and rental income. Royalties from franchised restaurants are based on a percentage of net sales of the franchised restaurant and are recognized as earned. Initial franchise fees and development fees are recorded as deferred income when received and are recognized as revenue when a franchised restaurant is opened as all material services and conditions related to the franchise fee have been substantially performed upon the restaurant opening. Initial franchise fees received in connection with sales of company-owned restaurants to franchisees and renewal franchise fees are recognized as revenue when the license agreements are signed and the fee is paid since there are no material services and conditions related to the franchise fees. Franchise fee deposits are forfeited and recognized as revenue upon the termination of the related commitments to open new franchised restaurants. Rental income from properties owned and leased by the Company and leased or subleased to franchisees is recognized on a straight-line basis over the respective operating lease terms. Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts related to the leased and/or subleased properties are amortized to rental income on a straight-line basis over the remaining term of the leases. See “Leases” below for further information on rental income and favorable and unfavorable lease amounts.
	Cost of Sales
	Cost of sales includes food and paper, restaurant labor and occupancy, advertising and other operating costs.
	Vendor Incentives
	The Company receives incentives from certain vendors. These incentives are recognized as earned and are classified as a reduction of “Cost of sales.”
	Advertising Costs
	The Company incurs various advertising costs, including contributions to certain advertising cooperatives based upon a percentage of net sales by company-owned restaurants. All advertising costs are expensed as incurred, with the exception of media development costs that are expensed beginning in the month that the advertisement is first communicated, and are included in “Cost of sales.”
	Self-Insurance
	The Company is self-insured for most workers’ compensation losses and health care claims and purchases insurance for general liability and automotive liability losses, all subject to a $500 per occurrence retention or deductible limit. The Company provides for their estimated cost to settle both known claims and claims incurred but not yet reported. Liabilities associated with these claims are estimated, in part, by considering the frequency and severity of historical claims, both specific to us, as well as industry-wide loss experience and other actuarial assumptions. We determine our insurance obligations with the assistance of actuarial firms. Since there are many estimates and assumptions involved in recording insurance liabilities and in the case of workers’ compensation a significant period of time elapses before the ultimate resolution of claims, differences between actual future events and prior estimates and assumptions could result in adjustments to these liabilities.
	Leases
	The Company operates restaurants that are located on sites owned by us and sites leased by us from third parties. In addition, the Company owns and leases sites from third parties, which it leases and/or subleases to franchisees. At inception, each lease or sublease is evaluated to determine whether the lease will be accounted for as an operating or capital lease, including the determination of direct financing leases based on its terms. When determining the lease term, we include option periods for which failure to renew the lease imposes a significant economic detriment. For properties used to operate company-owned restaurants, the primary economic detriment relates to the existence of unamortized leasehold improvements which might be impaired if we choose not to exercise the available renewal options. The lease term for properties leased or subleased to franchisees, is determined based upon the economic detriment to the franchisee and includes consideration of the length of the franchise agreement, historical performance of the restaurant and the existence of bargain renewal options.
	For operating leases, minimum lease payments or receipts, including minimum scheduled rent increases, are recognized as rent expense or income, as applicable, on a straight line basis (“Straight-Line Rent”) over the applicable lease terms. Lease terms are generally initially between 15 and 20 years and, in most cases, provide for rent escalations and renewal options. The term used for Straight-Line Rent is calculated initially from the date of possession of the leased premises through the expected lease termination date. We recognize rent expense or income, as applicable, from the possession date to the restaurant opening date. There is a period under certain lease agreements referred to as a rent holiday (“Rent Holiday”) that generally begins on the possession date and ends on the rent commencement date. During a Rent Holiday, no cash rent payments are typically due under the terms of the lease; however, expense or income, as applicable, is recorded for that period on a straight-line basis.
For leases that contain rent escalations, we record the rent payable or receivable, as applicable, during the lease term, as determined above, on the straight-line basis over the term of the lease (including the Rent Holiday beginning upon possession of the premises), and record the excess of the Straight-Line Rent over the minimum rents paid or received as a deferred lease liability or asset which is included in “Other liabilities” or “Other assets,” as applicable. Certain leases contain provisions, referred to as contingent rent (“Contingent Rent”), that require additional rental payments based upon restaurant sales volume. Contingent Rent is recognized each period as the liability is incurred or the asset is earned.
For direct financing leases, the Company records its investment in properties leased to franchisees on a net basis, which is comprised of its gross investment less unearned income. The current and long-term portions of our net investment in direct financing leases are included in “Accounts and notes receivable” and “Other assets,” respectively. Unearned income is recognized as interest income over the lease term and is included in “Interest expense.”
Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts are recorded as components of “Other intangible assets” and “Other liabilities,” respectively. Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the leases. When the expected term of a lease is determined to be shorter than the original amortization period, the favorable or unfavorable lease balance associated with the lease is adjusted to reflect the revised lease term.
Lease expense, rental income and favorable and unfavorable lease amortization is recognized in the consolidated statements of operations based on the nature of the underlying lease. Amounts related to leases for company-owned restaurants are recorded to “Cost of sales.” Lease expense, including any related amortization, for leased properties that are subsequently subleased to franchisees is recorded to “Other operating expense, net.” Rental income, including any related amortization, for owned and subleased properties to franchisees is recorded to “Franchise revenues.” Amounts related to leases for corporate offices and equipment are recorded to “General and administrative.”
Management makes certain estimates and assumptions regarding each new lease and sublease agreement, renewal and amendment, including, but not limited to, property values, market rents, property lives, discount rates and probable term, all of which can impact (1) the classification and accounting for a lease or sublease as operating or capital, including direct financing, (2) the Rent Holiday and escalations in payment that are taken into consideration when calculating Straight-Line Rent, (3) the term over which leasehold improvements for each restaurant are amortized and (4) the values and lives of favorable and unfavorable leases. The amount of depreciation and amortization, interest and rent expense and income reported would vary if different estimates and assumptions were used.
Concentration of Risk
Wendy’s had no customers which accounted for 10% or more of consolidated revenues in 2014, 2013 or 2012. As of December 28, 2014, Wendy’s had one main in-line distributor of food, packaging and beverage products, excluding produce and breads, that serviced approximately 57% of its company-owned and franchised restaurants and three additional in-line distributors that, in the aggregate, serviced approximately 36% of its company-owned and franchised restaurants. We believe that our vulnerability to risk concentrations related to significant vendors and sources of its raw materials is mitigated as we believe that there are other vendors who would be able to service our requirements. However, if a disruption of service from any of our main in-line distributors was to occur, we could experience short-term increases in our costs while distribution channels were adjusted.
Wendy’s restaurants are principally located throughout the U.S. and to a lesser extent, in 28 foreign countries and U.S. territories with the largest number in Canada. Wendy’s restaurants are located in 50 states and the District of Columbia, with the largest number in Florida, Ohio, Texas, Georgia, California, Michigan, Pennsylvania and North Carolina. Because our restaurant operations are generally located throughout the U.S. and to a much lesser extent, Canada and other foreign countries and U. S. territories, we believe the risk of geographic concentration is not significant. We could be adversely affected by changing consumer preferences resulting from concerns over nutritional or safety aspects of beef, poultry, french fries or other products we sell or the effects of food safety events or disease outbreaks. Our exposure to foreign exchange risk is primarily related to fluctuations in the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar for our Canadian operations. However, our exposure to Canadian dollar foreign currency risk is mitigated by the fact that less than 10% of Wendy’s restaurants are in Canada.
New Accounting Standards
In June 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued an amendment to clarify that a performance target that affects vesting and which could be achieved after the requisite service period should be treated as a performance condition and therefore should not be reflected in estimating the grant-date fair value of the award. The Company does not expect the amendment, which is effective commencing with our 2016 fiscal year, to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued a new standard on revenue recognition. The new standard outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The amendment is effective commencing with our 2017 fiscal year and requires enhanced disclosures. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.
In April 2014, the FASB issued an amendment that modifies the criteria for reporting a discontinued operation. The amendment changes the definition of a discontinued operation including the implementation guidance and requires expanded disclosures. The amendment is effective, prospectively, commencing with our 2015 fiscal year. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.
New Accounting Standards Adopted
In July 2013, the FASB issued an amendment that requires companies to present unrecognized tax benefits as a reduction to deferred tax assets when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss or a tax credit carryforward exists, with limited exceptions. The Company adopted this amendment during the first quarter of 2014. See Note 12 for more information.

Facilities_Action_Income_Charg

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure	Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net
		Year Ended
		2014			2013			2012
	System optimization initiative	$	(42,026	)	$	4,901		$	—
	G&A realignment	12,926			—			—
	Facilities relocation and other transition costs	—			4,574			28,990
	Breakfast discontinuation	—			1,118			10,569
	Arby’s transaction related costs	—			263			1,472
		$	(29,100	)	$	10,856		$	41,031
	System Optimization Initiative
	In July 2013, the Company announced a system optimization initiative, as part of its brand transformation, which included a plan to sell approximately 425 U.S. company-owned restaurants to franchisees. The Company completed this plan during the first quarter of 2014 with the sale of 174 U.S. company-owned restaurants to franchisees, bringing the aggregate total to 418 during 2013 and 2014. This initiative also included the consolidation of regional and divisional territories which was substantially completed by the end of the second quarter of 2014.
	In August 2014, the Company announced a plan to sell all of its company-owned restaurants in Canada to franchisees as part of its ongoing system optimization initiative, which it now anticipates completing by the end of the second quarter of 2015. During the second half of 2014, the Company completed the sale of 29 Canadian restaurants and classified its remaining Canadian restaurants’ assets that will be sold as held for sale.
	As a result of the system optimization initiative, the Company has recorded losses on remeasuring long-lived assets to fair value upon determination that the assets will be leased and/or subleased to franchisees in connection with the sale or anticipated sale of restaurants (“System Optimization Remeasurement”). In addition, the Company has recognized costs related to the system optimization initiative which are illustrated in the table below. These costs have been substantially offset by net gains recognized on sales of restaurants, all of which were recorded to “Facilities action (income) charges, net” in our consolidated statements of operations.
	The Company anticipates recognizing additional system optimization related costs through the second quarter of 2015 of approximately $1,000 which include severance and related employee costs and professional fees. The Company is unable to estimate any gains or losses or System Optimization Remeasurement resulting from future sales of its Canadian restaurants. The Company plans to retain its ownership in TimWen. For additional information on the joint venture see Note 6.
	The following is a summary of the activity recorded under our system optimization initiative:
		Year Ended						Total Incurred Since Inception
		2014			2013
	Gain on sales of restaurants, net	$	(69,631	)	$	(46,667	)	$	(116,298	)
	System Optimization Remeasurement (a)	8,628			20,506			29,134
	Accelerated depreciation and amortization (b)	507			16,907			17,414
	Severance and related employee costs	7,608			9,650			17,258
	Professional fees	3,424			2,389			5,813
	Share-based compensation (c)	3,760			1,253			5,013
	Other	3,678			863			4,541
	Total system optimization initiative	$	(42,026	)	$	4,901		$	(37,125	)
	_______________
	(a)	Includes remeasurement of land, buildings, leasehold improvements and favorable lease assets at all company-owned restaurants included in our system optimization initiative. See Note 11 for more information on non-recurring fair value measurements.
	(b)	Primarily includes accelerated amortization of previously acquired franchise rights related to company-owned restaurants in territories that were sold in connection with our system optimization initiative.
	(c)	Represents incremental share-based compensation resulting from the modification of stock options and performance-based awards in connection with the termination of employees under our system optimization initiative.
	Gain on Sales of Restaurants, Net
		Year Ended
		2014			2013
	Number of restaurants sold to franchisees	203			244
	Proceeds from sales of restaurants	$	107,833		$	130,154
	Net assets sold (a)	(46,874		)	(60,895		)
	Goodwill related to sales of restaurants	(14,688		)	(20,578		)
	Net favorable (unfavorable) lease assets (liabilities) (b)	28,105			(57		)
	Other (c)	(3,465		)	(1,957		)
		70,911			46,667
	Post-closing adjustments on sales of restaurants	(1,280		)	—
	Gain on sales of restaurants, net	$	69,631		$	46,667
	_______________
	(a)	Net assets sold consisted primarily of cash, inventory and equipment.
	(b)	During 2014 and 2013, the Company recorded favorable lease assets of $53,750 and $37,749, respectively, and unfavorable lease liabilities of $25,645 and $37,806, respectively, as a result of leasing and/or subleasing land, buildings, and/or leasehold improvements to franchisees, in connection with sales of restaurants.
	(c)	2014 includes a deferred gain of $1,995 on the sale of eight Canadian restaurants to a franchisee, as a result of Wendy’s providing a guarantee to a lender on behalf of the franchisee. This deferred gain is included in “Other liabilities.” See Note 20 for further information.
	The tables below present a rollforward of our accrual for our system optimization initiative, which is included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities.”
			Balance			Charges			Payments			Balance
			29-Dec-13									28-Dec-14
	Severance and related employee costs		$	7,051		$	7,608		$	(12,424	)	$	2,235
	Professional fees		137			3,424			(3,415		)	146
	Other		260			3,678			(3,515		)	423
			$	7,448		$	14,710		$	(19,354	)	$	2,804
			Balance			Charges			Payments			Balance
			30-Dec-12									29-Dec-13
	Severance and related employee costs		$	—		$	9,650		$	(2,599	)	$	7,051
	Professional fees		—			2,389			(2,252		)	137
	Other		—			863			(603		)	260
			$	—		$	12,902		$	(5,454	)	$	7,448
	Assets Held for Sale
		Year End
		2014			2013
	Number of restaurants classified as held for sale	102			181
	Net assets held for sale	$	24,416		$	29,630
	Subsequent to December 28, 2014, the Company completed the sale of certain assets used in the operation of nine Wendy’s Canadian restaurants for cash proceeds of approximately $3,000, subject to customary purchase price adjustments.
Net assets held for sale consist primarily of cash, inventory, equipment and an estimate of allocable goodwill and are included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets” as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013.
Subsequent Events
In February 2015, the Company announced plans to sell approximately 500 additional restaurants to franchisees and reduce its ongoing company-owned restaurant ownership to approximately 5% of the total system by the middle of 2016, as part of its ongoing system optimization initiative. As a result, the Company anticipates recognizing additional System Optimization Remeasurement. However, the Company cannot estimate such charges or any gains or losses resulting from future sales of its restaurants.
G&A Realignment
As announced in November 2014, the Company initiated a plan to reduce its general and administrative expenses. The plan includes a realignment and reinvestment of resources to focus primarily on accelerated restaurant development and consumer-facing restaurant technology to drive long-term growth. The Company expects to achieve the majority of the expense reductions through the realignment of its U.S. field operations and savings at its Restaurant Support Center in Dublin, Ohio. As a result, the Company recorded a $12,926 charge to “Facilities action (income) charges, net” during the fourth quarter of 2014, which primarily included severance and related employee costs. The Company expects to incur additional costs aggregating approximately $11,500 to $13,500 during the first half of 2015, comprised of severance and related employee costs of $2,500, recruitment and relocation costs of $5,000 for the reinvestment in resources to drive long-term growth and share-based compensation of $4,000 to $6,000. The Company anticipates this initiative will be substantially completed by the end of the second quarter of 2015.
The following is a summary of the activity recorded under our G&A realignment plan:
		Year Ended
		2014
Severance and related employee costs		$	11,917
Recruitment and relocation costs		209
Other		88
		12,214
Share-based compensation (a)		712
Total G&A realignment		$	12,926
_______________
(a)	Represents incremental share-based compensation resulting from the modification of stock options and performance-based awards in connection with the termination of employees under our G&A realignment plan.
The table below presents a rollforward of our accrual for our G&A realignment plan, which is included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities.”
		Balance			Charges			Payments			Balance
		29-Dec-13									December 28,
											2014
Severance and related employee costs		$	—		$	11,917		$	(308	)	$	11,609
Recruitment and relocation costs		—			209			(60		)	149
Other		—			88			(83		)	5
		$	—		$	12,214		$	(451	)	$	11,763
Facilities Relocation and Other Transition Costs
As announced in December 2011, we commenced the relocation of the Company’s Atlanta restaurant support center to Ohio, which was substantially completed during 2012. The Company did not incur any expenses during 2014 and does not expect to incur additional costs related to the relocation.
		Year Ended						Total Incurred Since Inception
		2013			2012
Severance, retention and other payroll costs		$	1,856		$	9,952		$	17,153
Relocation costs		1,898			5,222			7,120
Atlanta facility closure costs		337			4,541			4,878
Consulting and professional fees		128			4,928			5,056
Other		355			2,126			2,495
		4,574			26,769			36,702
Accelerated depreciation expense		—			1,921			2,118
Share-based compensation		—			300			271
Total		$	4,574		$	28,990		$	39,091
As of December 28, 2014, our accruals for facilities relocation and other transition costs, which are included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” and “Other liabilities,” totaled $2,259 and related to Atlanta facility closure costs.
The table below presents a rollforward of our accruals for facilities relocation and other transition costs during 2013, which were included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” and “Other liabilities.”
		Balance			Charges			Payments			Balance
		30-Dec-12									29-Dec-13
Severance, retention and other payroll costs		$	4,121		$	1,856		$	(5,038	)	$	939
Relocation costs		500			1,898			(2,398		)	—
Atlanta facility closure costs		4,170			337			(1,733		)	2,774
Consulting and professional fees		80			128			(208		)	—
Other		9			355			(364		)	—
		$	8,880		$	4,574		$	(9,741	)	$	3,713
Breakfast Discontinuation
During 2013 and 2012, the Company reflected costs totaling $1,118 and $10,569, respectively, resulting from the discontinuation of the breakfast daypart at certain restaurants. Costs during 2013 primarily consisted of the remaining carrying value of breakfast related equipment no longer being used. Costs during 2012 consisted primarily of (1) the remaining net carrying value of $5,277 for certain breakfast equipment and (2) amounts advanced to franchisees of $3,544 for breakfast equipment which will not be reimbursed.
Arby’s Transaction Related Costs
As a result of the sale of Arby’s in July 2011, we expensed costs related to the Arby’s transaction during 2013 and 2012 of $263 and $1,472, respectively, and $41,919 since inception. The Company did not incur any expenses during 2014 and does not expect to incur additional costs related to the transaction. Costs paid during 2013 totaled $959 and were primarily for severance, retention and other payroll costs. As of December 29, 2013, no accrual remained.

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions

Acquisitions and Dispositions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosure	Acquisitions and Dispositions
	Acquisitions
	During the year ended December 28, 2014, Wendy’s acquired 45 franchised restaurants for total net cash consideration of $53,954. The total consideration was allocated to net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired, primarily properties of $19,857 and franchise rights of $6,650, based on their estimated fair values. Of these restaurants, 18 were acquired in the fourth quarter and immediately sold to a franchisee. As a result, no intangible assets or goodwill were recognized on this acquisition. The Company retained the land, building and leasehold improvements, which have been leased to the franchisee. Three of the franchised restaurants were acquired during the second quarter of 2014 and the fair value of the assets acquired exceeded the total consideration, resulting in income of $349 after post-closing adjustments which is included in “Other operating expense, net.” The remaining franchised restaurants acquired during 2014 resulted in an excess of consideration over the estimated fair value of assets acquired of $11,455 which was recognized as goodwill.
	During the year ended December 29, 2013, Wendy’s acquired one franchised restaurant; such transaction was not significant. See Note 6 for discussion of the step-acquisition of our investment in a joint venture in Japan.
	On June 11, 2012, Wendy’s acquired 30 franchised restaurants in the Austin, Texas area from Pisces Foods, L.P. (“Pisces”) and Near Holdings, L.P. (the “Pisces Acquisition”). The purchase price was $18,915 in cash, including closing adjustments. Wendy’s also agreed to lease the real estate, buildings and improvements related to 23 of the acquired restaurants from Pisces which were considered part of the purchase transaction and to assume ground leases for five of the acquired restaurants and building leases for two of the acquired restaurants. Wendy’s did not incur any material acquisition-related costs associated with the Pisces Acquisition.
	The operating results of the 30 franchised restaurants acquired were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning on the acquisition date through the subsequent sale during the fourth quarter of 2013 to a franchisee in connection with our system optimization initiative. Such results were not material to our consolidated financial statements.
	The table below presents the allocation of the total purchase price, including closing adjustments, to the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date.
	Total purchase price paid in cash	$	18,915
	Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
	Cash	55
	Inventories	149
	Properties	12,485
	Deferred taxes and other assets	1,773
	Acquired territory rights (a)	18,390
	Favorable ground leases	222
	Capitalized lease obligations	(14,394		)
	Deferred vendor incentives	(382		)
	Unfavorable leases	(992		)
	Other liabilities	(952		)
	Total identifiable net assets	16,354
	Goodwill (b)	$	2,561
	_______________
	(a)	The acquired territory rights had a weighted average amortization period of 13 years. Due to the subsequent sale of this territory, we accelerated the amortization through the date of sale.
	(b)	This goodwill was not deductible or amortizable for income tax purposes. In addition, the goodwill was disposed of as a result of the subsequent sale of this territory.
	The fair values of the identifiable assets acquired were determined using one of the following valuation approaches: market, income and cost. The selection of a particular method for a given asset depended on the reliability of available data and the nature of the asset.
	On July 13, 2012, Wendy’s acquired 24 franchised restaurants in the Albuquerque, New Mexico area from Double Cheese Corporation and Double Cheese Realty Corporation (“Double Cheese”). The purchase price was $19,181 in cash, including closing adjustments. Wendy’s also agreed to lease the real estate, buildings and improvements related to 12 of the acquired restaurants from Double Cheese which were considered part of the purchase transaction. Wendy’s did not incur any material acquisition-related costs with this acquisition.
	The operating results of the 24 franchised restaurants acquired were included in our consolidated financial statements beginning on the acquisition date through the subsequent sale during the first quarter of 2014 to a franchisee in connection with our system optimization initiative. Such results were not material to our consolidated financial statements.
	The table below presents the allocation of the total purchase price to the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date.
	Total purchase price paid in cash	$	19,181
	Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
	Cash	27
	Inventories	163
	Properties	12,753
	Deferred taxes and other assets	190
	Acquired territory rights (a)	2,640
	Favorable ground leases	1,147
	Capitalized lease obligations	(948		)
	Deferred vendor incentives	(248		)
	Unfavorable leases	(531		)
	Other liabilities	(727		)
	Total identifiable net assets	14,466
	Goodwill (b)	$	4,715
	_______________
	(a)	The acquired territory rights had a weighted average amortization period of 13 years. Due to the sale of this territory, we accelerated the amortization through the date of sale.
	(b)	This goodwill was partially amortizable for income tax purposes. In addition, the goodwill was disposed of as a result of the subsequent sale of this territory.
	The fair values of the identifiable assets acquired were determined using one of the following valuation approaches: market, income and cost. The selection of a particular method for a given asset depended on the reliability of available data and the nature of the asset.
	During the year ended December 30, 2012, Wendy’s also acquired two franchised restaurants along with certain other equipment and franchise rights. The total net cash consideration for this acquisition was $2,594. The total consideration was allocated to net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired, primarily properties, and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values, with the excess of $485 recognized as goodwill.
	Dispositions
	During the year ended December 28, 2014, Wendy’s received cash proceeds of $53,553 from dispositions, which were not included in the system optimization initiative, consisting of (1) $36,238 from the sale of 52 company-owned restaurants to franchisees, including the 18 restaurants acquired in the fourth quarter mentioned above, (2) $8,699 primarily from the sale of surplus properties and (3) $8,616 from the sale of company-owned aircraft. These sales resulted in a net gain of $21,948 which is included in “Other operating expense, net,” and a reduction to goodwill of $3,344 related to the sale of company-owned restaurants. In connection with certain sales of the company-owned restaurants, we received notes receivable of $3,934 from franchisees. As a result we have deferred the gains on such sales totaling $5,116, which will be recognized when the notes are repaid. The deferred gains on these dispositions are included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities.”
	During the year ended December 29, 2013, Wendy’s received cash proceeds of $18,958 from dispositions not included in the system optimization initiative, consisting of (1) $10,305 primarily from the sale of surplus properties and (2) $8,653 resulting from franchisees exercising options to purchase previously leased properties. These sales resulted in a net gain of $4,705 which is included in “Other operating expense, net.”
	During the year ended December 30, 2012, Wendy’s received cash proceeds of $21,023 from dispositions, consisting of (1) $14,059 from the sale of 30 company-owned restaurants to franchisees, (2) $1,874 from the sale of a restaurant to an unrelated third party, (3) $3,550 resulting from franchisees exercising options to purchase previously subleased properties, (4) $941 related to the sale of surplus properties and (5) $599 related to other dispositions. These sales resulted in a net loss of $22.
	See Note 2 for discussion of restaurant dispositions in connection with our system optimization initiative.

Income_Loss_Per_Share

Income (Loss) Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income (Loss) Per Share	Income (Loss) Per Share
	Basic income (loss) per share for 2014, 2013 and 2012 was computed by dividing income (loss) amounts attributable to The Wendy’s Company by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Income (loss) amounts attributable to The Wendy’s Company used to calculate basic and diluted income (loss) per share were as follows:
		Year Ended
		2014			2013			2012
	Amounts attributable to The Wendy’s Company:
	Income from continuing operations	$	121,434		$	45,753		$	5,574
	Net (loss) income from discontinued operations	—			(266		)	1,509
	Net income	$	121,434		$	45,487		$	7,083
	The weighted average number of shares used to calculate basic and diluted income (loss) per share were as follows:
		Year Ended
		2014		2013			2012
	Common stock:
	Weighted average basic shares outstanding	370,160		392,585			390,275
	Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted shares	6,022		6,095			1,865
	Weighted average diluted shares outstanding	376,182		398,680			392,140
	Diluted income per share was computed by dividing income attributable to The Wendy’s Company by the weighted average number of basic shares outstanding plus the potential common share effect of dilutive stock options and restricted shares. For 2014, 2013 and 2012, we excluded 4,946, 10,823 and 23,406, respectively, of potential common shares from our diluted income per share calculation as they would have had anti-dilutive effects.

Cash_and_Receivables

Cash and Receivables	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Cash and Receivables [Abstract]
Cash and Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]	Cash and Receivables
			Year End
			2014			2013
	Cash and cash equivalents
	Cash		$	205,826		$	174,278
	Cash equivalents		61,450			405,874
			$	267,276		$	580,152
	Restricted cash equivalents
	Current (a)
	Collateral supporting letters of credit		$	16,843		$	18,593
	Trust for termination costs for former Wendy’s executives		168			168
	Other		160			155
			$	17,171		$	18,916
	Non-current (b)
	Trust for termination costs for former Wendy’s executives		$	2,068		$	2,969
	_______________
	(a)	Included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets.”
	(b)	Included in “Other assets.”
			Year End
			2014			2013
	Accounts and Notes Receivable
	Current
	Accounts receivable:
	Franchisees		$	51,705		$	54,628
	Other		19,970			10,952
			71,675			65,580
	Notes receivable from franchisees (a) (b)		4,171			864
			75,846			66,444
	Allowance for doubtful accounts		(2,488		)	(3,559		)
			$	73,358		$	62,885
	Non-Current (c)
	Notes receivable from franchisees (a)		$	4,940		$	5,568
	Allowance for doubtful accounts		(250		)	(275		)
			$	4,690		$	5,293
	_______________
	(a)	Includes $3,520 and $414 of notes receivable from franchisees received in connection with the sale of company-owned restaurants, which are included in current and non-current notes receivable, respectively, as of December 28, 2014. See Note 3 for further information.
	Also, includes $266 and $2,179 of notes receivable from a franchisee in connection with the termination of our investment in a joint venture in Japan, which are included in current and non-current notes receivable, respectively, as of December 28, 2014 and $2,997 which was included in non-current notes receivable as of December 29, 2013. See Note 6 for further information.
	(b)	Includes the current portion of direct financing lease receivables of $193 and $226 as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively. See Note 19 for further information.
	(c)	Included in “Other assets.”
	The following is an analysis of the allowance for doubtful accounts:
			Year End
			2014			2013			2012
	Balance at beginning of year:
	Current		$	3,559		$	6,321		$	4,053
	Non-current		275			2,881			963
	Provision for doubtful accounts:
	Franchisees and other		(1,004		)	(574		)	670
	Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries		(92		)	(4,794		)	(28		)
	Breakfast notes receivable fully reserved (see Note 2)		—			—			3,544
	Balance at end of year:
	Current		2,488			3,559			6,321
	Non-current		250			275			2,881
	Total		$	2,738		$	3,834		$	9,202

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Investments [Abstract]
Investments	Investments
	The following is a summary of the carrying value of our investments:
		Year End
		2014				2013
	Equity investment in TimWen	$	69,790			$	79,810
	Cost investments	4,264				3,387
		$	74,054			$	83,197
	Investment in TimWen
	Wendy’s is a partner in TimWen and our 50% share of the joint venture is accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Our equity in earnings from TimWen is included in “Other operating expense, net.” The carrying value of our investment in TimWen exceeded our interest in the underlying equity of the joint venture by $41,213 and $47,476 as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively, primarily due to purchase price adjustments from the Wendy’s merger.
	Presented below is activity related to our portion of TimWen included in our consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of operations as of and for the years ended December 28, 2014, December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012.
			Year Ended
			2014				2013			2012
	Balance at beginning of period		$	79,810			$	89,370		$	91,742
	Equity in earnings for the period		12,802				13,793			13,680
	Amortization of purchase price adjustments (a)		(2,626		)		(2,981		)	(3,129		)
			10,176				10,812			10,551
	Distributions received		(13,896		)		(14,116		)	(15,274		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustment included in		(6,300		)		(6,256		)	2,351
	“Other comprehensive (loss) income, net”
	Balance at end of period		$	69,790			$	79,810		$	89,370
	_______________
	(a)	Based upon an average original aggregate life of 21 years.
	Presented below is a summary of the financial information of TimWen, including the balance sheets as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013 and certain income statement information for the years ended December 28, 2014, December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012. The summary balance sheet financial information does not distinguish between current and long-term assets and liabilities.
			Year End
			2014				2013
	Balance sheet information:
	Properties		$	56,952			$	64,520
	Cash and cash equivalents		3,588				3,339
	Accounts receivable		2,663				2,924
	Other		2,105				2,268
			$	65,308			$	73,051
	Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		$	1,995			$	1,127
	Other liabilities		6,158				7,256
	Partners’ equity		57,155				64,668
			$	65,308			$	73,051
			Year Ended
			2014				2013			2012
	Income statement information:
	Revenues		$	36,604			$	38,751		$	39,702
	Income before income taxes and net income		25,604				27,586			27,377
	Joint Venture in Japan
	A wholly-owned subsidiary of Wendy’s entered into a joint venture for the operation of Wendy’s restaurants in Japan (the “Japan JV”) with Ernest M. Higa and Higa Industries, Ltd., a corporation organized under the laws of Japan (collectively, the “Higa Partners”) during the second quarter of 2011. Through the first quarter of 2013 as further described below, our 49% share of the Japan JV was accounted for as an equity method investment. Our share of the Japan JV’s net losses of $1,090 and $1,827 during the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, respectively, are included in “Other operating expense, net” in our consolidated statements of operations.
	In January 2013, Wendy’s and the Higa Partners agreed to fund future anticipated cash requirements of the Japan JV up to a maximum amount per partner. In conjunction with the first contributions in April 2013 of $1,000 and $219 by Wendy’s and the Higa Partners, respectively, the partners executed an amendment to the original joint venture agreement which included revised rights and obligations of the partners and changes to the ownership and profit distribution percentages. As a result of the changes in the ownership rights and obligations of the partners in April 2013, Wendy’s consolidated the Japan JV beginning in the second quarter of 2013. Beginning in the second quarter of 2013, we reported the Japan JV’s results of operations in the appropriate line items in our consolidated statements of operations and the net loss attributable to the Higa Partners’ ownership percentage in “Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests.” The consolidation of the Japan JV’s three restaurants did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. In August 2013, additional contributions of $1,000 and $219 were made by Wendy’s and the Higa Partners, respectively.
	In December 2013, Wendy’s and the Higa Partners agreed to terminate Wendy’s investment in the joint venture and repay their respective portions of the Japan JV’s outstanding financing debt and liabilities related to restaurant closure costs (the “Obligations”). In connection with that agreement, Wendy’s (1) made a contribution to the Japan JV of $2,800 to pay the Obligations attributable to Wendy’s interest and (2) loaned $2,800 to the Japan JV to pay the Obligations attributable to the Higa Partners interest. Wendy’s also loaned $197 to the Japan JV to help support the future working capital needs of that entity. On December 27, 2013, Wendy’s transferred its interest in the Japan JV to Higa Industries, Ltd. for nominal consideration, terminating the joint venture, and establishing the Japan JV as a wholly-owned entity of the Higa Partners (“Wendy’s Japan”). Wendy’s Japan and the Higa Partners issued a promissory note to Wendy’s evidencing the commitment to repay both amounts described above in full by December 27, 2018. We have included our capital contributions totaling $4,800, net of cash acquired of $188, for the year ended December 29, 2013 in “Acquisitions” in our consolidated statement of cash flows. Therefore, Wendy’s deconsolidated the Japan JV and recognized a loss of $1,658, which was included in “Other operating expense, net” in our consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 29, 2013.
	Certain of the Obligations were supported by guarantees by Wendy’s and the Higa Partners, and such guarantees were subject to a cross-indemnification arrangement between Wendy’s and the Higa Partners. With the repayment of the Japan JV’s financing debt, the applicable guarantees were also terminated, and both Wendy’s and the Higa Partners terminated the cross-indemnification arrangement related thereto. As a result, as of December 29, 2013, Wendy’s had no remaining funding requirements for, or exposure under guarantees to lenders to, the Japan JV.
	Indirect Investment in Arby’s
	In connection with the sale of Arby’s, Wendy’s Restaurants obtained an 18.5% equity interest in ARG Holding Corporation (through which Wendy’s Restaurants indirectly retained an 18.5% interest in Arby’s) with a fair value of $19,000. See Note 17 for more information on the sale of Arby’s. We account for our interest in Arby’s as a cost method investment. During 2013, we received a dividend of $40,145 from our investment in Arby’s, of which $21,145 was recognized in “Investment income, net,” with the remainder recorded as a reduction to the carrying value of our investment in Arby’s. During 2012, we received a dividend of $4,625 from our investment in Arby’s, which was included in “Investment income, net.”
	Sale of Investment in Jurlique International Pty Ltd.
	On February 2, 2012, Jurl Holdings, LLC (“Jurl”), a 99.7% owned subsidiary completed the sale of our investment in Jurlique International Pty Ltd. (“Jurlique”), an Australian manufacturer of skin care products, for which we received proceeds of $27,287, net of the amount held in escrow. In connection with the anticipated proceeds of the sale and in order to protect ourselves from a decrease in the Australian dollar through the closing date, we entered into a foreign currency related derivative transaction for an equivalent notional amount in U.S. dollars of the expected proceeds of A$28,500. During the year ended December 30, 2012, we recorded a gain on sale of this investment of $27,407, which included a loss of $2,913 on the settlement of the derivative transaction discussed above. The gain was included in “Investment income, net” in our consolidated statements of operations. During the year ended December 29, 2013, we collected $1,166 of the escrow. We also determined that $799 of the remaining escrow would not be received and recorded the reduction of our escrow receivable to “Investment income, net.” During the year ended December 28, 2014, we received a final escrow payment of $1,154 resulting in a gain of $199 which was recognized in “Investment income, net.”
	We have reflected net income attributable to noncontrolling interests of $2,384, net of an income tax benefit of $1,283, for the year ended December 30, 2012 in connection with the equity and profit interests discussed below. As a result of this sale and distributions to the minority shareholders, there are no remaining noncontrolling interests in this consolidated subsidiary.
	Prior to 2009 when our predecessor entity was a diversified company active in investments, we had provided our Chairman, who was also our then Chief Executive Officer, and our Vice Chairman, who was our then President and Chief Operating Officer (the “Former Executives”), and certain other former employees, equity and profit interests in Jurl. In connection with the gain on sale of Jurlique, we distributed, based on the related agreement, approximately $3,667 to Jurl’s minority shareholders, including approximately $2,296 to the Former Executives.

Properties_Notes

Properties (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]	Properties
		Year End
		2014			2013
	Owned:
	Land	$	384,148		$	384,847
	Buildings and improvements	505,218			454,805
	Office, restaurant and transportation equipment	428,469			389,161
	Leasehold improvements	365,441			374,586
	Leased:
	Capital leases (a)	44,604			36,126
		1,727,880			1,639,525
	Accumulated depreciation and amortization (b)	(456,642		)	(474,038		)
		$	1,271,238		$	1,165,487
	_______________
	(a)	These assets principally include buildings and improvements.
	(b)	Includes $13,151 and $14,911 of accumulated amortization related to capital leases at December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively.
	In connection with the reimaging of restaurants as part of our Image Activation program, we recorded $19,353 and $38,190 of accelerated depreciation and amortization during the years ended December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively, on certain long-lived assets to reflect their use over shortened estimated useful lives.

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangible_

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	Goodwill activity for 2014 and 2013 was as follows:
			Year End
			2014				2013
	Balance at beginning of year		$	842,544			$	876,201
	Restaurant dispositions (a)		(27,571		)		(20,578		)
	Restaurant acquisitions		11,455				—
	Impairment		—				(9,397		)
	Currency translation adjustment and other, net		(3,866		)		(3,682		)
	Balance at end of year		$	822,562			$	842,544
	_______________
	(a)	During 2014, in connection with the Company’s plan to sell all of its company-owned restaurants in Canada to franchisees as part of its ongoing system optimization initiative, goodwill of $11,574 was reclassified to assets held for sale, of which $2,035 was disposed of as a result of the sale of 29 Canadian restaurants. See Note 2 for further information.
	During the fourth quarter of 2013, step one of our annual goodwill impairment test indicated that our international franchise restaurants reporting unit was impaired as its carrying amount exceeded its fair value. The fair value of our international franchise reporting unit was based on the income approach, which was determined based on the present value of the anticipated cash flows associated with the reporting unit. The decline in the fair value of the international franchise restaurants reporting unit resulted from lower than anticipated current and future operating results including lower projected growth rates and profitability levels than previously anticipated. Step two of our process resulted in an impairment charge of $9,397, which represented the total amount of goodwill recorded for our international franchise restaurants reporting unit. We concluded in 2014 and 2013 that our remaining goodwill related to our North America company-owned and franchise restaurants reporting unit was not impaired.
	The following is a summary of the components of other intangible assets and the related amortization expense:
		Year End 2014										Year End 2013
		Cost				Accumulated Amortization				Net		Cost		Accumulated Amortization			Net
	Indefinite-lived:
	Trademarks	$	903,000			$	—			$	903,000	$	903,000	$	—		$	903,000
	Definite-lived:
	Franchise agreements	350,802				(104,596		)		246,206		352,339		(88,281		)	264,058
	Favorable leases	192,854				(43,231		)		149,623		140,619		(41,625		)	98,994
	Reacquired rights under franchise agreements	8,685				(1,109		)		7,576		23,065		(21,219		)	1,846
	Computer software	85,170				(40,210		)		44,960		68,665		(30,783		)	37,882
		$	1,540,511			$	(189,146	)		$	1,351,365	$	1,487,688	$	(181,908	)	$	1,305,780
	Aggregate amortization expense:
	Actual for fiscal year (a):
	2012	$	32,713
	2013	55,516
	2014	42,300
	Estimate for fiscal year:
	2015	$	41,608
	2016	38,702
	2017	37,472
	2018	35,422
	2019	31,416
	Thereafter	263,745
	_______________
	(a)	Includes $1,399, $792 and $1,757 of impairment charges related to other intangible assets in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Also, 2014 and 2013 include System Optimization Remeasurement of $2,211 and $1,678, respectively, and accelerated amortization on previously acquired franchise rights in territories sold as a part of our system optimization initiative of $474 and $16,907, respectively.

Accrued_Expenses_and_Other_Cur

Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Accrued Expenses [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses [Text Block]	Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities
		Year End
		2014		2013
	Accrued compensation and related benefits	$	43,139	$	68,394
	Accrued taxes	23,581		21,791
	Accrued pension (a)	12,781		13,513
	Other	61,175		56,402
		$	140,676	$	160,100
	_______________
	(a)	Represents a liability resulting from our company-owned bakery’s withdrawal from a multiemployer pension plan in the fourth quarter of 2013. See Note 18 for more information.

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	Long-Term Debt
	Long-term debt consisted of the following:
		Year End
		2014			2013
	Term A Loans, due in 2018 (a)	$	541,733		$	570,625
	Term B Loans, due in 2019 (a)	759,758			767,452
	7% debentures, due in 2025 (b)	85,853			84,666
	Capital lease obligations, due through 2042	60,799			40,732
	Other	—			353
		1,448,143			1,463,828
	Less amounts payable within one year	(53,777		)	(38,543		)
	Total long-term debt	$	1,394,366		$	1,425,285
	Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, excluding the effect of purchase accounting adjustments, as of December 28, 2014 were as follows:
	Fiscal Year
	2015		$	53,777
	2016		59,117
	2017		66,290
	2018		397,364
	2019		731,060
	Thereafter		154,682
			$	1,462,290
	_______________
	(a)	On May 15, 2012, Wendy’s entered into a Credit Agreement, as amended (the “Credit Agreement”) which included, among other instruments, a senior secured term loan facility of $1,125,000 (“Term B Loans”). The Term B Loans were issued at 99.0% of the principal amount, representing an original issue discount of 1.0% resulting in net proceeds of $1,113,750. The discount of $11,250 was accreted and the related charge included in “Interest expense” through the subsequent refinancing described below. During the year ended December 30, 2012, Wendy’s incurred $15,566 in costs related to the Credit Agreement, which were amortized to “Interest expense” through the subsequent refinancing described below utilizing the effective interest rate method. The Credit Agreement replaced the $650,000 credit agreement and the amended senior secured term loan (the “2010 Term Loan”) executed in 2010.
	On May 16, 2013, Wendy’s amended and restated the Credit Agreement (the “Restated Credit Agreement”). The Restated Credit Agreement is comprised of (1) a $350,000 senior secured term loan facility (“Term A Loans”) which will mature on May 15, 2018 and bears interest at the Eurodollar Rate (as defined in the Restated Credit Agreement) plus 2.25%, (2) $769,375 Term B Loans which will mature on May 15, 2019 and bear interest at the Eurodollar Rate plus 2.50% with a floor of 0.75% and (3) a $200,000 senior secured revolving credit facility which will mature on May 15, 2018. The proceeds from the Term A Loans were used to refinance a portion of our existing Term B Loans. As a result of this refinancing, Wendy’s incurred a loss on the early extinguishment of debt of $21,019 during the second quarter of 2013 which consisted of the write-off of the unaccreted discount on Term B Loans and the deferred costs associated with the Credit Agreement, as illustrated in the table below. The Restated Credit Agreement also contains provisions for an uncommitted increase of up to $275,000 principal amount of the Term B Loans subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions. The revolving credit facility includes a sub-facility for the issuance of up to $70,000 of letters of credit and allows for liens in the form of cash collateralized letters of credit up to an additional $40,000. The obligations under the Restated Credit Agreement are secured by substantially all of the non-real estate assets and stock of Wendy’s and its domestic subsidiaries (other than certain unrestricted subsidiaries) and 65% of the stock of certain of its foreign subsidiaries in each case subject to certain limitations and exceptions.
	On September 24, 2013, Wendy’s entered into an amendment (the “Amendment”) to its Restated Credit Agreement to borrow an aggregate principal amount of up to $225,000 of additional Term A Loans (“Incremental Term Loans”). The Amendment does not contain any material changes to existing covenants or other terms of the Restated Credit Agreement, except as described in the preceding sentence. On October 24, 2013, Wendy’s borrowed $225,000 of Incremental Term Loans under the Amendment.
	The Term B Loans, Term A Loans and Incremental Term Loans (collectively, the “Term Loans”) are payable in quarterly installments which commenced on December 31, 2012, September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2013, respectively, with the remaining balances payable upon maturity. In addition, the Term Loans require prepayments of principal amounts resulting from certain events and excess cash flow on an annual basis from Wendy’s as defined under the Restated Credit Agreement. An excess cash flow payment was not required for fiscal 2014, 2013 or 2012. An unused commitment fee of 50 basis points per annum is payable quarterly on the average unused amount of the revolving credit facility until the maturity date. During the third quarter of 2013, Wendy’s transitioned the security for all of its outstanding letters of credit from the revolving credit facility to cash collateral. Therefore, as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, there were no amounts outstanding under the revolving credit facility. As of December 28, 2014, the Company had outstanding cash collateralized letters of credit with various parties of $16,843. The interest rates on Term A Loans and Term B Loans were 2.41% and 3.25%, respectively, as of December 28, 2014.
	During the year ended December 29, 2013, Wendy’s incurred $7,961 in costs related to the Restated Credit Agreement and the Amendment, which are being amortized to “Interest expense” through the maturity of the Term Loans utilizing the effective interest rate method. Proceeds from the Incremental Term Loans, plus cash on hand, were used to redeem all amounts outstanding on the aggregate principal amount of the Wendy’s 6.20% Senior Notes due in 2014 (the “6.20% Senior Notes”) at a price equal to 103.8%, as defined in the 6.20% Senior Notes and accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. In connection with the redemption of the 6.20% Senior Notes, Wendy’s terminated the related interest rate swaps with notional amounts totaling $225,000 which had been designated as fair value hedges. See Note 11 for more information on the interest rate swaps. As a result, Wendy’s recognized a loss on the early extinguishment of debt of $7,544 during the fourth quarter of 2013 which consisted of (1) a premium payment, as defined in the 6.20% Senior Notes, (2) the remaining fair value adjustment previously recorded in connection with the Wendy’s merger, partially offset by (3) a benefit from the cumulative effect of our fair value hedges, as illustrated in the table below.
	During the year ended December 30, 2012, proceeds from the Term B Loans were used (1) to repay all amounts outstanding under the 2010 Term Loan, (2) to redeem the Wendy’s Restaurants 10.00% Senior Notes due 2016 (the “Senior Notes”) in the amounts of $440,775 aggregate principal at a redemption price of 107.5% of the principal amount in July 2012 and to purchase $124,225 aggregate principal at a purchase price of 108.125% of the principal amount in May 2012, both plus accrued and unpaid interest and (3) to pay substantially all of the Credit Agreement fees and expenses.
	As a result of the refinancings described above, the Company incurred losses on the early extinguishment of debt as follows:
		Year End
		2013			2012
	Unaccreted discount on Term B Loans	$	9,561		$	—
	Deferred costs associated with the Credit Agreement	11,458			—
	Unaccreted fair value adjustment associated with the 6.20% Senior Notes	3,168			—
	Benefit from cumulative effect of the fair value hedges	(4,063		)	—
	Premium payment to redeem/purchase the 6.20% Senior Notes and the Senior Notes, respectively	8,439			43,151
	Unaccreted discount on the Senior Notes	—			9,272
	Deferred costs associated with the Senior Notes	—			12,433
	Unaccreted discount on the 2010 Term Loan	—			1,695
	Deferred costs associated with the 2010 Term Loan	—			8,525
	Loss on early extinguishment of debt	$	28,563		$	75,076
	The affirmative and negative covenants in the Restated Credit Agreement include, among others, preservation of corporate existence; payment of taxes; maintenance of insurance; and limitations on: indebtedness (including guarantee obligations of other indebtedness); liens; mergers, consolidations, liquidations and dissolutions; sales of assets; dividends and other payments in respect of capital stock; investments; payments of certain indebtedness; transactions with affiliates; changes in fiscal year; negative pledge clauses and clauses restricting subsidiary distributions; and material changes in lines of business. The financial covenants contained in the Restated Credit Agreement are (1) a consolidated interest coverage ratio and (2) a consolidated senior secured leverage ratio. Wendy’s was in compliance with the covenants of the Restated Credit Agreement as of December 28, 2014. The covenants generally do not restrict The Wendy’s Company or any of its subsidiaries that are not subsidiaries of Wendy’s.
	(b)	Wendy’s 7% debentures are unsecured and were reduced to fair value in connection with the Wendy’s merger based on their outstanding principal of $100,000 and an effective interest rate of 8.6%. The fair value adjustment is being accreted and the related charge included in “Interest expense” until the debentures mature. These debentures contain covenants that restrict the incurrence of indebtedness secured by liens and certain capitalized lease transactions. Wendy’s was in compliance with these covenants as of December 28, 2014.
	Wendy’s U.S. advertising fund has a revolving line of credit of $25,000. Neither the Company, nor Wendy’s, is the guarantor of the debt. The advertising fund facility was established to fund the advertising fund operations. The full amount of the line was available under this line of credit as of December 28, 2014.
	At December 28, 2014, one of Wendy’s Canadian subsidiaries had a revolving credit facility of C$6,000 which bears interest at the Bank of Montreal Prime Rate. The debt is guaranteed by Wendy’s. The full amount of the line was available under this line of credit as of December 28, 2014.
	The following is a summary of the Company’s assets pledged as collateral for certain debt:
		Year End
		2014
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	167,485
	Accounts and notes receivable (including long-term)	68,464
	Inventories	8,807
	Properties	272,505
	Goodwill	710,710
	Other intangible assets	1,201,742
	Other assets (including long-term)	30,645
		$	2,460,358

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	Fair Value Measurements
	Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Valuation techniques under the accounting guidance related to fair value measurements are based on observable and unobservable inputs. Observable inputs reflect readily obtainable data from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect our market assumptions. These inputs are classified into the following hierarchy:
	Level 1 Inputs - Quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.
	Level 2 Inputs - Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable.
	Level 3 Inputs - Pricing inputs are unobservable for the assets or liabilities and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the assets or liabilities. The inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation.
	Financial Instruments
	The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments at December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013:
		December 28,				December 29,
		2014				2013
		Carrying		Fair		Carrying		Fair		Fair Value
		Amount		Value		Amount		Value		Measurements
	Financial assets
	Cash equivalents	$	61,450	$	61,450	$	405,874	$	405,874	Level 1
	Non-current cost method investments (a)	4,264		147,760		3,387		130,433		Level 3
	Cash flow hedges (b)	—		—		1,212		1,212		Level 2
	Financial liabilities
	Cash flow hedges (b)	3,343		3,343		—		—		Level 2
	Term A Loans, due in 2018 (c)	541,733		540,717		570,625		569,555		Level 2
	Term B Loans, due in 2019 (c)	759,758		752,160		767,452		767,452		Level 2
	7% debentures, due in 2025 (c)	85,853		104,250		84,666		98,250		Level 2
	Guarantees of franchisee loan	968		968		884		884		Level 3
	obligations (d)
	_______________
	(a)	The fair value of our indirect investment in Arby’s is based on applying a multiple to Arby’s earnings before income taxes, depreciation and amortization per its current unaudited financial information. The carrying value of our indirect investment in Arby’s was reduced to zero during 2013 in connection with the receipt of a dividend. See Note 6 for more information. The fair values of our remaining investments are not significant and are based on our review of information provided by the investment managers or investees which was based on (1) valuations performed by the investment managers or investees, (2) quoted market or broker/dealer prices for similar investments and (3) quoted market or broker/dealer prices adjusted by the investment managers for legal or contractual restrictions, risk of nonperformance or lack of marketability, depending upon the underlying investments.
	(b)	The fair values were developed using market observable data for all significant inputs.
	(c)	The fair values were based on quoted market prices in markets that are not considered active markets.
	(d)	Wendy’s has provided loan guarantees to various lenders on behalf of franchisees entering into debt arrangements for new restaurant development and equipment financing. In addition during 2012, Wendy’s provided a guarantee to a lender for a franchisee in connection with the refinancing of the franchisee’s debt. We have accrued a liability for the fair value of these guarantees, the calculation of which was based upon a weighted average risk percentage established at inception adjusted for a history of defaults.
	The carrying amounts of cash, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximated fair value due to the short-term nature of those items. The carrying amounts of accounts and notes receivable (both current and non-current) approximated fair value due to the effect of the related allowance for doubtful accounts. Our derivative instruments, cash and cash equivalents and guarantees are the only financial assets and liabilities measured and recorded at fair value on a recurring basis.
	Derivative Instruments
	The Company’s primary objective for entering into interest rate swap agreements is to manage its exposure to changes in interest rates, as well as to maintain an appropriate mix of fixed and variable rate debt.
	Our derivative instruments as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013 consist of seven forward starting interest rate swap agreements to change the floating rate interest payments associated with $350,000 and $100,000 in borrowings expected to be outstanding under our Term A Loans and Term B Loans, respectively, to fixed interest rate obligations beginning on June 30, 2015 and maturing on December 31, 2017. At inception, the forward starting swap agreements were designated as cash flow hedges and are evaluated for effectiveness quarterly. See Note 10 for further information on the Company’s interest payments under the Restated Credit Agreement.
	As of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, the fair value of the cash flow hedges resulted in a liability of $3,343 and an asset of $1,212, respectively, which was included in “Other liabilities” and “Other assets,” respectively, and as an adjustment to “Accumulated other comprehensive loss.” Through December 28, 2014, no hedge ineffectiveness has occurred relating to these cash flow hedges. A pre-tax derivative loss of $586 based upon interest rates at December 28, 2014 is expected to be recognized in “Interest expense” in the next 12 months.
	Our derivative instruments for year ended December 29, 2013 also included interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges on our 6.20% Senior Notes with notional amounts totaling $225,000 to swap the fixed rate interest payments on the 6.20% Senior Notes for floating rate interest payments. In connection with the redemption of the 6.20% Senior Notes on October 24, 2013, we terminated these interest rate swaps and recognized a $4,063 benefit from the cumulative effect of our fair value hedges, which was included in “Loss on early extinguishment of debt” for the year ended December 29, 2013. See Note 10 for more information. Upon termination of the interest rate swaps, we received a $5,708 cash payment, which was recorded against the derivative asset and the related derivative interest receivable.
	Interest income on the fair value hedges was $4,319 and $5,510 for the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, respectively. There was no ineffectiveness from these fair value hedges through their termination in October 2013.
	The Company may be exposed to credit losses in the event of nonperformance by the counterparties to its derivative financial instrument contracts. We anticipate that the counterparties will be able to fully satisfy their obligations under the contracts. We do not obtain collateral or other security to support derivative financial instruments subject to credit risk and our interest rate swaps are not cleared through a central clearinghouse; however we do monitor the credit standing of the counterparties. All of the Company’s financial instruments were in a liability position as of December 28, 2014 and an asset position as of December 29, 2013 and therefore presented gross in the consolidated balance sheets.
	Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements
	Assets and liabilities remeasured to fair value on a non-recurring basis during the years ended December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013 resulted in impairment which we have recorded to “Facilities action (income) charges, net” in connection with our system optimization initiative and “Impairment of long-lived assets.”
	Total losses for the years ended December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013 reflect the impact of remeasuring long-lived assets (including land, buildings, leasehold improvements and favorable lease assets) at company-owned restaurants to fair value as a result of the Company’s decision to lease and/or sublease the land and/or buildings to franchisees in connection with the sale or anticipated sale of restaurants under its system optimization initiative. Such losses totaling $8,628 and $20,506 have been presented as System Optimization Remeasurement and included in “Facilities action (income) charges, net” in our consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively. The fair value of long-lived assets presented in the tables below represents the remaining carrying value of these long-lived assets and is based upon discounted cash flows of future anticipated lease and sublease income. See Note 2 for more information on our system optimization initiative and the related activity included in “Facilities action (income) charges, net” including System Optimization Remeasurement.
	Total losses for the years ended December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013 also include the impact of remeasuring long-lived assets at company-owned restaurants and surplus properties to fair value including (1) $5,146 and $9,094, respectively, from declines in operating performance and (2) $2,474 and $1,458, respectively, from surplus properties and closings and classifying such properties as held for sale. The year ended December 28, 2014, also includes losses of $3,365 from the determination that the assets will be leased and/or subleased to franchisees in connection with the sale of restaurants not included in our system optimization initiative. Losses for the year ended December 29, 2013 also include $5,327 as a result of the Company’s decision to sell its aircraft and classify them as held for sale. These losses have been presented as “Impairment of long-lived assets” in our consolidated statements of operations. The fair values of these long-lived assets and the aircraft presented in the tables below represent the remaining carrying value and were estimated based on either the current market values or the discounted cash flows of future anticipated lease and sublease income. See Note 15 for more information on the impairment of our long-lived assets.
	Total losses for the year ended December 29, 2013 also include the impact of remeasuring goodwill associated with our international franchise restaurants reporting unit in connection with our annual goodwill impairment test. Such losses totaling $9,397 represent the total amount of goodwill recorded for our international franchise restaurants reporting unit and have been presented as “Impairment of goodwill” in our consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 29, 2013. See Note 8 for more information on the impairment of goodwill.
				Fair Value Measurements						2014 Total Losses
		December 28,		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
		2014
	Long-lived assets	$	13,618	$	—	$	—	$	13,618	$	19,613
	Total	$	13,618	$	—	$	—	$	13,618	$	19,613
				Fair Value Measurements						2013 Total Losses
		December 29,		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
		2013
	Long-lived assets	$	14,788	$	—	$	—	$	14,788	$	31,058
	Goodwill	—		—		—		—		9,397
	Aircraft	8,500		—		—		8,500		5,327
	Total	$	23,288	$	—	$	—	$	23,288	$	45,782

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interests is set forth below:
			Year Ended
			2014			2013			2012
	Domestic		$	181,872		$	49,635		$	(23,154	)
	Foreign		19,397			9,417			10,029
			$	201,269		$	59,052		$	(13,125	)
	The (provision for) benefit from income taxes from continuing operations is set forth below:
			Year Ended
			2014			2013			2012
	Current:
	U.S. Federal		$	6,087		$	(1,603	)	$	104
	State		(8,289		)	7,879			(669		)
	Foreign		(8,093		)	(7,446		)	(8,667		)
	Current tax provision		(10,295		)	(1,170		)	(9,232		)
	Deferred:
	U.S. Federal		(70,246		)	(21,103		)	6,458
	State		233			6,173			18,026
	Foreign		473			1,946			5,831
	Deferred tax (provision) benefit		(69,540		)	(12,984		)	30,315
	Income tax (provision) benefit		$	(79,835	)	$	(14,154	)	$	21,083
	Deferred tax assets (liabilities) are set forth below:
			Year End
			2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Net operating loss and credit carryforwards		$	82,143		$	115,910
	Accrued compensation and related benefits		40,268			40,289
	Unfavorable leases		34,140			13,913
	Accrued expenses and reserves		23,336			31,555
	Deferred rent		15,214			13,121
	Other		9,122			8,682
	Valuation allowances		(11,213		)	(10,548		)
	Total deferred tax assets		193,010			212,922
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Intangible assets		(506,251		)	(473,011		)
	Owned and leased fixed assets net of related obligations		(89,117		)	(83,352		)
	Other		(17,824		)	(18,996		)
	Total deferred tax liabilities		(613,192		)	(575,359		)
			$	(420,182	)	$	(362,437	)
	Changes in the Company’s deferred tax asset and liability balances were primarily the result of the utilization of net operating loss and credit carryforwards and the impact of the system optimization initiative, as described in Note 2, primarily related to favorable and unfavorable leases and compensation accruals.
	The amounts and expiration dates of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards are as follows:
			Amount			Expiration
	Tax credit carryforwards:
	U.S. federal credits (primarily foreign tax credits and jobs credits)		$	90,136		2018-2034
	State tax credits		504			2019-2023
	Foreign tax credits of non-U.S. subsidiaries		2,313			2021-2023
	Total		$	92,953
	Net operating loss carryforwards:
	State net operating loss carryforwards		$	1,087,272		2015-2033
	As of December 28, 2014, the Company had a deferred tax asset of $124,566 related to the state net operating loss carryforwards and federal, foreign and state tax credits before reduction for unrecognized tax benefits related to excess share-based compensation deductions. In 2014 and prior years, we deducted $142,422 in excess of cumulative compensation costs relating to the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock. In 2014, the Company has recognized $9,363 of the $51,786 tax benefit relating to these deductions and will continue to do so in future periods as it continues to have income taxes currently payable against which the benefits can be realized as a result of utilizing its net operating loss and credit carryforwards. The Company has recognized the $9,363 tax benefit as a reduction of current income taxes payable with an equal offsetting increase in “Additional paid-in capital.”
	The Company’s valuation allowances of $11,213, $10,548 and $21,052 as of December 28, 2014, December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, respectively, relate to state net operating loss and foreign and state tax credit carryforwards. Valuation allowances increased $665 during the year ended December 28, 2014 primarily as a result of generating foreign tax credits with a limited carryforward period in 2014 that are in excess of what the Company expects to utilize prior to their expiration. Valuation allowances decreased $10,504 during the year ended December 29, 2013 primarily as a result of changes to the legal form of certain subsidiaries resulting in changes in expected future state taxable income available to utilize certain state net operating loss carryforwards. Valuation allowances increased $3,655 during the year ended December 30, 2012 primarily as a result of changes in state net operating losses.
	During the first quarter of 2013, the Company finalized its long-term investment plan with respect to the Company’s non-U.S. earnings. There are no plans to repatriate cash from, and the Company intends to indefinitely reinvest undistributed earnings of, its non-U.S. subsidiaries. As such, the Company reversed $1,832 of deferred tax liabilities during the year ended December 29, 2013, relating to investments in foreign subsidiaries which the Company now considers permanently invested outside of the U.S.
	Consequently, deferred income taxes have not been recorded for temporary differences related to investments in non-U.S. subsidiaries. These temporary differences were approximately $63,800 at December 28, 2014 and consisted primarily of undistributed earnings considered permanently invested in operations outside the U.S. Determination of the incremental income tax liability on these unremitted earnings is dependent on circumstances existing if, and when remittance occurs. However, we estimate that if unremitted earnings were to have been remitted, the additional tax liability would have been approximately $6,100 at December 28, 2014.
	The reconciliation of income tax computed at the U.S. Federal statutory rate to reported income tax is set forth below:
			Year Ended
			2014			2013			2012
	Income tax (provision) benefit at the U.S. Federal statutory rate		$	(70,444	)	$	(20,668	)	$	4,594
	State income tax (provision) benefit, net of U.S. Federal income tax effect		(5,309		)	(1,370		)	11,364
	Foreign and U.S. tax effects of foreign operations (a)		4,089			2,886			347
	Jobs tax credits, net		2,084			4,384			970
	Dividends received deduction (b)		—			1,424			1,133
	Corrections related to prior years’ tax matters (c)		—			—			7,620
	Non-deductible goodwill (d)		(9,389		)	(9,875		)	—
	Valuation allowances (e)		(665		)	10,504			(3,655		)
Non-deductible expenses and other, net		(201		)	(1,439		)	(1,290		)
		$	(79,835	)	$	(14,154	)	$	21,083
_______________
(a)	2013 includes reversal of deferred taxes on investments in foreign subsidiaries now considered permanently invested outside of the U.S.
(b)	We received dividends of $40,145 and $4,625 during 2013 and 2012, respectively, from our investment in Arby’s. See Note 6 for further information.
(c)	Corrections in 2012 related to tax matters in prior years for the effects of tax depreciation in states that do not follow federal law of $3,300, the effects of a one-time federal employment tax credit in 2011 of $2,220 and a correction to certain deferred tax assets and liabilities of $2,100.
(d)	Substantially all of the goodwill included in the gain on sales of restaurants in 2014 and 2013, including under our system optimization initiative as noted below, and the impairment of international goodwill in 2013 was non-deductible for tax purposes. See Notes 2, 3 and 8 for further information.
(e)	Includes changes for deferred tax assets generated or utilized during the current year and changes in our judgment regarding the likelihood of the utilization of deferred tax assets. 2013 primarily relates to changes in the likelihood of the utilization of deferred tax assets related to state net operating loss carryforwards.
The Company’s system optimization initiative described in Note 2 impacted our tax provision due to the following: 1) goodwill disposed of in connection with the sale of restaurants during 2014 and 2013 of $4,914 and $7,471, respectively, substantially all of which was non-deductible for tax purposes, (2) changes to the Canadian deferred tax rate of $70 in 2014 and (3) changes to the state deferred tax rate of $5,122 in 2013. These amounts are included in the state income tax provision, the foreign provision and the non-deductible goodwill amounts presented in the table above.
The Company participates in the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) Compliance Assurance Process (“CAP”). As part of CAP, tax years are examined on a contemporaneous basis so that all or most issues are resolved prior to the filing of the tax return. As such, our tax returns for fiscal years 2009 through 2013 have been settled. Certain of the Company’s state income tax returns from its 2001 fiscal year and forward remain subject to examination. We believe that adequate provisions have been made for any liabilities, including interest and penalties that may result from the completion of these examinations.
Uncertain Tax Positions
As of December 28, 2014, the Company had unrecognized tax benefits of $25,715, which, if resolved favorably would reduce income tax expense by $18,762. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits follows:
		Year End
		2014			2013			2012
Beginning balance		$	23,897		$	28,848		$	30,614
Additions:
Tax positions of prior years		2,678			3,579			3,410
Reductions:
Tax positions of prior years		(582		)	(4,914		)	(2,964		)
Settlements		—			(2,416		)	(1,327		)
Lapse of statute of limitations		(278		)	(1,200		)	(885		)
Ending balance		$	25,715		$	23,897		$	28,848
In January 2014, the Company adopted the FASB amendment requiring unrecognized tax benefits to be presented as a reduction to deferred tax assets when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss or a tax credit carryforward exists. The adoption of this amendment in the first quarter of 2014 resulted in a reduction of $6,214 in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits and a corresponding increase to net non-current deferred income tax liabilities. During 2014, the Company increased its unrecognized tax benefits by $2,627 for certain amended state returns.
During 2015, we believe it is reasonably possible the Company will reduce unrecognized tax benefits by up to $5,836, primarily as a result of the completion of certain state tax audits.
During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized $315, $(835) and $(584) of expense (income) for interest and $330, $672 and $204 of income resulting from the reversal of accrued penalties, respectively, related to uncertain tax positions. The Company has approximately $2,949 and $2,634 accrued for interest and $657 and $987 accrued for penalties as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively.

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	Stockholders’ Equity
	Dividends
	During the years ended December 28, 2014, December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, The Wendy’s Company paid dividends per share of $0.21, $0.18 and $0.10, respectively.
	Treasury Stock
	There were 470,424 shares of common stock issued at the beginning and end of 2014, 2013 and 2012. Treasury stock activity for 2014, 2013 and 2012 was as follows:
			Treasury Stock
			2014		2013			2012
	Number of shares at beginning of year		77,637		78,051			80,700
	Repurchases of common stock		32,716		8,720			—
	Common shares issued:
	Stock options, net		(4,930	)	(8,771	)		(2,079	)
	Restricted stock, net		(732	)	(202	)		(211	)
	Director fees		(24	)	(35	)		(45	)
	Other		(53	)	(126	)		(314	)
	Number of shares at end of year		104,614		77,637			78,051
	Repurchases of Common Stock
	In August 2014, our Board of Directors authorized a repurchase program for up to $100,000 of our common stock through December 31, 2015, when and if market conditions warrant and to the extent legally permissible. During 2014, the Company repurchased 2,986 shares with an aggregate purchase price of $23,889, excluding commissions of $52. Subsequent to December 28, 2014 through February 18, 2015, we repurchased 545 shares for an aggregate purchase price of $5,996, excluding commissions of $10.
	In January 2014, our Board of Directors authorized a repurchase program for up to $275,000 of our common stock through the end of fiscal year 2014. As part of the repurchase program, the Board of Directors also authorized the commencement of a modified Dutch auction tender offer to repurchase shares of our common stock for an aggregate purchase price of up to $275,000. On February 11, 2014, the tender offer expired and on February 19, 2014, the Company repurchased 29,730 shares for an aggregate purchase price of $275,000. As a result, the repurchase program authorized in January 2014 was completed. The Company incurred costs of $2,275 in connection with the tender offer, which were recorded to treasury stock.
	In November 2012, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $100,000 of our common stock through December 29, 2013. During 2013, the Company repurchased 8,720 shares with an aggregate purchase price of $69,167, excluding commissions of $153. The authorization for the repurchase program expired at the end of the 2013 fiscal year. No repurchases were made during the year ended December 30, 2012.
	Preferred Stock
	There were 100,000 shares authorized and no shares issued of preferred stock throughout 2014, 2013 and 2012.
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	The following table provides a rollforward of the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to The Wendy’s Company, net of tax as applicable:
		Foreign Currency Translation			Cash Flow Hedges				Pension			Total
	Balance at January 1, 2012	$	1,101		$	—			$	(999	)	$	102
	Current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	6,096			—				(217		)	5,879
	Balance at December 30, 2012	7,197			—				(1,216		)	5,981
	Current-period other comprehensive (loss) income	(17,000		)	744				(62		)	(16,318		)
	Balance at December 29, 2013	(9,803		)	744				(1,278		)	(10,337		)
	Current-period other comprehensive (loss) income	(18,560		)	(2,788		)		391			(20,957		)
	Balance at December 28, 2014	$	(28,363	)	$	(2,044	)		$	(887	)	$	(31,294	)
	The cumulative gains and losses on these items are included in “Accumulated other comprehensive loss” in the consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of stockholders’ equity.
	Restricted Net Assets of Subsidiaries
	Restricted net assets of consolidated subsidiaries were approximately $843,000, representing approximately 49% of The Wendy’s Company’s consolidated stockholders’ equity as of December 28, 2014 and consisted of net assets of Wendy’s which were restricted as to transfer to The Wendy’s Company in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances under the covenants of the Restated Credit Agreement.
	Dividends paid to The Wendy’s Company from its subsidiaries totaled $210,000 and $170,000 in 2014 and 2013, respectively. No dividends were paid in 2012.

ShareBased_Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]	Share-Based Compensation
	The Company maintains several equity plans (the “Equity Plans”) which collectively provide or provided for the grant of stock options, restricted shares, tandem stock appreciation rights, restricted share units and performance shares to certain officers, other key employees, non-employee directors and consultants. The Company has not granted any tandem stock appreciation rights. During 2010, the Company implemented the 2010 Omnibus Award Plan (the “2010 Plan”) for the issuance of equity awards as described above. All equity grants during 2014 and 2013 were issued from the 2010 Plan and it is currently the only equity plan from which future equity awards may be granted. As of December 28, 2014, there were approximately 26,765 shares of common stock available for future grants under the 2010 Plan. During the periods presented in the consolidated financial statements, the Company settled all exercises of stock options and vesting of restricted shares, including performance shares, with treasury shares.
	Stock Options
	The Company’s current outstanding stock options have maximum contractual terms of ten years and vest ratably over three years or cliff vest after three years. The exercise price of options granted is equal to the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The fair value of stock options on the date of grant is calculated using the Black-Scholes Model. The aggregate intrinsic value of an option is the amount by which the fair value of the underlying stock exceeds its exercise price.
	The following table summarizes stock option activity during 2014:
		Number of Options			Weighted				Weighted		Aggregate
					Average				Average		Intrinsic
					Exercise				Remaining		Value
					Price				Contractual
									Life in Years
	Outstanding at December 29, 2013	20,533			$	6.58
	Granted	5,346			8.22
	Exercised	(5,338	)		6.46
	Forfeited and/or expired	(973	)		8.55
	Outstanding at December 28, 2014	19,568			$	6.96			6.9		$	44,002
	Vested or expected to vest at December 28, 2014	19,219			$	6.96			6.9		$	43,325
	Exercisable at December 28, 2014	7,787			$	6.94			4.2		$	21,132
	The total intrinsic value of options exercised during 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $13,948, $28,038 and $2,280, respectively. The weighted average grant date fair value of stock options granted during 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $2.34, $2.72 and $1.80, respectively.
	The weighted average grant date fair value of stock options was determined using the following assumptions:
		2014			2013			2012
	Risk-free interest rate	1.97	%		1.6	%		0.98	%
	Expected option life in years	6.35			5.62			6.62
	Expected volatility	35.4	%		45.6	%		45.9	%
	Expected dividend yield	2.43	%		2.52	%		1.71	%
	The risk-free interest rate represents the U.S. Treasury zero-coupon bond yield correlating to the expected life of the stock options granted. The expected option life represents the period of time that the stock options granted are expected to be outstanding based on historical exercise trends for similar grants. The expected volatility is based on the historical market price volatility of our industry peer group. The expected dividend yield represents the Company’s annualized average yield for regular quarterly dividends declared prior to the respective stock option grant dates.
	The Black-Scholes Model has limitations on its effectiveness including that it was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options which have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable and that the model requires the use of highly subjective assumptions including expected stock price volatility. Employee stock option awards have characteristics significantly different from those of traded options and changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimates.
	Restricted Shares
	The Company grants RSAs and RSUs, which primarily cliff vest after one to three years. For the purposes of our disclosures, the term “Restricted Shares” applies to RSAs and RSUs collectively unless otherwise noted. The fair value of Restricted Shares granted is determined using the average of the high and low trading prices of our common stock on the date of grant.
	The following table summarizes activity of Restricted Shares during 2014:
		Number of Restricted Shares			Weighted
					Average
					Grant Date Fair Value
	Non-vested at December 29, 2013	2,300			$	5.75
	Granted	994			8.38
	Vested	(620	)		5.38
	Forfeited	(231	)		6.81
	Non-vested at December 28, 2014	2,443			$	6.8
	The total fair value of Restricted Shares that vested in 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $5,251, $2,275 and $2,023, respectively.
	Performance Shares
	The Company grants performance-based awards to certain officers and key employees. The vesting of these awards is contingent upon meeting one or more defined operational goals (a performance condition) or common stock share prices (a market condition). The quantity of shares awarded ranges from 0% to 200% of “Target,” as defined in the award agreement as the midpoint number of shares, based on the level of achievement of the performance and market conditions.
	The fair values of the performance condition awards granted in 2014 and 2013 were determined using the average of the high and low trading prices of our common stock on the date of grant. There were no performance condition awards granted in 2012. Share-based compensation expense recorded for performance condition awards is reevaluated at each reporting period based on the probability of the achievement of the goal.
	The fair value of market condition awards granted in 2012 was estimated using the Monte Carlo simulation model. There were no market condition awards granted during 2014 or 2013. The Monte Carlo simulation model utilizes multiple input variables to estimate the probability that the market conditions will be achieved and is applied to the average of the high and low trading prices of our common stock on the date of grant.
	The input variables are noted in the table below:
		2012
	Risk-free interest rate	0.41	%
	Expected life in years	2.99
	Expected volatility	34	%
	Expected dividend yield (a)	0	%
	_______________
	(a)	The Monte Carlo method assumes a reinvestment of dividends.
	Share-based compensation expense is recorded ratably for market condition awards during the requisite service period and is not reversed, except for forfeitures, at the vesting date regardless of whether the market condition is met.
	The following table summarizes activity of performance shares at Target during 2014:
		Performance Condition Awards							Market Condition Awards
		Shares			Weighted				Shares			Weighted
					Average							Average
					Grant Date Fair Value							Grant Date Fair Value
	Non-vested at December 29, 2013	531			$	7.92			1,522			$	6.52
	Granted	454			9.74				—			—
	Dividend equivalent units issued (a)	22			—				23			—
	Vested (b)	(11	)		7.92				(706	)		6.96
	Forfeited	(63	)		8.31				(171	)		6.53
	Non-vested at December 28, 2014	933			$	8.81			668			$	6.04
	_______________
	(a)	Dividend equivalent units are issued in lieu of cash dividends for non-vested performance shares. There is no weighted average fair value associated with dividend equivalent units.
(b)	Excludes the vesting of an additional 54 shares, which resulted from the performance of market condition awards exceeding Target.
The total fair value of performance condition awards that vested in 2014 and 2013 was $104 and $1,767, respectively. The total fair value of market condition awards that vested in 2014 and 2013 was $6,382 and $289, respectively. No performance-based awards vested in 2012.
Modifications of Share-Based Awards
During 2014 and 2013, the Company modified the terms of awards granted to 45 and 20 employees, respectively, in connection with its system optimization initiative and G&A realignment plan discussed in Note 2. These modifications resulted in the accelerated vesting of certain stock options and performance-based awards upon termination of such employees. As a result, during 2014 and 2013, the Company recognized net increases in share-based compensation of $2,376 and $986, respectively, of which $4,472 and $1,253 was included in “Facilities action (income) charges, net,” respectively, with offsetting reductions to “General and administrative” of $2,096 and $267, respectively.
Share-Based Compensation
Total share-based compensation and the related income tax benefit recognized in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations were as follows:
	Year Ended
	2014				2013				2012
Stock options	$	13,820			$	7,300			$	5,578
Restricted Shares	4,554				3,985				2,730
Performance shares:
Performance condition awards	7,456				2,007				—
Market condition awards	37				5,279				3,210
Modifications, net	2,376				1,042				(45		)
Share-based compensation	28,243				19,613				11,473
Less: Income tax benefit	(10,429		)		(7,295		)		(4,286		)
Share-based compensation, net of income tax benefit	$	17,814			$	12,318			$	7,187
As of December 28, 2014, there was $20,076 of total unrecognized share-based compensation, which will be recognized over a weighted average amortization period of 2.2 years.

Impairment_of_LongLived_Assets

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Asset Impairment Charges [Abstract]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
	Impairment of long-lived assets primarily includes impairment charges on restaurant level assets resulting from (1) the deterioration in operating performance of certain restaurants, (2) additional charges for capital improvements in restaurants impaired in prior years which did not subsequently recover and (3) the closure of company-owned restaurants and classifying such properties as held for sale. Additionally, in 2014 we recorded impairment on long-lived assets of $3,365 as a result of the determination that the assets will be leased and/or subleased to franchisees in connection with the sale of restaurants which were not included in our system optimization initiative.
	During 2013, the Company decided to sell its company-owned aircraft and recorded an impairment charge of $5,327 to reflect the aircraft at fair value based on current market values. The aircraft were sold during 2014 resulting in a net loss of $261.
	During 2012, we closed 15 company-owned restaurants in connection with our review of certain underperforming locations, which resulted in an impairment charge of $3,270. In addition, we incurred costs related to these restaurant closings of $1,477, primarily for continuing lease obligations, which are included in “Other operating expense, net.” In addition, during the first quarter of 2012, we recorded an impairment charge of $1,628 to reflect a company-owned aircraft at fair value as a result of classifying the aircraft as held for sale. During the second quarter of 2012, the Company decided to lease the aircraft and as a result reclassified the aircraft to held and used.
	These impairment losses, as detailed in the following table, represented the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the affected assets and are included in “Impairment of long-lived assets.”
		Year Ended
		2014		2013		2012
	Properties and intangible assets	$	10,985	$	10,552	$	19,469
	Aircraft	—		5,327		1,628
		$	10,985	$	15,879	$	21,097

Investment_Income_Net_Notes

Investment Income, Net (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Investment Income, Net [Abstract]
Investment Income (Expense), Net [Text Block]	Investment Income, Net
		Year Ended
		2014		2013			2012
	Gain (loss) on sale of investments, net (a)	$	975	$	(799	)	$	27,769
	Distributions, including dividends (b)	184		24,113			8,463
	Other, net	40		251			11
		$	1,199	$	23,565		$	36,243
	_______________
	(a)	In 2012, we recorded a gain on the sale of our investment in Jurlique of $27,407, which included a loss of $2,913 on the settlement of the derivative transaction. During 2013, we determined that $799 of the remaining escrow would not be received and recorded the reduction of our escrow receivable to “Investment income, net.” In 2014, we received a final escrow payment resulting in a net gain of $199. See Note 6 for further information.
	(b)	During 2013, we received a dividend of $40,145 from our investment in Arby’s, of which $21,145 was recognized in “Investment income, net,” with the remainder recorded as a reduction to the carrying value of our investment in Arby’s. During 2012, we received a dividend of $4,625 from our investment in Arby’s, which was included in “Investment income, net.” See Note 6 for further information.

Discontinued_Operations

Discontinued Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations	Discontinued Operations
	On July 4, 2011, Wendy’s Restaurants completed the sale of 100% of the common stock of Arby’s, its then wholly-owned subsidiary, to ARG IH Corporation (“Buyer”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of ARG Holding Corporation (“Buyer Parent”), for $130,000 in cash (subject to customary purchase price adjustments) and 18.5% of the common stock of Buyer Parent (through which Wendy’s Restaurants indirectly retained an 18.5% interest in Arby’s) with a fair value of $19,000. Buyer and Buyer Parent were formed for purposes of this transaction. The Buyer also assumed approximately $190,000 of Arby’s debt, consisting primarily of capital lease and sale-leaseback obligations.
	Information related to Arby’s has been reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements as follows:
	•	Balance sheets - As a result of our sale of Arby’s on July 4, 2011, there are no remaining Arby’s assets and liabilities included in our consolidated balance sheets.
	•	Statements of operations - Net (loss) income from discontinued operations for the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012 includes certain post-closing Arby’s related transactions.
	•	Statements of cash flows - The statements of cash flows for the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012 include the effect of certain post-closing Arby’s related transactions.
	The following table presents Arby’s (loss) income from operations which have been reported in discontinued operations:
			Year Ended
			2013			2012
	(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes:
	(Loss) income from discontinued operations before income taxes		$	(425	)	$	907
	Benefit from income taxes		159			1,044
			(266		)	1,951
	Loss on disposal of discontinued operations, net of income taxes		—			(442		)
	Net (loss) income from discontinued operations		$	(266	)	$	1,509
	Income from discontinued operations before income taxes for the year ended December 30, 2012 includes the effect of reversals of certain tax accruals, retained by the Company in connection with the sale of Arby’s, including sales tax reserves and interest and penalty accruals for uncertain tax positions, due to the lapse of certain statutes of limitations and favorable settlements. The benefit from income taxes for the year ended December 30, 2012 includes approximately $580 of employment credits realized by the Company for 2011 through the date of the sale of Arby’s and reversals of accruals for uncertain tax positions discussed above, partially offset by taxes on income from discontinued operations. Loss on disposal of discontinued operations, net of income taxes, for the year ended December 30, 2012, includes the after tax effect of amounts paid to the prior owner of an Arby’s location that was transferred to Wendy’s Restaurants during 2012, as contemplated in the sale agreement, and as such, had no impact on the total purchase price.

Retirement_Benefit_Plans

Retirement Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	Retirement Benefit Plans
	401(k) Plan
	Subject to certain restrictions, the Company has a 401(k) defined contribution plan (the “401(k) Plan”) for all of its employees who meet certain minimum requirements and elect to participate. The 401(k) Plan permits employees to contribute up to 75% of their compensation, subject to certain limitations and provides for matching employee contributions up to 4% of compensation and for discretionary profit sharing contributions.
	In connection with the matching and profit sharing contributions, the Company recognized compensation expense of $7,023, $8,235 and $8,887 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Pension Plans
	The Wendy’s Company maintains two domestic qualified defined benefit plans, the benefits under which were frozen in 1988 and for which The Wendy’s Company has no unrecognized prior service cost. Arby’s employees who were eligible to participate through 1988 (the “Eligible Arby’s Employees”) are covered under one of these plans. Pursuant to the terms of the Arby’s sale agreement, Wendy’s Restaurants retained the liabilities related to the Eligible Arby’s Employees under these plans and received $400 from Buyer for the unfunded liability related to the Eligible Arby’s Employees. In conjunction with the sale of Arby’s, Wendy’s Restaurants transferred the liabilities related to the Eligible Arby’s Employees to The Wendy’s Company. The measurement date used by The Wendy’s Company in determining amounts related to its defined benefit plans is the same as the Company’s fiscal year end.
	The balance of the accumulated benefit obligations and the fair value of the plans’ assets at December 28, 2014 were $4,080 and $3,065, respectively. As of December 29, 2013, the balance of the accumulated benefit obligations and the fair value of the plans’ assets were $3,797 and $2,924, respectively. As of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, each of the plans had accumulated benefit obligations in excess of the fair value of the assets of the respective plan. The Wendy’s Company recognized $126, $175, and $42 in benefit plan expenses in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which were included in “General and administrative.” The Wendy’s Company’s future required contributions to the plan are expected to be insignificant.
	Multiemployer Pension Plan
	Prior to the fourth quarter of 2013, the unionized employees at The New Bakery Co. of Ohio, Inc. (the “Bakery Company”), a 100% owned subsidiary of Wendy’s, now known as The New Bakery Company, LLC, were covered by the Bakery and Confectionery Union and Industry International Pension Fund (the “Union Pension Fund”), a multiemployer pension plan. The Bakery Company remitted contributions based on hours worked by covered, unionized employees pursuant to a collective bargaining agreement that expired on March 31, 2013 and the Rehabilitation Plan adopted by the Union Pension Fund in accordance with the provisions of the Pension Protection Act of 2006 due to the underfunded status of the plan. Contributions, which are included in “Cost of Sales,” were $733 and $785 for 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	In December of 2013, the Bakery Company terminated its participation in the Union Pension Fund and formally notified the plan’s trustees of its withdrawal from the plan. The Union Pension Fund administrator acknowledged the withdrawal, which required Wendy’s to assume an estimated withdrawal liability of $13,500 based on the applicable requirements of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, as amended, and which was included in “Cost of sales” during the fourth quarter of 2013. As a result, Wendy’s made payments to the Union Pension Fund totaling $719 during 2014 which were recorded as a reduction to the withdrawal liability. The Bakers Local No. 57, Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers & Grain Millers International Union of America, AFL-CIO (the “Union”) filed a charge with the National Labor Relations Board (the “NLRB”) related to the Bakery Company’s withdrawal from the Union Pension Fund. On July 22, 2014, The New Bakery of Zanesville, LLC (“Zanesville”), a 100% owned subsidiary of Wendy’s, and the Union entered into a settlement agreement with the NLRB. The terms of the settlement include an agreement by Zanesville and the Union to recommence negotiations. Zanesville and the Union have recommenced negotiations. Any final withdrawal liability will be determined through discussions between Zanesville and the Union Pension Fund administrator at the conclusion of the negotiations with the Union.
	The unionized employees became eligible to participate in the 401(k) Plan as of December 5, 2013, for which the Company has made contributions as discussed above in “401(k) plan.”
	Wendy’s Executive Plans
	In conjunction with the Wendy’s merger, amounts due under supplemental executive retirement plans (the “SERP”) were funded into a restricted account. As of January 1, 2011, participation in the SERP was frozen to new entrants and future contributions, and existing participants’ balances only earn annual interest. The corresponding SERP liabilities have been included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” and “Other liabilities” and, in the aggregate, were approximately $4,176 and $4,194 as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively.
	Pursuant to the terms of the employment agreement that was entered into with our President and Chief Executive Officer as of September 12, 2011, the Company implemented a non-qualified, unfunded, deferred compensation plan. The plan provides that the amount of the executive’s base salary in excess of $1,000 in a tax year will be deferred into the plan which accrues employer funded interest. The related deferred compensation liability has been included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” and was approximately $354 and $207 as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively, including both employee contributions and employer funded interest.

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block]	Leases
	At December 28, 2014, Wendy’s and its franchisees operated 6,515 Wendy’s restaurants. Of the 957 company-owned Wendy’s restaurants, Wendy’s owned the land and building for 444 restaurants, owned the building and held long-term land leases for 310 restaurants and held leases covering land and building for 203 restaurants. Lease terms are generally initially between 15 and 20 years and, in most cases, provide for rent escalations and renewal options. Certain leases contain contingent rent provisions that require additional rental payments based upon restaurant sales volume in excess of specified amounts. The Company also leases restaurant, office and transportation equipment. Certain leases also provide for payments of other costs such as real estate taxes, insurance and common area maintenance, which have been excluded from rental expense and future minimum rental payments set forth in the tables below.
	As of December 28, 2014, Wendy’s also owned 230 and leased 488 properties that were either leased or subleased principally to franchisees. Initial lease terms are generally 20 years and, in most cases, provide for rent escalations and renewal options. Certain leases to franchisees also include contingent rent provisions based on sales volume exceeding specified amounts. The lessee bears the cost of real estate taxes, insurance and common area maintenance, which have been excluded from rental income and future minimum rental receipts set forth in the tables below.
	Rental expense for operating leases consists of the following components:
			Year Ended
			2014				2013				2012
	Rental expense:
	Minimum rentals		$	76,218			$	68,445			$	70,525
	Contingent rentals		19,967				10,421				10,971
	Total rental expense (a)		$	96,185			$	78,866			$	81,496
	_______________
	(a)	Amounts exclude sublease income of $46,743, $16,924, and $13,317 recognized during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Rental income for operating leases and subleases consists of the following components:
			Year Ended
			2014				2013				2012
	Rental income:
	Minimum rentals		$	51,019			$	16,245			$	10,757
	Contingent rentals		17,745				11,162				11,086
	Total rental income		$	68,764			$	27,407			$	21,843
	The following table illustrates the Company’s future minimum rental payments and rental receipts for non-cancelable leases and subleases, including rental receipts for direct financing leases as of December 28, 2014. Rental receipts below are presented separately for owned properties and for leased properties based on the classification of the underlying lease.
		Rental Payments								Rental Receipts
	Fiscal Year	Capital				Operating				Capital			Operating		Owned
		Leases				Leases				Leases			Leases		Properties
	2015	$	7,617			$	70,119			$	7,658		$	32,501	$	20,105
	2016	7,110				64,537				7,783			32,285		20,010
	2017	6,512				63,376				8,032			32,074		19,923
	2018	7,585				61,290				7,750			31,187		20,096
	2019	7,734				59,587				7,723			30,879		21,096
	Thereafter	107,085				787,283				134,337			434,426		382,366
	Total minimum payments	$	143,643			$	1,106,192			$	173,283		$	593,352	$	483,596
	Less interest	(82,844		)
	Present value of minimum capital lease payments (a)	$	60,799
	_______________
	(a)	The present value of minimum capital lease payments of $821 and $59,978 are included in “Current portion of long-term debt” and “Long-term debt,” respectively.
	Properties owned by the Company and leased to franchisees and other third parties under operating leases include:
			Year End
			2014				2013
	Land		$	371,174			$	69,500
	Buildings and improvements		399,541				194,246
	Office, restaurant and transportation equipment		160,514				6,715
			931,229				270,461
	Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(162,731		)		(79,536		)
			$	768,498			$	190,925
	Our net investment in direct financing leases is as follows:
			Year Ended
			2014				2013
	Future minimum rental receipts		$	109,674			$	74,625
	Unearned income		(74,102		)		(53,654		)
	Net investment in direct financing leases		35,572				20,971
	Net current investment in direct financing leases (a)		(193		)		(226		)
	Net non-current investment in direct financing leases (b)		$	35,379			$	20,745
	_______________
	(a)	Included in “Accounts and notes receivable.”
	(b)	Included in “Other assets.”

Guarantees_and_Other_Commitmen

Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]
Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies	Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies
	Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities
	Franchise Image Activation Incentive Programs
	In 2014, Wendy’s announced incentive programs for 2015, 2016 and 2017 for franchisees that commence Image Activation restaurant remodels during those years. The incentive programs provide reductions in royalty payments for one year or two years after the completion of construction depending on the type of remodel.
	Wendy’s also had incentive programs that included reductions in royalty payments in 2014 as well as cash incentives for franchisees’ participation in Wendy’s Image Activation program throughout 2014 and 2013. The Company recognized expense of $4,369 and $9,178 for cash incentives in “General and administrative” during the years ended December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively.
	Franchisee Image Activation Financing Program
	In addition to the Image Activation incentive programs described above, Wendy’s executed an agreement in 2013 to partner with a third-party lender to establish a financing program for franchisees that participate in our Image Activation program. Under the program, the lender has agreed to provide loans to franchisees to be used for the reimaging of restaurants according to the guidelines and specifications under the Image Activation program. To support the program, Wendy’s has provided to the lender a $6,000 irrevocable stand-by letter of credit, which was issued on July 1, 2013.
	Other Loan Guarantees
	Wendy’s provides loan guarantees to various lenders on behalf of franchisees entering into pooled debt facility arrangements for new restaurant development and equipment financing to promote systemwide initiatives. Wendy’s has accrued a liability for the fair value of these guarantees, the calculation for which was based upon a weighted average risk percentage established at the inception of each program which has been adjusted for a history of defaults. Wendy’s potential recourse for the aggregate amount of these loans amounted to $9,508 as of December 28, 2014. As of December 28, 2014, the fair value of these guarantees totaled $784 and was included in “Other liabilities.”
	During 2014, Wendy’s provided a $1,995 guarantee to a lender on behalf of a franchisee, in connection with the sale of Canadian restaurants to the franchisee under the Company’s system optimization initiative. As a result, the total amount of the guarantee was recorded as a deferred gain and included in “Other liabilities.”
	During 2012, Wendy’s provided a $2,000 guarantee to a lender for a franchisee, in connection with the refinancing of the franchisee’s debt which originated in 2007. Pursuant to the agreement, the guarantee is subject to an annual reduction over a five year period. As of December 28, 2014, the guarantee totaled $1,676 and Wendy’s has accrued a $184 liability for the fair value of this guarantee based upon a weighted average risk percentage established at the inception of the guarantee.
	Lease Guarantees
	Wendy’s has guaranteed the performance of certain leases and other obligations, primarily from former company-owned restaurant locations now operated by franchisees, amounting to $38,217 as of December 28, 2014. These leases extend through 2050. We have not received any notice of default related to these leases as of December 28, 2014. In the event of default by a franchise owner, Wendy’s generally retains the right to acquire possession of the related restaurant locations.
	Wendy’s is contingently liable for certain other leases which have been assigned to unrelated third parties who have indemnified Wendy’s against future liabilities amounting to $3,211 as of December 28, 2014. These leases expire on various dates through 2021.
	Wendy’s Canadian subsidiary has established a lease guarantee program to promote new franchisee unit development for up to an aggregate of C$5,000 for periods of up to five years. Franchisees pay the Canadian subsidiary a nominal fee for the guarantee. As of December 28, 2014, the Canadian subsidiary had guaranteed $6 under this program.
	Insurance
	Wendy’s is self-insured for most workers’ compensation losses and purchases insurance for general liability and automotive liability losses, all subject to a $500 per occurrence retention or deductible limit. Wendy’s determines its liability for claims incurred but not reported for the insurance liabilities on an actuarial basis. Wendy’s is self-insured for health care claims for eligible participating employees subject to certain deductibles and limitations and determines its liability for health care claims incurred but not reported based on historical claims runoff data.
	Letters of Credit
	As of December 28, 2014, the Company had outstanding letters of credit with various parties including for the Image Activation financing program described above, totaling $17,060, of which $16,843 were cash collateralized. The related cash collateral is classified as restricted cash and included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets” in the consolidated balance sheet. See Note 5 and Note 10 for further information. We do not expect any material loss to result from these letters of credit.
	Purchase and Capital Commitments
	Beverage Agreement
	The Company has an agreement with a beverage vendor, which provides fountain beverage products and certain marketing support funding to the Company and its franchisees. This agreement requires minimum purchases of fountain syrup (“Syrup”) by the Company and its franchisees at certain agreed upon prices until the total contractual gallon volume usage is reached. This agreement also provides for an annual advance to be paid to the Company based on the vendor’s expectation of the Company’s annual Syrup usage, which is amortized over actual usage during the year. The Company estimates future annual purchases to be approximately $11,600 in 2015, $6,400 in 2016 and $5,200 per year during the following three years. Based on current pricing and the current ratio of usage at company-owned restaurants to franchised restaurants, our total beverage purchase requirements under the agreement is estimated to be approximately $45,600 over the remaining life of the contract, which expires the later of reaching the minimum usage requirement or January 1, 2023.
	Beverage purchases made by the Company under this agreement during 2014 and 2013 were $13,918 and $16,289, respectively. As of December 28, 2014, $2,543 is due to the beverage vendor and is included in “Accounts payable,” principally for annual estimated payments that exceeded usage, under this agreement.
	Capital Expenditure Commitments
	As of December 28, 2014, the Company had $45,409 of outstanding commitments, included in “Accounts payable,” for capital expenditures expected to be paid in 2015.

Transactions_with_Related_Part

Transactions with Related Parties	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Transactions with Related Parties	Transactions with Related Parties
	The following is a summary of transactions between the Company and its related parties, which are included in continuing operations:
		Year Ended
		2014			2013			2012
	Transactions with QSCC:
	Wendy’s Co-Op (a)	$	(1,516	)	$	(3,291	)	$	(2,464	)
	Lease income (b)	(185		)	(188		)	(191		)
	Transactions with the Management Company:
	Use of company-owned aircraft (c)	$	(375	)	$	(1,420	)	$	(1,309	)
	Sublease income (d)	—			—			(683		)
	Distributions of proceeds to noncontrolling interests (e)	$	—		$	—		$	3,667
	TimWen lease and management fee payments (f)	$	6,064		$	6,587		$	6,605
	_______________
	Transactions with QSCC
	(a)	Wendy’s has a purchasing co-op relationship agreement (the “Wendy’s Co-op”) with its franchisees which establishes Quality Supply Chain Co-op, Inc. (“QSCC”). QSCC manages, for the Wendy’s system in the U.S. and Canada, contracts for the purchase and distribution of food, proprietary paper, operating supplies and equipment under national agreements with pricing based upon total system volume. QSCC’s supply chain management facilitates continuity of supply and provides consolidated purchasing efficiencies while monitoring and seeking to minimize possible obsolete inventory throughout the Wendy’s supply chain in the U.S. and Canada.
	Wendy’s and its franchisees pay sourcing fees to third-party vendors on certain products sourced by QSCC. Such sourcing fees are remitted by these vendors to QSCC and are the primary means of funding QSCC’s operations. Should QSCC’s sourcing fees exceed its expected needs, QSCC’s board of directors may return some or all of the excess to its members in the form of a patronage dividend. Wendy’s recorded its share of patronage dividends of $1,516, $3,291 and $2,464 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which are included as a reduction of “Cost of sales.”
	(b)	Effective January 1, 2011, Wendy’s leased 14,333 square feet of office space to QSCC for an annual base rental of $176. There is currently one one-year renewal option remaining under this lease. The Wendy’s Company received $185, $188 and $191 of lease income from QSCC during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which has been recorded as a reduction of “General and administrative.”
	Transactions with the Management Company
	(c)	In June 2009, The Wendy’s Company and TASCO, LLC (an affiliate of a management company formed by the Former Executives and a director, who was our former Vice Chairman (the “Management Company”)) (“TASCO”) entered into an aircraft lease agreement (the “Aircraft Lease Agreement”) to lease a company-owned aircraft. On June 29, 2011, The Wendy’s Company and TASCO entered into an agreement to extend the Aircraft Lease Agreement for an additional one year period (expiring on June 30, 2012) and an increased monthly rent of $13. On June 30, 2012, The Wendy’s Company and TASCO entered into an extension of that lease agreement that extended the lease term to July 31, 2012 and effective as of August 1, 2012, entered into an amended and restated aircraft lease agreement (the “2012 Lease”) that expired on January 5, 2014. Under the 2012 Lease, all expenses related to the ownership, maintenance and operation of the aircraft were paid by TASCO, subject to certain limitations and termination rights. The 2012 Lease expired without any limitation or termination provisions being invoked. The Wendy’s Company did not extend or renew the 2012 Lease. Under the previous Aircraft Lease Agreement, the Company recorded lease income of $92 during 2012 as a reduction of “General and administrative.”
	The Wendy’s Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, was party to a three-year aircraft management and lease agreement, which expired in March 2014, with CitationAir, a subsidiary of Cessna Aircraft Company, pursuant to which the Company leased a corporate aircraft to CitationAir to use as part of its Jet Card program fleet. The Company entered into the lease agreement as a means of offsetting the cost of owning and operating the corporate aircraft by receiving revenue from third parties’ use of such aircraft. Under the terms of the lease agreement, the Company paid annual management and flight crew fees to CitationAir and reimbursed CitationAir for maintenance costs and fuel usage related to the corporate aircraft. In return, CitationAir paid a negotiated fee to the Company based on the number of hours that the corporate aircraft was used by Jet Card members. This fee was reduced based on the number of hours that (1) the Company used other aircraft in the Jet Card program fleet and (2) Jet Card members who are affiliated with the Company used the corporate aircraft or other aircraft in the Jet Card program fleet. The Company’s participation in the aircraft management and lease agreement reduced the aggregate costs that the Company would otherwise have incurred in connection with owning and operating the corporate aircraft. Under the terms of the lease agreement, the Company’s directors had the opportunity to become Jet Card members and to use aircraft in the Jet Card program fleet at the same negotiated fee paid by the Company as provided for under the lease agreement. During the first quarter of 2014 and the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, the Former Executives and a director, who was our former Vice Chairman, and members of their immediate families, used their Jet Card agreements for business and personal travel on aircraft in the Jet Card program fleet. The Management Company paid CitationAir directly, and the Company received credit from CitationAir for charges related to such travel of approximately $375, $1,420 and $1,217 during the first quarter of 2014 and the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, respectively.
	(d)	In July 2008 and July 2007, The Wendy’s Company entered into agreements under which the Management Company subleased (the “Subleases”) office space on two of the floors of the Company’s former New York headquarters. During the second quarter of 2010, The Wendy’s Company and the Management Company entered into an amendment to the sublease, effective April 1, 2010, pursuant to which the Management Company’s early termination right was canceled in exchange for a reduction in rent. Under the terms of the amended sublease, which expired in May 2012, the Management Company paid rent to the Company in an amount that covered substantially all of the Company’s rent obligations under the prime lease for the subleased space. The Company recognized income of $683 from the Management Company under such subleases in 2012, which has been recorded as a reduction of “General and administrative.”
	Distributions of proceeds to noncontrolling interests
	(e)	Jurl, a 99.7% owned subsidiary, completed the sale of our investment in Jurlique in February 2012. Prior to 2009, when our predecessor entity was a diversified company active in investments, we had provided our Former Executives, and certain other former employees, equity and profit interests in Jurl. In connection with the gain on sale of Jurlique, we distributed, based on the related agreement, approximately $3,667 in 2012 to Jurl’s minority shareholders, including approximately $2,296 to the Former Executives. See Note 6 for further discussion of the sale of Jurlique.
	TimWen lease and management fee payments
	(f)	A wholly-owned subsidiary of Wendy’s leases restaurant facilities from TimWen for the operation of Wendy’s/Tim Hortons combo units in Canada. Wendy’s paid TimWen $6,313, $6,854 and $6,880 under such leases during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which have been included in “Costs of sales.” Wendy’s subleases some of the restaurant facilities to franchisees and they pay TimWen directly. In addition, TimWen paid Wendy’s a management fee under the TimWen joint venture agreement, of $249, $267 and $275 during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which has been included as a reduction to “General and administrative.”
	Other related party transactions
	On March 24, 2014, the Company completed the sale of 40 Company-owned restaurants in the Phoenix, Arizona market to Arizona Restaurant Company, LLC (“ARC”) as part of the Company’s system optimization initiative. John N. Peters, who served as the Company’s Senior Vice President – North America Operations until his retirement on March 10, 2014, is a 10% owner and manager of ARC. Pursuant to an Asset Purchase Agreement dated November 20, 2013 and related transaction documents: (1) the Company sold to ARC substantially all of the assets (other than real property) used in the operation of the restaurants for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $21,000 (including inventory, cash banks and franchise and development fees), subject to adjustment as set forth in the agreement; (2) the Company and ARC entered into lease and sublease agreements with respect to the real property and buildings for the restaurants; and (3) ARC agreed to develop five new restaurants and complete Image Activation remodels at seven existing restaurants following the closing. During the year ended December 28, 2014, the Company recognized $4,677 of royalty revenue and rental income from ARC of which $384 is outstanding as of December 28, 2014 and included in “Accounts and notes receivable.” As of December 28, 2014 the Company had $27 accrued for amounts owed to Mr. Peters in connection with his employment with the Company.
	As part of its overall retention efforts, The Wendy’s Company provided certain of its Former Executives and current and former employees, the opportunity to co-invest with The Wendy’s Company in certain investments. During 2013, The Wendy’s Company and certain of its former management had one remaining co-investment, 280 BT Holdings LLC (“280 BT”), a limited liability company formed to invest in certain operating entities. In early 2014, 280 BT received a liquidating distribution following the dissolution of its last investment. Upon receipt of the liquidating distribution, 280 BT made a final, equivalent distribution to its members in accordance with the terms of its operating agreement. The ownership percentages in 280 BT for the purpose of the distribution and as of December 29, 2013 for The Wendy’s Company, the former officers of The Wendy’s Company and other investors were 80.1%, 11.2% and 8.7%, respectively. The distribution during the first quarter of 2014 to The Wendy’s Company and the former officers of The Wendy’s Company was $22 and $5, respectively. 280 BT did not make any distributions to its members in 2013 or 2012.
	During the third quarter of 2012, Matthew Peltz was appointed to the ARG Holding Corporation Board of Directors. He is not currently receiving compensation as a director of ARG Holding Corporation. A subsidiary of the Company owns 18.5% of the common stock of ARG Holding Corporation. Matthew Peltz is the son of the Company’s Chairman of the Board.

Legal_and_Environmental_Matter

Legal and Environmental Matters	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Loss Contingency [Abstract]
Legal and Environmental Matters	Legal and Environmental Matters
	We are involved in litigation and claims incidental to our current and prior businesses. We provide accruals for such litigation and claims when payment is probable and reasonably estimable. As of December 28, 2014, the Company had accruals for all of its legal and environmental matters aggregating $3,339. We cannot estimate the aggregate possible range of loss due to most proceedings being in preliminary stages, with various motions either yet to be submitted or pending, discovery yet to occur, and significant factual matters unresolved. In addition, most cases seek an indeterminate amount of damages and many involve multiple parties. Predicting the outcomes of settlement discussions or judicial or arbitral decisions is thus inherently difficult. Based on currently available information, including legal defenses available to us, and given the aforementioned accruals and our insurance coverage, we do not believe that the outcome of these legal and environmental matters will have a material effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

Advertising_Costs_and_Funds

Advertising Costs and Funds	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Marketing and Advertising Expense [Abstract]
Advertising Costs and Funds [Text Block]	Advertising Costs and Funds
	We currently participate in two national advertising funds (the “Advertising Funds”) established to collect and administer funds contributed for use in advertising and promotional programs. Contributions to the Advertising Funds are required from both company-owned and franchised restaurants and are based on a percentage of restaurant sales. In addition to the contributions to the various Advertising Funds, company-owned and franchised restaurants make additional contributions to other local and regional advertising programs.
	Restricted assets and related liabilities of the Advertising Funds at December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013 were as follows:
		Year End
		2014			2013
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	15,085		$	22,711
	Accounts and notes receivable	42,717			37,960
	Other assets	7,506			6,512
	Total assets	$	65,308		$	67,183
	Accounts payable	$	3,736		$	2,544
	Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	70,206			70,382
	Member’s deficit	(8,634		)	(5,743		)
	Total liabilities and deficit	$	65,308		$	67,183
	Our advertising expenses in 2014, 2013 and 2012 totaled $73,454, $94,498 and $103,147, respectively.

Geographic_Information

Geographic Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Segments, Geographical Areas [Abstract]
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]	Geographic Information
	The tables below present revenues and properties information by geographic area.
		U.S.		Canada		Other International		Total
	2014
	Revenues	$	1,796,725	$	247,792	$	16,546	$	2,061,063
	Properties	1,232,613		38,538		87		1,271,238
	2013
	Revenues	$	2,213,875	$	255,216	$	18,319	$	2,487,410
	Properties	1,108,219		57,232		36		1,165,487
	2012
	Revenues	$	2,231,270	$	257,750	$	16,222	$	2,505,242
	Properties	1,186,879		63,412		47		1,250,338

Quarterly_Financial_Informatio

Quarterly Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
	The tables below set forth summary unaudited consolidated quarterly financial information for 2014 and 2013. The Company reports on a fiscal year typically consisting of 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Sunday closest to December 31. All of the Company’s fiscal quarters in 2014 and 2013 contained 13 weeks.
		2014 Quarter Ended
		March 30 (a)		29-Jun		September 28 (a)			December 28 (a)
	Revenues	$	523,196	$	523,427	$	512,489		$	501,951
	Cost of sales	374,190		347,780		343,807			335,019
	Operating profit	89,014		63,854		46,923			51,717
	Net income	46,303		29,007		22,830			23,294
	Basic and diluted net income per share (b)	$	0.12	$	0.08	$	0.06		$	0.06
		2013 Quarter Ended
		March 31 (c)		June 30 (c)		September 29 (c)			December 29 (c)
	Revenues	$	603,682	$	650,544	$	640,779		$	592,405
	Cost of sales	460,828		473,298		469,177			436,437
	Operating profit	22,464		56,990		26,810			28,878
	Income (loss) from continuing operations	2,133		12,002		(2,162		)	32,925
	Net loss from discontinued operations	—		—		—			(266		)
	Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	—		222		223			410
	Net income (loss) attributable to The Wendy’s Company	$	2,133	$	12,224	$	(1,939	)	$	33,069
	Basic income (loss) per share attributable to The Wendy’s Company:
	Continuing operations	$	0.01	$	0.03	$	—		$	0.09
	Discontinued operations	—		—		—			—
	Net income (loss)	$	0.01	$	0.03	$	—		$	0.08
	Diluted income (loss) per share attributable to The Wendy’s Company:
	Continuing operations	$	0.01	$	0.03	$	—		$	0.08
	Discontinued operations	—		—		—			—
	Net income (loss)	$	0.01	$	0.03	$	—		$	0.08
	_______________
	(a)	The Company’s consolidated statements of operations were materially impacted by facilities action (income) charges, net and impairment of long-lived assets. The pre-tax impact of facilities action (income) charges, net for the first, third and fourth quarters of 2014 was $(44,033), $7,520 and $6,530, respectively (see Note 2 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of impairment of long-lived assets during the third and fourth quarters of 2014 was $3,408 and $7,245, respectively (see Note 15 for additional information).
	(b)	Basic and diluted net income per share are being presented together since diluted net income per share was the same as basic net income per share for all periods presented (see Note 4 for additional information).
	(c)	The Company’s consolidated statements of operations were materially impacted by facilities action (income) charges, net, impairment of long-lived assets, impairment of goodwill and losses on early extinguishment of debt. The pre-tax impact of facilities action charges (income), net for the first, second, third and fourth quarters of 2013 was $3,038, $6,377, $22,275 and $(20,834), respectively (see Note 2 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of impairment of long-lived assets during the third and fourth quarters of 2013 was $5,327 and $10,552, respectively, (see Note 15 for additional information) and the pre-tax impact of impairment of goodwill during the fourth quarter of 2013 was $9,397 (see Note 8 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of losses on the early extinguishment of debt during the second and fourth quarters of 2013 was $21,019 and $7,544, respectively (see Note 10 for additional information).

Parent_Financial_Statements_Pa

Parent Financial Statements Parent Financial Statements (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block]	THE WENDY’S COMPANY (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
	CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
	(In Thousands)
		December 28,			December 29,
		2014			2013
	ASSETS
	Current assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	35,556		$	179,916
	Amounts due from subsidiaries	212,802			185,695
	Deferred income tax benefit and other current assets	51,990			99,039
	Total current assets	300,348			464,650
	Investments in consolidated subsidiaries	1,572,571			1,687,364
	Deferred income tax benefit	10,879			—
	Total assets	$	1,883,798		$	2,152,014
	LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
	Current liabilities:
	Amounts due to subsidiaries	$	161,466		$	157,372
	Deferred income taxes and other current liabilities	1,555			1,540
	Total current liabilities	163,021			158,912
	Deferred income taxes	—			53,920
	Other liabilities	3,201			9,696
	Stockholders’ equity:
	Common stock, $0.10 par value; 1,500,000 shares authorized;	47,042			47,042
	470,424 shares issued
	Additional paid-in capital	2,826,965			2,794,445
	Accumulated deficit	(445,917		)	(492,215		)
	Common stock held in treasury, at cost	(679,220		)	(409,449		)
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(31,294		)	(10,337		)
	Total stockholders’ equity	1,717,576			1,929,486
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	1,883,798		$	2,152,014
	THE WENDY’S COMPANY (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
	CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
	(In Thousands)
			Year Ended
			December 28, 2014			December 29, 2013				December 30, 2012
	Income:
	Equity in income from continuing operations of subsidiaries		$	113,010		$	21,116			$	29,708
	Costs and expenses:
	General and administrative		10,567			10,381				10,911
	Depreciation and amortization		—			1,272				1,975
	Facilities action charges, net		—			330				5,327
	Impairment of long-lived assets		—			1,830				1,628
	Other expense (income), net		306			(23		)		953
			10,873			13,790				20,794
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes		102,137			7,326				8,914
	Benefit from (provision for) income taxes		19,297			38,427				(3,340		)
	Income from continuing operations		121,434			45,753				5,574
	Equity in (loss) income from discontinued operations of subsidiaries		—			(266		)		1,509
	Net income		$	121,434		$	45,487			$	7,083
	THE WENDY’S COMPANY (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
	CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
	(In Thousands)
		Year Ended
		December 28, 2014			December 29, 2013				December 30, 2012
	Net income	$	121,434		$	45,487			$	7,083
	Other comprehensive (loss) income, net:
	Foreign currency translation adjustment	(18,560		)	(17,000		)		6,096
	Change in unrecognized pension loss, net of income tax (provision) benefit of $(160), $37 and $127, respectively	391			(62		)		(217		)
	Change in unrealized (loss) gain on cash flow hedges, net of income tax benefit (provision) of $1,767 and $(468), respectively	(2,788		)	744				—
	Other comprehensive (loss) income, net	(20,957		)	(16,318		)		5,879
	Comprehensive income	$	100,477		$	29,169			$	12,962
	THE WENDY’S COMPANY (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
	CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
	(In Thousands)
	Year Ended
	December 28,			December 29,				December 30,
	2014			2013				2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	121,434		$	45,487			$	7,083
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Equity in income from operations of subsidiaries	(113,010		)	(20,850		)		(31,217		)
Depreciation and amortization	—			1,272				3,078
Share-based compensation	737			1,552				944
Impairment of long-lived assets	—			1,830				1,628
Deferred income tax	7,213			80,161				(4,118		)
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	(9,363		)	—				—
Amortization of deferred financing costs	—			—				21
Dividends from subsidiaries	210,000			170,000				—
Tax sharing receivable from subsidiaries, net	(16,764		)	(119,249		)		—
Tax sharing payments received from subsidiaries	—			—				37
Other operating transactions with Wendy’s Restaurants, LLC	(13,002		)	4,988				28,733
Other, net	(5,525		)	1,439				1,753
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Other current assets	2,300			10,305				(472		)
Other current liabilities	4,654			(2,040		)		8,643
Net cash provided by operating activities	188,674			174,895				16,113
Cash flows from investing activities:
Other, net	3,148			—				686
Net cash provided by investing activities	3,148			—				686
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayments of long-term debt	—			—				(11,303		)
Repurchases of common stock	(301,216		)	(69,320		)		—
Dividends	(75,117		)	(70,681		)		(39,043		)
Proceeds from stock option exercises	30,788			42,370				7,806
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	9,363			—				—
Other, net	—			—				(48		)
Net cash used in financing activities	(336,182		)	(97,631		)		(42,588		)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	(144,360		)	77,264				(25,789		)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	179,916			102,652				128,441
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	35,556		$	179,916			$	102,652

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Principles of Consolidation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and include all of the Company’s subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The Company reports “Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests,” separately in our consolidated statements of operations.
	The Company participates in two national advertising funds established to collect and administer funds contributed for use in advertising and promotional programs for company-owned and franchised restaurants. The revenue, expenses and cash flows of such advertising funds are not included in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations or consolidated statements of cash flows because the contributions to these advertising funds are designated for specific purposes and the Company acts as an agent, in substance, with regard to these contributions. The assets and liabilities of these funds are reported as “Advertising funds restricted assets” and “Advertising funds restricted liabilities.”
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
Reclassifications, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year presentation to conform to the current year presentation.
Comparability of Prior Year Financial Data, Policy [Policy Text Block]	During the year ended December 28, 2014, the Company began correctly recording rental income and lease expense on a gross basis versus net to properly reflect Wendy’s subleasing of restaurant facilities to franchisees for the operation of Wendy’s/Tim Hortons combo units in Canada. The Company’s previously reported rental income in “Franchise revenues” and lease expense in “Other operating expense, net” for the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012 were both understated by $7,544 and $7,724, respectively. The effect of the offsetting understatements on the consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012 was not material to franchise revenues or other operating expense, net and had no impact on operating profit or net income.
Fiscal Year, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Fiscal Year
	The Company’s fiscal reporting periods consist of 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Sunday closest to December 31 and are referred to herein as (1) “the year ended December 28, 2014” or “2014,” (2) “the year ended December 29, 2013” or “2013,” and (3) “the year ended December 30, 2012” or “2012,” all of which consisted of 52 weeks.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	All highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when acquired are considered cash equivalents. The Company’s cash and cash equivalents principally consist of cash in bank and money market mutual fund accounts and are primarily not in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured accounts.
	We believe that our vulnerability to risk concentrations in our cash equivalents is mitigated by (1) our policies restricting the eligibility, credit quality and concentration limits for our placements in cash equivalents and (2) insurance from the Securities Investor Protection Corporation of up to $500 per account, as well as supplemental private insurance coverage maintained by substantially all of our brokerage firms, to the extent our cash equivalents are held in brokerage accounts.
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Accounts and Notes Receivable
	Accounts and notes receivable consist primarily of royalties, rents and franchise fees due principally from franchisees and credit card receivables. The need for an allowance for doubtful accounts is reviewed on a specific identification basis based upon past due balances and the financial strength of the obligor.
Inventories, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Inventories
	The Company’s inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined in accordance with the first-in, first-out method and consist primarily of restaurant food items and paper supplies.
Properties and Depreciation and Amortization, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Properties and Depreciation and Amortization
	Properties are stated at cost, including internal costs of employees to the extent such employees are dedicated to specific restaurant construction projects, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization of properties is computed principally on the straight-line basis using the following estimated useful lives of the related major classes of properties: 3 to 20 years for office and restaurant equipment, 3 to 15 years for transportation equipment and 7 to 30 years for buildings and improvements. When the Company commits to a plan to cease using certain properties before the end of their estimated useful lives, depreciation expense is accelerated to reflect the use of the assets over their shortened useful lives. Capital leases and leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the terms of the respective leases, including periods covered by renewal options that the Company is reasonably assured of exercising.
	The Company reviews properties for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. If such review indicates an asset group may not be recoverable, an impairment loss is recognized for the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of an asset group to be held and used or over the fair value less cost to sell of an asset to be disposed. Asset groups are primarily comprised of our individual restaurant properties.
	The Company classifies assets as held for sale and ceases depreciation of the assets when there is a plan for disposal of the assets and those assets meet the held for sale criteria. Assets held for sale are included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets” in the consolidated balance sheets.
Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Goodwill
	Goodwill, representing the excess of the cost of an acquired entity over the fair value of the acquired net assets, is not amortized. Goodwill associated with our company-owned restaurants is reduced as a result of restaurant dispositions based on the relative fair values and is included in the carrying value of the restaurant in determining the gain or loss on disposal. If a company-owned restaurant is sold within two years of being acquired from a franchisee, the goodwill associated with the acquisition is written off in its entirety. For goodwill impairment testing purposes, we include two reporting units comprised of our (1) North America company-owned and franchise restaurants and (2) international franchise restaurants. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset may be impaired.
	If the Company determines that impairment may exist, the amount of the impairment loss is measured as the excess, if any, of the carrying amount of the goodwill over its implied fair value. In determining the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill, the Company allocates the fair value of a reporting unit to all of the assets and liabilities of that unit as if the unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was the price paid to acquire the reporting unit. The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the amounts assigned to the assets and liabilities is the implied fair value of goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
	Our fair value estimates are subject to change as a result of many factors including, among others, any changes in our business plans, changing economic conditions and the competitive environment. Should actual cash flows and our future estimates vary adversely from those estimates we use, we may be required to recognize goodwill impairment charges in future years.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
	For impairment testing purposes, the long-lived asset group includes our company-owned restaurant assets and their definite-lived intangible assets, which include favorable leases and reacquired rights under franchise agreements. We review our long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. We assess the recoverability of long-lived assets by comparing the carrying amount of the asset group to future undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated by our individual company-owned restaurants. If the carrying amount of the long-lived asset group is not recoverable on an undiscounted cash flow basis, then impairment is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds its fair value and is included in “Impairment of long-lived assets.” Our restaurant impairment losses principally reflect impairment charges resulting from the deterioration in operating performance of certain company-owned restaurants.
	The Company records losses on remeasuring long-lived assets to fair value upon determination that the assets will be leased and/or subleased to franchisees in connection with the sale or anticipated sale of restaurants. Such losses related to sales or anticipated sales of restaurants not included in our system optimization initiative are recorded to “Impairment of long-lived assets.” Similar losses related to sales or anticipated sales of restaurants in connection with the Company’s announced system optimization initiative are recorded to “Facilities action (income) charges, net.” The fair value of the long-lived assets is based upon discounted cash flows of future anticipated lease and sublease income.
	Our fair value estimates are subject to change as a result of many factors including, among others, any changes in our business plans, changing economic conditions and the competitive environment. Should actual cash flows and our future estimates vary adversely from those estimates we used, we may be required to recognize additional impairment charges in future years.
Other Intangible Assets [Policy Text Block]	Other Intangible Assets
	Definite-lived intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis using the following estimated useful lives of the related classes of intangibles: for favorable leases, the terms of the respective leases, including periods covered by renewal options that the Company is reasonably assured of exercising; 5 years for computer software; 3 to 20 years for reacquired rights under franchise agreements; and 20 years for franchise agreements. Trademarks have an indefinite life and are not amortized.
	The Company reviews definite-lived intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the intangible asset may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment at least annually by comparing their carrying value to fair value; any excess of carrying value over fair value is recognized as an impairment loss. Our estimates in the determination of the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets include the anticipated future revenues of company-owned and franchised restaurants and the resulting cash flows.
Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Investments
	The Company has a 50% share in a partnership in a Canadian restaurant real estate joint venture (“TimWen”) with a subsidiary of Restaurant Brands International Inc., a quick-service restaurant company that owns the Tim Hortons® brand. (Tim Hortons is a registered trademark of The TDL Marks Corporation.) The Company has significant influence over the investee. Such investment is accounted for using the equity method, under which our results of operations include our share of the income of the investee. Investments in limited partnerships and other non-current investments in which the Company does not have significant influence over the investees, which includes our indirect 18.5% interest in Arby’s Restaurant Group, Inc. (“Arby’s”), are recorded at cost with related realized gains and losses reported as income or loss in the period in which the securities are sold or otherwise disposed. Cash distributions and dividends received that are determined to be returns of capital are recorded as a reduction of the carrying value of our investments.
	The difference between the carrying value of our TimWen equity investment and the underlying equity in the historical net assets of the investee is accounted for as if the investee were a consolidated subsidiary. Accordingly, the carrying value difference is amortized over the estimated lives of the assets of the investee to which such difference would have been allocated if the equity investment were a consolidated subsidiary. To the extent the carrying value difference represents goodwill, it is not amortized.
Derivative Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Derivative Instruments
	The Company enters into interest rate swap agreements to manage its exposure to changes in interest rates as well as to maintain an appropriate mix of fixed and variable rate debt. Floating to fixed interest rate swap agreements are accounted for as cash flow hedges. Changes in the fair value of our cash flow hedging instruments are recorded as an adjustment to “Accumulated other comprehensive loss” to the extent of the effectiveness of such hedging instruments and is subsequently reclassified into “Interest expense” in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. Fixed to floating interest rate swap agreements are accounted for as fair value hedges. Changes in the fair value of fair value hedging instruments are recorded as an adjustment to the underlying debt balance being hedged to the extent of the effectiveness of such hedging instruments. Any ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the designated hedging instruments is included in “Other income (expense), net.”
Share-based Compensation, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Share-Based Compensation
	The Company has granted share-based compensation awards to certain employees under several equity plans. The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for an equity award, which include grants of employee stock options and restricted shares, based on the fair value of the award at the date of grant. Share-based compensation expense is recognized net of estimated forfeitures, determined based on historical experience. The Company recognizes share-based compensation expense over the requisite service period unless the awards are subject to performance conditions, in which case they recognize compensation expense over the requisite service period to the extent performance conditions are considered probable. The Company determines the grant date fair value of stock options using a Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model (the “Black-Scholes Model”). The grant date fair value of restricted share awards (“RSAs”), restricted share units (“RSUs”) and performance-based awards are determined using the average of the high and low trading prices of our common stock on the date of grant, unless the awards are subject to market conditions, in which case we use a Monte Carlo simulation model. The Monte Carlo simulation model utilizes multiple input variables to estimate the probability that market conditions will be achieved.
Foreign Currency Translation, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Foreign Currency Translation
	Substantially all of the Company’s foreign operations are in Canada where the functional currency is the Canadian dollar. Financial statements of foreign subsidiaries are prepared in their functional currency and then translated into U.S. dollars. Assets and liabilities are translated at the exchange rate as of the balance sheet date and revenues, costs and expenses are translated at a monthly average exchange rate. Net gains or losses resulting from the translation adjustment are recorded to the “Foreign currency translation adjustment” component of “Accumulated other comprehensive loss.” Gains and losses arising from the impact of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on transactions in foreign currency are included in “General and administrative.”
Income Taxes, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Income Taxes
	The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method. A deferred tax asset or liability is recognized whenever there are (1) future tax effects from temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and (2) operating loss, capital loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to the years in which those differences are expected to be recovered or settled.
	Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent the Company believes these assets will more likely than not be realized. In evaluating the realizability of deferred tax assets, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including the interaction and the timing of future reversals of existing temporary differences, projected future taxable income, recent operating results and tax-planning strategies. When considered necessary, a valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying amount of the deferred tax assets to their anticipated realizable value.
	The Company records uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two-step process whereby we first determine if it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. A tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is then measured for purposes of financial statement recognition as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon being effectively settled.
	Interest accrued for uncertain tax positions is charged to “Interest expense.” Penalties accrued for uncertain tax positions are charged to “General and administrative.”
Revenue Recognition, Multiple-deliverable Arrangements[Policy Text Block]	Restaurant Dispositions
	In connection with the sale of company-owned restaurants to franchisees, the Company typically enters into several agreements, in addition to an asset purchase agreement, with franchisees including franchise, development, relationship and lease agreements. See “Franchised Restaurants” in Item 1 herein, for further information regarding these agreements. The Company typically sells restaurants’ cash, inventory and equipment and retains ownership or the leasehold interest to the real estate to lease and/or sublease to the franchisee. The Company has determined that its restaurant dispositions usually represent multiple-element arrangements, and as such, the cash consideration received is allocated to the separate elements based on their relative selling price. Cash consideration generally includes up-front consideration for the sale of the restaurants, technical assistance fees and development fees and future cash consideration for royalties and lease payments. The Company considers the future lease payments in allocating the initial cash consideration received. The Company obtains third-party evidence to estimate the relative selling price of the stated rent under the lease and/or sublease agreements which is primarily based upon comparable market rents. Based on the Company’s review of the third-party evidence, the Company records favorable or unfavorable lease assets/liabilities with a corresponding offset to the gain or loss on the sale of the restaurants. The cash consideration per restaurant for technical assistance fees and development fees is consistent with the amounts stated in the related franchise agreements which are charged for separate standalone arrangements. Therefore, the Company recognizes the technical assistance and development fees when earned. Future royalty income is also recognized in revenue as earned. See “Revenue Recognition” below further information.
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Revenue Recognition
	“Sales” includes revenues recognized upon delivery of food to the customer at company-owned restaurants and bakery items to our franchisees and others. “Sales” excludes taxes collected from the Company’s customers.
	“Franchise revenues” includes royalties, franchise fees and rental income. Royalties from franchised restaurants are based on a percentage of net sales of the franchised restaurant and are recognized as earned. Initial franchise fees and development fees are recorded as deferred income when received and are recognized as revenue when a franchised restaurant is opened as all material services and conditions related to the franchise fee have been substantially performed upon the restaurant opening. Initial franchise fees received in connection with sales of company-owned restaurants to franchisees and renewal franchise fees are recognized as revenue when the license agreements are signed and the fee is paid since there are no material services and conditions related to the franchise fees. Franchise fee deposits are forfeited and recognized as revenue upon the termination of the related commitments to open new franchised restaurants. Rental income from properties owned and leased by the Company and leased or subleased to franchisees is recognized on a straight-line basis over the respective operating lease terms. Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts related to the leased and/or subleased properties are amortized to rental income on a straight-line basis over the remaining term of the leases. See “Leases” below for further information on rental income and favorable and unfavorable lease amounts.
Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Cost of Sales
	Cost of sales includes food and paper, restaurant labor and occupancy, advertising and other operating costs.
Vendor Incentives, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Vendor Incentives
	The Company receives incentives from certain vendors. These incentives are recognized as earned and are classified as a reduction of “Cost of sales.”
Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Advertising Costs
	The Company incurs various advertising costs, including contributions to certain advertising cooperatives based upon a percentage of net sales by company-owned restaurants. All advertising costs are expensed as incurred, with the exception of media development costs that are expensed beginning in the month that the advertisement is first communicated, and are included in “Cost of sales.”
Self-insurance, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Self-Insurance
	The Company is self-insured for most workers’ compensation losses and health care claims and purchases insurance for general liability and automotive liability losses, all subject to a $500 per occurrence retention or deductible limit. The Company provides for their estimated cost to settle both known claims and claims incurred but not yet reported. Liabilities associated with these claims are estimated, in part, by considering the frequency and severity of historical claims, both specific to us, as well as industry-wide loss experience and other actuarial assumptions. We determine our insurance obligations with the assistance of actuarial firms. Since there are many estimates and assumptions involved in recording insurance liabilities and in the case of workers’ compensation a significant period of time elapses before the ultimate resolution of claims, differences between actual future events and prior estimates and assumptions could result in adjustments to these liabilities.
Leases, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Leases
	The Company operates restaurants that are located on sites owned by us and sites leased by us from third parties. In addition, the Company owns and leases sites from third parties, which it leases and/or subleases to franchisees. At inception, each lease or sublease is evaluated to determine whether the lease will be accounted for as an operating or capital lease, including the determination of direct financing leases based on its terms. When determining the lease term, we include option periods for which failure to renew the lease imposes a significant economic detriment. For properties used to operate company-owned restaurants, the primary economic detriment relates to the existence of unamortized leasehold improvements which might be impaired if we choose not to exercise the available renewal options. The lease term for properties leased or subleased to franchisees, is determined based upon the economic detriment to the franchisee and includes consideration of the length of the franchise agreement, historical performance of the restaurant and the existence of bargain renewal options.
	For operating leases, minimum lease payments or receipts, including minimum scheduled rent increases, are recognized as rent expense or income, as applicable, on a straight line basis (“Straight-Line Rent”) over the applicable lease terms. Lease terms are generally initially between 15 and 20 years and, in most cases, provide for rent escalations and renewal options. The term used for Straight-Line Rent is calculated initially from the date of possession of the leased premises through the expected lease termination date. We recognize rent expense or income, as applicable, from the possession date to the restaurant opening date. There is a period under certain lease agreements referred to as a rent holiday (“Rent Holiday”) that generally begins on the possession date and ends on the rent commencement date. During a Rent Holiday, no cash rent payments are typically due under the terms of the lease; however, expense or income, as applicable, is recorded for that period on a straight-line basis.
	For leases that contain rent escalations, we record the rent payable or receivable, as applicable, during the lease term, as determined above, on the straight-line basis over the term of the lease (including the Rent Holiday beginning upon possession of the premises), and record the excess of the Straight-Line Rent over the minimum rents paid or received as a deferred lease liability or asset which is included in “Other liabilities” or “Other assets,” as applicable. Certain leases contain provisions, referred to as contingent rent (“Contingent Rent”), that require additional rental payments based upon restaurant sales volume. Contingent Rent is recognized each period as the liability is incurred or the asset is earned.
	For direct financing leases, the Company records its investment in properties leased to franchisees on a net basis, which is comprised of its gross investment less unearned income. The current and long-term portions of our net investment in direct financing leases are included in “Accounts and notes receivable” and “Other assets,” respectively. Unearned income is recognized as interest income over the lease term and is included in “Interest expense.”
	Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts are recorded as components of “Other intangible assets” and “Other liabilities,” respectively. Favorable and unfavorable lease amounts are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the leases. When the expected term of a lease is determined to be shorter than the original amortization period, the favorable or unfavorable lease balance associated with the lease is adjusted to reflect the revised lease term.
	Lease expense, rental income and favorable and unfavorable lease amortization is recognized in the consolidated statements of operations based on the nature of the underlying lease. Amounts related to leases for company-owned restaurants are recorded to “Cost of sales.” Lease expense, including any related amortization, for leased properties that are subsequently subleased to franchisees is recorded to “Other operating expense, net.” Rental income, including any related amortization, for owned and subleased properties to franchisees is recorded to “Franchise revenues.” Amounts related to leases for corporate offices and equipment are recorded to “General and administrative.”
	Management makes certain estimates and assumptions regarding each new lease and sublease agreement, renewal and amendment, including, but not limited to, property values, market rents, property lives, discount rates and probable term, all of which can impact (1) the classification and accounting for a lease or sublease as operating or capital, including direct financing, (2) the Rent Holiday and escalations in payment that are taken into consideration when calculating Straight-Line Rent, (3) the term over which leasehold improvements for each restaurant are amortized and (4) the values and lives of favorable and unfavorable leases. The amount of depreciation and amortization, interest and rent expense and income reported would vary if different estimates and assumptions were used.
Concentration of Risk, Policy [Text Block]	Concentration of Risk
	Wendy’s had no customers which accounted for 10% or more of consolidated revenues in 2014, 2013 or 2012. As of December 28, 2014, Wendy’s had one main in-line distributor of food, packaging and beverage products, excluding produce and breads, that serviced approximately 57% of its company-owned and franchised restaurants and three additional in-line distributors that, in the aggregate, serviced approximately 36% of its company-owned and franchised restaurants. We believe that our vulnerability to risk concentrations related to significant vendors and sources of its raw materials is mitigated as we believe that there are other vendors who would be able to service our requirements. However, if a disruption of service from any of our main in-line distributors was to occur, we could experience short-term increases in our costs while distribution channels were adjusted.
	Wendy’s restaurants are principally located throughout the U.S. and to a lesser extent, in 28 foreign countries and U.S. territories with the largest number in Canada. Wendy’s restaurants are located in 50 states and the District of Columbia, with the largest number in Florida, Ohio, Texas, Georgia, California, Michigan, Pennsylvania and North Carolina. Because our restaurant operations are generally located throughout the U.S. and to a much lesser extent, Canada and other foreign countries and U. S. territories, we believe the risk of geographic concentration is not significant. We could be adversely affected by changing consumer preferences resulting from concerns over nutritional or safety aspects of beef, poultry, french fries or other products we sell or the effects of food safety events or disease outbreaks. Our exposure to foreign exchange risk is primarily related to fluctuations in the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar for our Canadian operations. However, our exposure to Canadian dollar foreign currency risk is mitigated by the fact that less than 10% of Wendy’s restaurants are in Canada.
New Accounting Standards and New Accounting Standards Adopted, Policy [Policy Text Block]	New Accounting Standards
	In June 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued an amendment to clarify that a performance target that affects vesting and which could be achieved after the requisite service period should be treated as a performance condition and therefore should not be reflected in estimating the grant-date fair value of the award. The Company does not expect the amendment, which is effective commencing with our 2016 fiscal year, to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued a new standard on revenue recognition. The new standard outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The amendment is effective commencing with our 2017 fiscal year and requires enhanced disclosures. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.
	In April 2014, the FASB issued an amendment that modifies the criteria for reporting a discontinued operation. The amendment changes the definition of a discontinued operation including the implementation guidance and requires expanded disclosures. The amendment is effective, prospectively, commencing with our 2015 fiscal year. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.
	New Accounting Standards Adopted
	In July 2013, the FASB issued an amendment that requires companies to present unrecognized tax benefits as a reduction to deferred tax assets when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss or a tax credit carryforward exists, with limited exceptions. The Company adopted this amendment during the first quarter of 2014. See Note 12 for more information.

Facilities_Action_Income_Charg1

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block]
		Year Ended
		2014			2013			2012
	System optimization initiative	$	(42,026	)	$	4,901		$	—
	G&A realignment	12,926			—			—
	Facilities relocation and other transition costs	—			4,574			28,990
	Breakfast discontinuation	—			1,118			10,569
	Arby’s transaction related costs	—			263			1,472
		$	(29,100	)	$	10,856		$	41,031
System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block]	The following is a summary of the activity recorded under our system optimization initiative:
		Year Ended						Total Incurred Since Inception
		2014			2013
	Gain on sales of restaurants, net	$	(69,631	)	$	(46,667	)	$	(116,298	)
	System Optimization Remeasurement (a)	8,628			20,506			29,134
	Accelerated depreciation and amortization (b)	507			16,907			17,414
	Severance and related employee costs	7,608			9,650			17,258
	Professional fees	3,424			2,389			5,813
	Share-based compensation (c)	3,760			1,253			5,013
	Other	3,678			863			4,541
	Total system optimization initiative	$	(42,026	)	$	4,901		$	(37,125	)
	_______________
	(a)	Includes remeasurement of land, buildings, leasehold improvements and favorable lease assets at all company-owned restaurants included in our system optimization initiative. See Note 11 for more information on non-recurring fair value measurements.
	(b)	Primarily includes accelerated amortization of previously acquired franchise rights related to company-owned restaurants in territories that were sold in connection with our system optimization initiative.
	(c)	Represents incremental share-based compensation resulting from the modification of stock options and performance-based awards in connection with the termination of employees under our system optimization initiative.
	Gain on Sales of Restaurants, Net
		Year Ended
		2014			2013
	Number of restaurants sold to franchisees	203			244
	Proceeds from sales of restaurants	$	107,833		$	130,154
	Net assets sold (a)	(46,874		)	(60,895		)
	Goodwill related to sales of restaurants	(14,688		)	(20,578		)
	Net favorable (unfavorable) lease assets (liabilities) (b)	28,105			(57		)
	Other (c)	(3,465		)	(1,957		)
		70,911			46,667
	Post-closing adjustments on sales of restaurants	(1,280		)	—
	Gain on sales of restaurants, net	$	69,631		$	46,667
	_______________
	(a)	Net assets sold consisted primarily of cash, inventory and equipment.
	(b)	During 2014 and 2013, the Company recorded favorable lease assets of $53,750 and $37,749, respectively, and unfavorable lease liabilities of $25,645 and $37,806, respectively, as a result of leasing and/or subleasing land, buildings, and/or leasehold improvements to franchisees, in connection with sales of restaurants.
	(c)	2014 includes a deferred gain of $1,995 on the sale of eight Canadian restaurants to a franchisee, as a result of Wendy’s providing a guarantee to a lender on behalf of the franchisee. This deferred gain is included in “Other liabilities.” See Note 20 for further information.
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block]	The tables below present a rollforward of our accrual for our system optimization initiative, which is included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities.”
			Balance			Charges			Payments			Balance
			29-Dec-13									28-Dec-14
	Severance and related employee costs		$	7,051		$	7,608		$	(12,424	)	$	2,235
	Professional fees		137			3,424			(3,415		)	146
	Other		260			3,678			(3,515		)	423
			$	7,448		$	14,710		$	(19,354	)	$	2,804
			Balance			Charges			Payments			Balance
			30-Dec-12									29-Dec-13
	Severance and related employee costs		$	—		$	9,650		$	(2,599	)	$	7,051
	Professional fees		—			2,389			(2,252		)	137
	Other		—			863			(603		)	260
			$	—		$	12,902		$	(5,454	)	$	7,448
Disclosure of Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Table Text Block]	Assets Held for Sale
		Year End
		2014			2013
	Number of restaurants classified as held for sale	102			181
	Net assets held for sale	$	24,416		$	29,630
G&A Realignment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block]	The following is a summary of the activity recorded under our G&A realignment plan:
			Year Ended
			2014
	Severance and related employee costs		$	11,917
	Recruitment and relocation costs		209
	Other		88
			12,214
	Share-based compensation (a)		712
	Total G&A realignment		$	12,926
	_______________
	(a)	Represents incremental share-based compensation resulting from the modification of stock options and performance-based awards in connection with the termination of employees under our G&A realignment plan.
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block]	The table below presents a rollforward of our accrual for our G&A realignment plan, which is included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities.”
			Balance			Charges			Payments			Balance
			29-Dec-13									December 28,
												2014
	Severance and related employee costs		$	—		$	11,917		$	(308	)	$	11,609
	Recruitment and relocation costs		—			209			(60		)	149
	Other		—			88			(83		)	5
			$	—		$	12,214		$	(451	)	$	11,763
Facilities Relocation and Other Transition Costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block]
			Year Ended						Total Incurred Since Inception
			2013			2012
	Severance, retention and other payroll costs		$	1,856		$	9,952		$	17,153
	Relocation costs		1,898			5,222			7,120
	Atlanta facility closure costs		337			4,541			4,878
	Consulting and professional fees		128			4,928			5,056
	Other		355			2,126			2,495
			4,574			26,769			36,702
	Accelerated depreciation expense		—			1,921			2,118
	Share-based compensation		—			300			271
	Total		$	4,574		$	28,990		$	39,091
	The table below presents a rollforward of our accruals for facilities relocation and other transition costs during 2013, which were included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” and “Other liabilities.”
			Balance			Charges			Payments			Balance
			30-Dec-12									29-Dec-13
	Severance, retention and other payroll costs		$	4,121		$	1,856		$	(5,038	)	$	939
	Relocation costs		500			1,898			(2,398		)	—
	Atlanta facility closure costs		4,170			337			(1,733		)	2,774
	Consulting and professional fees		80			128			(208		)	—
	Other		9			355			(364		)	—
			$	8,880		$	4,574		$	(9,741	)	$	3,713

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions_

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Pisces Acquisition [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]	The table below presents the allocation of the total purchase price, including closing adjustments, to the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date.
	Total purchase price paid in cash	$	18,915
	Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
	Cash	55
	Inventories	149
	Properties	12,485
	Deferred taxes and other assets	1,773
	Acquired territory rights (a)	18,390
	Favorable ground leases	222
	Capitalized lease obligations	(14,394		)
	Deferred vendor incentives	(382		)
	Unfavorable leases	(992		)
	Other liabilities	(952		)
	Total identifiable net assets	16,354
	Goodwill (b)	$	2,561
	_______________
	(a)	The acquired territory rights had a weighted average amortization period of 13 years. Due to the subsequent sale of this territory, we accelerated the amortization through the date of sale.
	(b)	This goodwill was not deductible or amortizable for income tax purposes. In addition, the goodwill was disposed of as a result of the subsequent sale of this territory.
Double Cheese Acquisition [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]	The table below presents the allocation of the total purchase price to the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date.
	Total purchase price paid in cash	$	19,181
	Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
	Cash	27
	Inventories	163
	Properties	12,753
	Deferred taxes and other assets	190
	Acquired territory rights (a)	2,640
	Favorable ground leases	1,147
	Capitalized lease obligations	(948		)
	Deferred vendor incentives	(248		)
	Unfavorable leases	(531		)
	Other liabilities	(727		)
	Total identifiable net assets	14,466
	Goodwill (b)	$	4,715
	_______________
	(a)	The acquired territory rights had a weighted average amortization period of 13 years. Due to the sale of this territory, we accelerated the amortization through the date of sale.
	(b)	This goodwill was partially amortizable for income tax purposes. In addition, the goodwill was disposed of as a result of the subsequent sale of this territory.

Income_Loss_Per_Share_Tables

Income (Loss) Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of income (loss) amounts attributable to parent used to calculate basic and diluted income (loss) per share	Basic income (loss) per share for 2014, 2013 and 2012 was computed by dividing income (loss) amounts attributable to The Wendy’s Company by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Income (loss) amounts attributable to The Wendy’s Company used to calculate basic and diluted income (loss) per share were as follows:
		Year Ended
		2014			2013			2012
	Amounts attributable to The Wendy’s Company:
	Income from continuing operations	$	121,434		$	45,753		$	5,574
	Net (loss) income from discontinued operations	—			(266		)	1,509
	Net income	$	121,434		$	45,487		$	7,083
Number of shares used to calculate basic and diluted income per share	The weighted average number of shares used to calculate basic and diluted income (loss) per share were as follows:
		Year Ended
		2014		2013			2012
	Common stock:
	Weighted average basic shares outstanding	370,160		392,585			390,275
	Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted shares	6,022		6,095			1,865
	Weighted average diluted shares outstanding	376,182		398,680			392,140

Cash_and_Receivables_Tables

Cash and Receivables (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Cash and Receivables [Abstract]
Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block]
			Year End
			2014			2013
	Cash and cash equivalents
	Cash		$	205,826		$	174,278
	Cash equivalents		61,450			405,874
			$	267,276		$	580,152
	Restricted cash equivalents
	Current (a)
	Collateral supporting letters of credit		$	16,843		$	18,593
	Trust for termination costs for former Wendy’s executives		168			168
	Other		160			155
			$	17,171		$	18,916
	Non-current (b)
	Trust for termination costs for former Wendy’s executives		$	2,068		$	2,969
	_______________
	(a)	Included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets.”
	(b)	Included in “Other assets.”
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block]
			Year End
			2014			2013
	Accounts and Notes Receivable
	Current
	Accounts receivable:
	Franchisees		$	51,705		$	54,628
	Other		19,970			10,952
			71,675			65,580
	Notes receivable from franchisees (a) (b)		4,171			864
			75,846			66,444
	Allowance for doubtful accounts		(2,488		)	(3,559		)
			$	73,358		$	62,885
	Non-Current (c)
	Notes receivable from franchisees (a)		$	4,940		$	5,568
	Allowance for doubtful accounts		(250		)	(275		)
			$	4,690		$	5,293
	_______________
	(a)	Includes $3,520 and $414 of notes receivable from franchisees received in connection with the sale of company-owned restaurants, which are included in current and non-current notes receivable, respectively, as of December 28, 2014. See Note 3 for further information.
	Also, includes $266 and $2,179 of notes receivable from a franchisee in connection with the termination of our investment in a joint venture in Japan, which are included in current and non-current notes receivable, respectively, as of December 28, 2014 and $2,997 which was included in non-current notes receivable as of December 29, 2013. See Note 6 for further information.
	(b)	Includes the current portion of direct financing lease receivables of $193 and $226 as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively. See Note 19 for further information.
	(c)	Included in “Other assets.”
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Table Text Block]	The following is an analysis of the allowance for doubtful accounts:
			Year End
			2014			2013			2012
	Balance at beginning of year:
	Current		$	3,559		$	6,321		$	4,053
	Non-current		275			2,881			963
	Provision for doubtful accounts:
	Franchisees and other		(1,004		)	(574		)	670
	Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries		(92		)	(4,794		)	(28		)
	Breakfast notes receivable fully reserved (see Note 2)		—			—			3,544
	Balance at end of year:
	Current		2,488			3,559			6,321
	Non-current		250			275			2,881
	Total		$	2,738		$	3,834		$	9,202

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Schedule of Cost and Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]	The following is a summary of the carrying value of our investments:
		Year End
		2014				2013
	Equity investment in TimWen	$	69,790			$	79,810
	Cost investments	4,264				3,387
		$	74,054			$	83,197
TimWen [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]	Presented below is activity related to our portion of TimWen included in our consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of operations as of and for the years ended December 28, 2014, December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012.
			Year Ended
			2014				2013			2012
	Balance at beginning of period		$	79,810			$	89,370		$	91,742
	Equity in earnings for the period		12,802				13,793			13,680
	Amortization of purchase price adjustments (a)		(2,626		)		(2,981		)	(3,129		)
			10,176				10,812			10,551
	Distributions received		(13,896		)		(14,116		)	(15,274		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustment included in		(6,300		)		(6,256		)	2,351
	“Other comprehensive (loss) income, net”
	Balance at end of period		$	69,790			$	79,810		$	89,370
	_______________
	(a)	Based upon an average original aggregate life of 21 years.
Schedule of Summarized Financial Information of Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]	Presented below is a summary of the financial information of TimWen, including the balance sheets as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013 and certain income statement information for the years ended December 28, 2014, December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012. The summary balance sheet financial information does not distinguish between current and long-term assets and liabilities.
			Year End
			2014				2013
	Balance sheet information:
	Properties		$	56,952			$	64,520
	Cash and cash equivalents		3,588				3,339
	Accounts receivable		2,663				2,924
	Other		2,105				2,268
			$	65,308			$	73,051
	Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		$	1,995			$	1,127
	Other liabilities		6,158				7,256
	Partners’ equity		57,155				64,668
			$	65,308			$	73,051
			Year Ended
			2014				2013			2012
	Income statement information:
	Revenues		$	36,604			$	38,751		$	39,702
	Income before income taxes and net income		25,604				27,586			27,377

Properties_Tables

Properties (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
		Year End
		2014			2013
	Owned:
	Land	$	384,148		$	384,847
	Buildings and improvements	505,218			454,805
	Office, restaurant and transportation equipment	428,469			389,161
	Leasehold improvements	365,441			374,586
	Leased:
	Capital leases (a)	44,604			36,126
		1,727,880			1,639,525
	Accumulated depreciation and amortization (b)	(456,642		)	(474,038		)
		$	1,271,238		$	1,165,487
	_______________
	(a)	These assets principally include buildings and improvements.
	(b)	Includes $13,151 and $14,911 of accumulated amortization related to capital leases at December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively.

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangible_1

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]	Goodwill activity for 2014 and 2013 was as follows:
			Year End
			2014				2013
	Balance at beginning of year		$	842,544			$	876,201
	Restaurant dispositions (a)		(27,571		)		(20,578		)
	Restaurant acquisitions		11,455				—
	Impairment		—				(9,397		)
	Currency translation adjustment and other, net		(3,866		)		(3,682		)
	Balance at end of year		$	822,562			$	842,544
	_______________
	(a)	During 2014, in connection with the Company’s plan to sell all of its company-owned restaurants in Canada to franchisees as part of its ongoing system optimization initiative, goodwill of $11,574 was reclassified to assets held for sale, of which $2,035 was disposed of as a result of the sale of 29 Canadian restaurants. See Note 2 for further information.
Schedule Of Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]	The following is a summary of the components of other intangible assets and the related amortization expense:
		Year End 2014										Year End 2013
		Cost				Accumulated Amortization				Net		Cost		Accumulated Amortization			Net
	Indefinite-lived:
	Trademarks	$	903,000			$	—			$	903,000	$	903,000	$	—		$	903,000
	Definite-lived:
	Franchise agreements	350,802				(104,596		)		246,206		352,339		(88,281		)	264,058
	Favorable leases	192,854				(43,231		)		149,623		140,619		(41,625		)	98,994
	Reacquired rights under franchise agreements	8,685				(1,109		)		7,576		23,065		(21,219		)	1,846
	Computer software	85,170				(40,210		)		44,960		68,665		(30,783		)	37,882
		$	1,540,511			$	(189,146	)		$	1,351,365	$	1,487,688	$	(181,908	)	$	1,305,780
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
	Aggregate amortization expense:
	Actual for fiscal year (a):
	2012	$	32,713
	2013	55,516
	2014	42,300
	Estimate for fiscal year:
	2015	$	41,608
	2016	38,702
	2017	37,472
	2018	35,422
	2019	31,416
	Thereafter	263,745
	_______________
	(a)	Includes $1,399, $792 and $1,757 of impairment charges related to other intangible assets in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Also, 2014 and 2013 include System Optimization Remeasurement of $2,211 and $1,678, respectively, and accelerated amortization on previously acquired franchise rights in territories sold as a part of our system optimization initiative of $474 and $16,907, respectively.

Accrued_Expenses_and_Other_Cur1

Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities Accrued Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Accrued Expenses [Abstract]
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block]
		Year End
		2014		2013
	Accrued compensation and related benefits	$	43,139	$	68,394
	Accrued taxes	23,581		21,791
	Accrued pension (a)	12,781		13,513
	Other	61,175		56,402
		$	140,676	$	160,100
	_______________
	(a)	Represents a liability resulting from our company-owned bakery’s withdrawal from a multiemployer pension plan in the fourth quarter of 2013. See Note 18 for more information.

LongTerm_Debt_Tables

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-term debt	Long-term debt consisted of the following:
		Year End
		2014			2013
	Term A Loans, due in 2018 (a)	$	541,733		$	570,625
	Term B Loans, due in 2019 (a)	759,758			767,452
	7% debentures, due in 2025 (b)	85,853			84,666
	Capital lease obligations, due through 2042	60,799			40,732
	Other	—			353
		1,448,143			1,463,828
	Less amounts payable within one year	(53,777		)	(38,543		)
	Total long-term debt	$	1,394,366		$	1,425,285
	Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, excluding the effect of purchase accounting adjustments, as of December 28, 2014 were as follows:
	Fiscal Year
	2015		$	53,777
	2016		59,117
	2017		66,290
	2018		397,364
	2019		731,060
	Thereafter		154,682
			$	1,462,290
	_______________
	(a)	On May 15, 2012, Wendy’s entered into a Credit Agreement, as amended (the “Credit Agreement”) which included, among other instruments, a senior secured term loan facility of $1,125,000 (“Term B Loans”). The Term B Loans were issued at 99.0% of the principal amount, representing an original issue discount of 1.0% resulting in net proceeds of $1,113,750. The discount of $11,250 was accreted and the related charge included in “Interest expense” through the subsequent refinancing described below. During the year ended December 30, 2012, Wendy’s incurred $15,566 in costs related to the Credit Agreement, which were amortized to “Interest expense” through the subsequent refinancing described below utilizing the effective interest rate method. The Credit Agreement replaced the $650,000 credit agreement and the amended senior secured term loan (the “2010 Term Loan”) executed in 2010.
	On May 16, 2013, Wendy’s amended and restated the Credit Agreement (the “Restated Credit Agreement”). The Restated Credit Agreement is comprised of (1) a $350,000 senior secured term loan facility (“Term A Loans”) which will mature on May 15, 2018 and bears interest at the Eurodollar Rate (as defined in the Restated Credit Agreement) plus 2.25%, (2) $769,375 Term B Loans which will mature on May 15, 2019 and bear interest at the Eurodollar Rate plus 2.50% with a floor of 0.75% and (3) a $200,000 senior secured revolving credit facility which will mature on May 15, 2018. The proceeds from the Term A Loans were used to refinance a portion of our existing Term B Loans. As a result of this refinancing, Wendy’s incurred a loss on the early extinguishment of debt of $21,019 during the second quarter of 2013 which consisted of the write-off of the unaccreted discount on Term B Loans and the deferred costs associated with the Credit Agreement, as illustrated in the table below. The Restated Credit Agreement also contains provisions for an uncommitted increase of up to $275,000 principal amount of the Term B Loans subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions. The revolving credit facility includes a sub-facility for the issuance of up to $70,000 of letters of credit and allows for liens in the form of cash collateralized letters of credit up to an additional $40,000. The obligations under the Restated Credit Agreement are secured by substantially all of the non-real estate assets and stock of Wendy’s and its domestic subsidiaries (other than certain unrestricted subsidiaries) and 65% of the stock of certain of its foreign subsidiaries in each case subject to certain limitations and exceptions.
	On September 24, 2013, Wendy’s entered into an amendment (the “Amendment”) to its Restated Credit Agreement to borrow an aggregate principal amount of up to $225,000 of additional Term A Loans (“Incremental Term Loans”). The Amendment does not contain any material changes to existing covenants or other terms of the Restated Credit Agreement, except as described in the preceding sentence. On October 24, 2013, Wendy’s borrowed $225,000 of Incremental Term Loans under the Amendment.
	The Term B Loans, Term A Loans and Incremental Term Loans (collectively, the “Term Loans”) are payable in quarterly installments which commenced on December 31, 2012, September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2013, respectively, with the remaining balances payable upon maturity. In addition, the Term Loans require prepayments of principal amounts resulting from certain events and excess cash flow on an annual basis from Wendy’s as defined under the Restated Credit Agreement. An excess cash flow payment was not required for fiscal 2014, 2013 or 2012. An unused commitment fee of 50 basis points per annum is payable quarterly on the average unused amount of the revolving credit facility until the maturity date. During the third quarter of 2013, Wendy’s transitioned the security for all of its outstanding letters of credit from the revolving credit facility to cash collateral. Therefore, as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, there were no amounts outstanding under the revolving credit facility. As of December 28, 2014, the Company had outstanding cash collateralized letters of credit with various parties of $16,843. The interest rates on Term A Loans and Term B Loans were 2.41% and 3.25%, respectively, as of December 28, 2014.
	During the year ended December 29, 2013, Wendy’s incurred $7,961 in costs related to the Restated Credit Agreement and the Amendment, which are being amortized to “Interest expense” through the maturity of the Term Loans utilizing the effective interest rate method. Proceeds from the Incremental Term Loans, plus cash on hand, were used to redeem all amounts outstanding on the aggregate principal amount of the Wendy’s 6.20% Senior Notes due in 2014 (the “6.20% Senior Notes”) at a price equal to 103.8%, as defined in the 6.20% Senior Notes and accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. In connection with the redemption of the 6.20% Senior Notes, Wendy’s terminated the related interest rate swaps with notional amounts totaling $225,000 which had been designated as fair value hedges. See Note 11 for more information on the interest rate swaps. As a result, Wendy’s recognized a loss on the early extinguishment of debt of $7,544 during the fourth quarter of 2013 which consisted of (1) a premium payment, as defined in the 6.20% Senior Notes, (2) the remaining fair value adjustment previously recorded in connection with the Wendy’s merger, partially offset by (3) a benefit from the cumulative effect of our fair value hedges, as illustrated in the table below.
	During the year ended December 30, 2012, proceeds from the Term B Loans were used (1) to repay all amounts outstanding under the 2010 Term Loan, (2) to redeem the Wendy’s Restaurants 10.00% Senior Notes due 2016 (the “Senior Notes”) in the amounts of $440,775 aggregate principal at a redemption price of 107.5% of the principal amount in July 2012 and to purchase $124,225 aggregate principal at a purchase price of 108.125% of the principal amount in May 2012, both plus accrued and unpaid interest and (3) to pay substantially all of the Credit Agreement fees and expenses.
	As a result of the refinancings described above, the Company incurred losses on the early extinguishment of debt as follows:
		Year End
		2013			2012
	Unaccreted discount on Term B Loans	$	9,561		$	—
	Deferred costs associated with the Credit Agreement	11,458			—
	Unaccreted fair value adjustment associated with the 6.20% Senior Notes	3,168			—
	Benefit from cumulative effect of the fair value hedges	(4,063		)	—
	Premium payment to redeem/purchase the 6.20% Senior Notes and the Senior Notes, respectively	8,439			43,151
	Unaccreted discount on the Senior Notes	—			9,272
	Deferred costs associated with the Senior Notes	—			12,433
	Unaccreted discount on the 2010 Term Loan	—			1,695
	Deferred costs associated with the 2010 Term Loan	—			8,525
	Loss on early extinguishment of debt	$	28,563		$	75,076
	The affirmative and negative covenants in the Restated Credit Agreement include, among others, preservation of corporate existence; payment of taxes; maintenance of insurance; and limitations on: indebtedness (including guarantee obligations of other indebtedness); liens; mergers, consolidations, liquidations and dissolutions; sales of assets; dividends and other payments in respect of capital stock; investments; payments of certain indebtedness; transactions with affiliates; changes in fiscal year; negative pledge clauses and clauses restricting subsidiary distributions; and material changes in lines of business. The financial covenants contained in the Restated Credit Agreement are (1) a consolidated interest coverage ratio and (2) a consolidated senior secured leverage ratio. Wendy’s was in compliance with the covenants of the Restated Credit Agreement as of December 28, 2014. The covenants generally do not restrict The Wendy’s Company or any of its subsidiaries that are not subsidiaries of Wendy’s.
	(b)	Wendy’s 7% debentures are unsecured and were reduced to fair value in connection with the Wendy’s merger based on their outstanding principal of $100,000 and an effective interest rate of 8.6%. The fair value adjustment is being accreted and the related charge included in “Interest expense” until the debentures mature. These debentures contain covenants that restrict the incurrence of indebtedness secured by liens and certain capitalized lease transactions. Wendy’s was in compliance with these covenants as of December 28, 2014.
Aggregate maturities of long-term debt [Table Text Block]	Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, excluding the effect of purchase accounting adjustments, as of December 28, 2014 were as follows:
	Fiscal Year
	2015		$	53,777
	2016		59,117
	2017		66,290
	2018		397,364
	2019		731,060
	Thereafter		154,682
			$	1,462,290
Loss on early extinguishment of debt [Table Text Block]	As a result of the refinancings described above, the Company incurred losses on the early extinguishment of debt as follows:
		Year End
		2013			2012
	Unaccreted discount on Term B Loans	$	9,561		$	—
	Deferred costs associated with the Credit Agreement	11,458			—
	Unaccreted fair value adjustment associated with the 6.20% Senior Notes	3,168			—
	Benefit from cumulative effect of the fair value hedges	(4,063		)	—
	Premium payment to redeem/purchase the 6.20% Senior Notes and the Senior Notes, respectively	8,439			43,151
	Unaccreted discount on the Senior Notes	—			9,272
	Deferred costs associated with the Senior Notes	—			12,433
	Unaccreted discount on the 2010 Term Loan	—			1,695
	Deferred costs associated with the 2010 Term Loan	—			8,525
	Loss on early extinguishment of debt	$	28,563		$	75,076
Pledged Assets [Abstract]
Pledged Assets [Table Text Block]	The following is a summary of the Company’s assets pledged as collateral for certain debt:
		Year End
		2014
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	167,485
	Accounts and notes receivable (including long-term)	68,464
	Inventories	8,807
	Properties	272,505
	Goodwill	710,710
	Other intangible assets	1,201,742
	Other assets (including long-term)	30,645
		$	2,460,358

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block]	The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments at December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013:
		December 28,				December 29,
		2014				2013
		Carrying		Fair		Carrying		Fair		Fair Value
		Amount		Value		Amount		Value		Measurements
	Financial assets
	Cash equivalents	$	61,450	$	61,450	$	405,874	$	405,874	Level 1
	Non-current cost method investments (a)	4,264		147,760		3,387		130,433		Level 3
	Cash flow hedges (b)	—		—		1,212		1,212		Level 2
	Financial liabilities
	Cash flow hedges (b)	3,343		3,343		—		—		Level 2
	Term A Loans, due in 2018 (c)	541,733		540,717		570,625		569,555		Level 2
	Term B Loans, due in 2019 (c)	759,758		752,160		767,452		767,452		Level 2
	7% debentures, due in 2025 (c)	85,853		104,250		84,666		98,250		Level 2
	Guarantees of franchisee loan	968		968		884		884		Level 3
	obligations (d)
	_______________
	(a)	The fair value of our indirect investment in Arby’s is based on applying a multiple to Arby’s earnings before income taxes, depreciation and amortization per its current unaudited financial information. The carrying value of our indirect investment in Arby’s was reduced to zero during 2013 in connection with the receipt of a dividend. See Note 6 for more information. The fair values of our remaining investments are not significant and are based on our review of information provided by the investment managers or investees which was based on (1) valuations performed by the investment managers or investees, (2) quoted market or broker/dealer prices for similar investments and (3) quoted market or broker/dealer prices adjusted by the investment managers for legal or contractual restrictions, risk of nonperformance or lack of marketability, depending upon the underlying investments.
	(b)	The fair values were developed using market observable data for all significant inputs.
	(c)	The fair values were based on quoted market prices in markets that are not considered active markets.
	(d)	Wendy’s has provided loan guarantees to various lenders on behalf of franchisees entering into debt arrangements for new restaurant development and equipment financing. In addition during 2012, Wendy’s provided a guarantee to a lender for a franchisee in connection with the refinancing of the franchisee’s debt. We have accrued a liability for the fair value of these guarantees, the calculation of which was based upon a weighted average risk percentage established at inception adjusted for a history of defaults.
Fair value of assets and liabilities (other than cash and cash equivalents) measure at fair value on a nonrecurring basis
				Fair Value Measurements						2014 Total Losses
		December 28,		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
		2014
	Long-lived assets	$	13,618	$	—	$	—	$	13,618	$	19,613
	Total	$	13,618	$	—	$	—	$	13,618	$	19,613
				Fair Value Measurements						2013 Total Losses
		December 29,		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
		2013
	Long-lived assets	$	14,788	$	—	$	—	$	14,788	$	31,058
	Goodwill	—		—		—		—		9,397
	Aircraft	8,500		—		—		8,500		5,327
	Total	$	23,288	$	—	$	—	$	23,288	$	45,782

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block]	Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interests is set forth below:
			Year Ended
			2014			2013			2012
	Domestic		$	181,872		$	49,635		$	(23,154	)
	Foreign		19,397			9,417			10,029
			$	201,269		$	59,052		$	(13,125	)
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]	The (provision for) benefit from income taxes from continuing operations is set forth below:
			Year Ended
			2014			2013			2012
	Current:
	U.S. Federal		$	6,087		$	(1,603	)	$	104
	State		(8,289		)	7,879			(669		)
	Foreign		(8,093		)	(7,446		)	(8,667		)
	Current tax provision		(10,295		)	(1,170		)	(9,232		)
	Deferred:
	U.S. Federal		(70,246		)	(21,103		)	6,458
	State		233			6,173			18,026
	Foreign		473			1,946			5,831
	Deferred tax (provision) benefit		(69,540		)	(12,984		)	30,315
	Income tax (provision) benefit		$	(79,835	)	$	(14,154	)	$	21,083
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	Deferred tax assets (liabilities) are set forth below:
			Year End
			2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Net operating loss and credit carryforwards		$	82,143		$	115,910
	Accrued compensation and related benefits		40,268			40,289
	Unfavorable leases		34,140			13,913
	Accrued expenses and reserves		23,336			31,555
	Deferred rent		15,214			13,121
	Other		9,122			8,682
	Valuation allowances		(11,213		)	(10,548		)
	Total deferred tax assets		193,010			212,922
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Intangible assets		(506,251		)	(473,011		)
	Owned and leased fixed assets net of related obligations		(89,117		)	(83,352		)
	Other		(17,824		)	(18,996		)
	Total deferred tax liabilities		(613,192		)	(575,359		)
			$	(420,182	)	$	(362,437	)
Summary of Net Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards [Table Text Block]	The amounts and expiration dates of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards are as follows:
			Amount			Expiration
	Tax credit carryforwards:
	U.S. federal credits (primarily foreign tax credits and jobs credits)		$	90,136		2018-2034
	State tax credits		504			2019-2023
	Foreign tax credits of non-U.S. subsidiaries		2,313			2021-2023
	Total		$	92,953
	Net operating loss carryforwards:
	State net operating loss carryforwards		$	1,087,272		2015-2033
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	The reconciliation of income tax computed at the U.S. Federal statutory rate to reported income tax is set forth below:
			Year Ended
			2014			2013			2012
	Income tax (provision) benefit at the U.S. Federal statutory rate		$	(70,444	)	$	(20,668	)	$	4,594
	State income tax (provision) benefit, net of U.S. Federal income tax effect		(5,309		)	(1,370		)	11,364
	Foreign and U.S. tax effects of foreign operations (a)		4,089			2,886			347
	Jobs tax credits, net		2,084			4,384			970
	Dividends received deduction (b)		—			1,424			1,133
	Corrections related to prior years’ tax matters (c)		—			—			7,620
	Non-deductible goodwill (d)		(9,389		)	(9,875		)	—
	Valuation allowances (e)		(665		)	10,504			(3,655		)
	Non-deductible expenses and other, net		(201		)	(1,439		)	(1,290		)
			$	(79,835	)	$	(14,154	)	$	21,083
	_______________
	(a)	2013 includes reversal of deferred taxes on investments in foreign subsidiaries now considered permanently invested outside of the U.S.
	(b)	We received dividends of $40,145 and $4,625 during 2013 and 2012, respectively, from our investment in Arby’s. See Note 6 for further information.
	(c)	Corrections in 2012 related to tax matters in prior years for the effects of tax depreciation in states that do not follow federal law of $3,300, the effects of a one-time federal employment tax credit in 2011 of $2,220 and a correction to certain deferred tax assets and liabilities of $2,100.
	(d)	Substantially all of the goodwill included in the gain on sales of restaurants in 2014 and 2013, including under our system optimization initiative as noted below, and the impairment of international goodwill in 2013 was non-deductible for tax purposes. See Notes 2, 3 and 8 for further information.
	(e)	Includes changes for deferred tax assets generated or utilized during the current year and changes in our judgment regarding the likelihood of the utilization of deferred tax assets. 2013 primarily relates to changes in the likelihood of the utilization of deferred tax assets related to state net operating loss carryforwards.
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block]	As of December 28, 2014, the Company had unrecognized tax benefits of $25,715, which, if resolved favorably would reduce income tax expense by $18,762. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits follows:
			Year End
			2014			2013			2012
	Beginning balance		$	23,897		$	28,848		$	30,614
	Additions:
	Tax positions of prior years		2,678			3,579			3,410
	Reductions:
	Tax positions of prior years		(582		)	(4,914		)	(2,964		)
	Settlements		—			(2,416		)	(1,327		)
	Lapse of statute of limitations		(278		)	(1,200		)	(885		)
	Ending balance		$	25,715		$	23,897		$	28,848

Stockholders_Equity_Tables

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block]	There were 470,424 shares of common stock issued at the beginning and end of 2014, 2013 and 2012. Treasury stock activity for 2014, 2013 and 2012 was as follows:
			Treasury Stock
			2014		2013			2012
	Number of shares at beginning of year		77,637		78,051			80,700
	Repurchases of common stock		32,716		8,720			—
	Common shares issued:
	Stock options, net		(4,930	)	(8,771	)		(2,079	)
	Restricted stock, net		(732	)	(202	)		(211	)
	Director fees		(24	)	(35	)		(45	)
	Other		(53	)	(126	)		(314	)
	Number of shares at end of year		104,614		77,637			78,051
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]	The following table provides a rollforward of the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to The Wendy’s Company, net of tax as applicable:
		Foreign Currency Translation			Cash Flow Hedges				Pension			Total
	Balance at January 1, 2012	$	1,101		$	—			$	(999	)	$	102
	Current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	6,096			—				(217		)	5,879
	Balance at December 30, 2012	7,197			—				(1,216		)	5,981
	Current-period other comprehensive (loss) income	(17,000		)	744				(62		)	(16,318		)
	Balance at December 29, 2013	(9,803		)	744				(1,278		)	(10,337		)
	Current-period other comprehensive (loss) income	(18,560		)	(2,788		)		391			(20,957		)
	Balance at December 28, 2014	$	(28,363	)	$	(2,044	)		$	(887	)	$	(31,294	)

ShareBased_Compensation_Tables

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes stock option activity during 2014:
		Number of Options			Weighted				Weighted		Aggregate
					Average				Average		Intrinsic
					Exercise				Remaining		Value
					Price				Contractual
									Life in Years
	Outstanding at December 29, 2013	20,533			$	6.58
	Granted	5,346			8.22
	Exercised	(5,338	)		6.46
	Forfeited and/or expired	(973	)		8.55
	Outstanding at December 28, 2014	19,568			$	6.96			6.9		$	44,002
	Vested or expected to vest at December 28, 2014	19,219			$	6.96			6.9		$	43,325
	Exercisable at December 28, 2014	7,787			$	6.94			4.2		$	21,132
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract]	The weighted average grant date fair value of stock options was determined using the following assumptions:
		2014			2013			2012
	Risk-free interest rate	1.97	%		1.6	%		0.98	%
	Expected option life in years	6.35			5.62			6.62
	Expected volatility	35.4	%		45.6	%		45.9	%
	Expected dividend yield	2.43	%		2.52	%		1.71	%
Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes activity of Restricted Shares during 2014:
		Number of Restricted Shares			Weighted
					Average
					Grant Date Fair Value
	Non-vested at December 29, 2013	2,300			$	5.75
	Granted	994			8.38
	Vested	(620	)		5.38
	Forfeited	(231	)		6.81
	Non-vested at December 28, 2014	2,443			$	6.8
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Performance Share Awards, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]	The input variables are noted in the table below:
		2012
	Risk-free interest rate	0.41	%
	Expected life in years	2.99
	Expected volatility	34	%
	Expected dividend yield (a)	0	%
	_______________
	(a)	The Monte Carlo method assumes a reinvestment of dividends.
Schedule of Nonvested Performance-based Units Activity [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes activity of performance shares at Target during 2014:
		Performance Condition Awards							Market Condition Awards
		Shares			Weighted				Shares			Weighted
					Average							Average
					Grant Date Fair Value							Grant Date Fair Value
	Non-vested at December 29, 2013	531			$	7.92			1,522			$	6.52
	Granted	454			9.74				—			—
	Dividend equivalent units issued (a)	22			—				23			—
	Vested (b)	(11	)		7.92				(706	)		6.96
	Forfeited	(63	)		8.31				(171	)		6.53
	Non-vested at December 28, 2014	933			$	8.81			668			$	6.04
	_______________
	(a)	Dividend equivalent units are issued in lieu of cash dividends for non-vested performance shares. There is no weighted average fair value associated with dividend equivalent units.
	(b)	Excludes the vesting of an additional 54 shares, which resulted from the performance of market condition awards exceeding Target.
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block]	Total share-based compensation and the related income tax benefit recognized in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations were as follows:
		Year Ended
		2014				2013				2012
	Stock options	$	13,820			$	7,300			$	5,578
	Restricted Shares	4,554				3,985				2,730
	Performance shares:
	Performance condition awards	7,456				2,007				—
	Market condition awards	37				5,279				3,210
	Modifications, net	2,376				1,042				(45		)
	Share-based compensation	28,243				19,613				11,473
	Less: Income tax benefit	(10,429		)		(7,295		)		(4,286		)
	Share-based compensation, net of income tax benefit	$	17,814			$	12,318			$	7,187

Impairment_of_LongLived_Assets1

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets (Tables) (Impairment of long-lived assets [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Impairment of long-lived assets [Member]
Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets [Table Text Block]	These impairment losses, as detailed in the following table, represented the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the affected assets and are included in “Impairment of long-lived assets.”
		Year Ended
		2014		2013		2012
	Properties and intangible assets	$	10,985	$	10,552	$	19,469
	Aircraft	—		5,327		1,628
		$	10,985	$	15,879	$	21,097

Investment_Income_Net_Tables

Investment Income, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Investment Income, Net [Abstract]
Investment Income
		Year Ended
		2014		2013			2012
	Gain (loss) on sale of investments, net (a)	$	975	$	(799	)	$	27,769
	Distributions, including dividends (b)	184		24,113			8,463
	Other, net	40		251			11
		$	1,199	$	23,565		$	36,243
	_______________
	(a)	In 2012, we recorded a gain on the sale of our investment in Jurlique of $27,407, which included a loss of $2,913 on the settlement of the derivative transaction. During 2013, we determined that $799 of the remaining escrow would not be received and recorded the reduction of our escrow receivable to “Investment income, net.” In 2014, we received a final escrow payment resulting in a net gain of $199. See Note 6 for further information.
	(b)	During 2013, we received a dividend of $40,145 from our investment in Arby’s, of which $21,145 was recognized in “Investment income, net,” with the remainder recorded as a reduction to the carrying value of our investment in Arby’s. During 2012, we received a dividend of $4,625 from our investment in Arby’s, which was included in “Investment income, net.” See Note 6 for further information.

Discontinued_Operations_Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Schedule of income from discontinued operations [Table Text Block]	The following table presents Arby’s (loss) income from operations which have been reported in discontinued operations:
		Year Ended
		2013			2012
	(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes:
	(Loss) income from discontinued operations before income taxes	$	(425	)	$	907
	Benefit from income taxes	159			1,044
		(266		)	1,951
	Loss on disposal of discontinued operations, net of income taxes	—			(442		)
	Net (loss) income from discontinued operations	$	(266	)	$	1,509

Leases_Tables

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block]	Rental expense for operating leases consists of the following components:
			Year Ended
			2014				2013				2012
	Rental expense:
	Minimum rentals		$	76,218			$	68,445			$	70,525
	Contingent rentals		19,967				10,421				10,971
	Total rental expense (a)		$	96,185			$	78,866			$	81,496
	_______________
	(a)	Amounts exclude sublease income of $46,743, $16,924, and $13,317 recognized during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Schedule of Rent Income [Table Text Block]	Rental income for operating leases and subleases consists of the following components:
			Year Ended
			2014				2013				2012
	Rental income:
	Minimum rentals		$	51,019			$	16,245			$	10,757
	Contingent rentals		17,745				11,162				11,086
	Total rental income		$	68,764			$	27,407			$	21,843
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]	The following table illustrates the Company’s future minimum rental payments and rental receipts for non-cancelable leases and subleases, including rental receipts for direct financing leases as of December 28, 2014. Rental receipts below are presented separately for owned properties and for leased properties based on the classification of the underlying lease.
		Rental Payments								Rental Receipts
	Fiscal Year	Capital				Operating				Capital			Operating		Owned
		Leases				Leases				Leases			Leases		Properties
	2015	$	7,617			$	70,119			$	7,658		$	32,501	$	20,105
	2016	7,110				64,537				7,783			32,285		20,010
	2017	6,512				63,376				8,032			32,074		19,923
	2018	7,585				61,290				7,750			31,187		20,096
	2019	7,734				59,587				7,723			30,879		21,096
	Thereafter	107,085				787,283				134,337			434,426		382,366
	Total minimum payments	$	143,643			$	1,106,192			$	173,283		$	593,352	$	483,596
	Less interest	(82,844		)
	Present value of minimum capital lease payments (a)	$	60,799
	_______________
	(a)	The present value of minimum capital lease payments of $821 and $59,978 are included in “Current portion of long-term debt” and “Long-term debt,” respectively.
Schedule Of Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease	Properties owned by the Company and leased to franchisees and other third parties under operating leases include:
			Year End
			2014				2013
	Land		$	371,174			$	69,500
	Buildings and improvements		399,541				194,246
	Office, restaurant and transportation equipment		160,514				6,715
			931,229				270,461
	Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(162,731		)		(79,536		)
			$	768,498			$	190,925
Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table Text Block]	Our net investment in direct financing leases is as follows:
			Year Ended
			2014				2013
	Future minimum rental receipts		$	109,674			$	74,625
	Unearned income		(74,102		)		(53,654		)
	Net investment in direct financing leases		35,572				20,971
	Net current investment in direct financing leases (a)		(193		)		(226		)
	Net non-current investment in direct financing leases (b)		$	35,379			$	20,745
	_______________
	(a)	Included in “Accounts and notes receivable.”
	(b)	Included in “Other assets.”

Transactions_with_Related_Part1

Transactions with Related Parties (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions by Related Party	The following is a summary of transactions between the Company and its related parties, which are included in continuing operations:
		Year Ended
		2014			2013			2012
	Transactions with QSCC:
	Wendy’s Co-Op (a)	$	(1,516	)	$	(3,291	)	$	(2,464	)
	Lease income (b)	(185		)	(188		)	(191		)
	Transactions with the Management Company:
	Use of company-owned aircraft (c)	$	(375	)	$	(1,420	)	$	(1,309	)
	Sublease income (d)	—			—			(683		)
	Distributions of proceeds to noncontrolling interests (e)	$	—		$	—		$	3,667
	TimWen lease and management fee payments (f)	$	6,064		$	6,587		$	6,605
	_______________
	Transactions with QSCC
	(a)	Wendy’s has a purchasing co-op relationship agreement (the “Wendy’s Co-op”) with its franchisees which establishes Quality Supply Chain Co-op, Inc. (“QSCC”). QSCC manages, for the Wendy’s system in the U.S. and Canada, contracts for the purchase and distribution of food, proprietary paper, operating supplies and equipment under national agreements with pricing based upon total system volume. QSCC’s supply chain management facilitates continuity of supply and provides consolidated purchasing efficiencies while monitoring and seeking to minimize possible obsolete inventory throughout the Wendy’s supply chain in the U.S. and Canada.
	Wendy’s and its franchisees pay sourcing fees to third-party vendors on certain products sourced by QSCC. Such sourcing fees are remitted by these vendors to QSCC and are the primary means of funding QSCC’s operations. Should QSCC’s sourcing fees exceed its expected needs, QSCC’s board of directors may return some or all of the excess to its members in the form of a patronage dividend. Wendy’s recorded its share of patronage dividends of $1,516, $3,291 and $2,464 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which are included as a reduction of “Cost of sales.”
	(b)	Effective January 1, 2011, Wendy’s leased 14,333 square feet of office space to QSCC for an annual base rental of $176. There is currently one one-year renewal option remaining under this lease. The Wendy’s Company received $185, $188 and $191 of lease income from QSCC during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which has been recorded as a reduction of “General and administrative.”
	Transactions with the Management Company
	(c)	In June 2009, The Wendy’s Company and TASCO, LLC (an affiliate of a management company formed by the Former Executives and a director, who was our former Vice Chairman (the “Management Company”)) (“TASCO”) entered into an aircraft lease agreement (the “Aircraft Lease Agreement”) to lease a company-owned aircraft. On June 29, 2011, The Wendy’s Company and TASCO entered into an agreement to extend the Aircraft Lease Agreement for an additional one year period (expiring on June 30, 2012) and an increased monthly rent of $13. On June 30, 2012, The Wendy’s Company and TASCO entered into an extension of that lease agreement that extended the lease term to July 31, 2012 and effective as of August 1, 2012, entered into an amended and restated aircraft lease agreement (the “2012 Lease”) that expired on January 5, 2014. Under the 2012 Lease, all expenses related to the ownership, maintenance and operation of the aircraft were paid by TASCO, subject to certain limitations and termination rights. The 2012 Lease expired without any limitation or termination provisions being invoked. The Wendy’s Company did not extend or renew the 2012 Lease. Under the previous Aircraft Lease Agreement, the Company recorded lease income of $92 during 2012 as a reduction of “General and administrative.”
	The Wendy’s Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, was party to a three-year aircraft management and lease agreement, which expired in March 2014, with CitationAir, a subsidiary of Cessna Aircraft Company, pursuant to which the Company leased a corporate aircraft to CitationAir to use as part of its Jet Card program fleet. The Company entered into the lease agreement as a means of offsetting the cost of owning and operating the corporate aircraft by receiving revenue from third parties’ use of such aircraft. Under the terms of the lease agreement, the Company paid annual management and flight crew fees to CitationAir and reimbursed CitationAir for maintenance costs and fuel usage related to the corporate aircraft. In return, CitationAir paid a negotiated fee to the Company based on the number of hours that the corporate aircraft was used by Jet Card members. This fee was reduced based on the number of hours that (1) the Company used other aircraft in the Jet Card program fleet and (2) Jet Card members who are affiliated with the Company used the corporate aircraft or other aircraft in the Jet Card program fleet. The Company’s participation in the aircraft management and lease agreement reduced the aggregate costs that the Company would otherwise have incurred in connection with owning and operating the corporate aircraft. Under the terms of the lease agreement, the Company’s directors had the opportunity to become Jet Card members and to use aircraft in the Jet Card program fleet at the same negotiated fee paid by the Company as provided for under the lease agreement. During the first quarter of 2014 and the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, the Former Executives and a director, who was our former Vice Chairman, and members of their immediate families, used their Jet Card agreements for business and personal travel on aircraft in the Jet Card program fleet. The Management Company paid CitationAir directly, and the Company received credit from CitationAir for charges related to such travel of approximately $375, $1,420 and $1,217 during the first quarter of 2014 and the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, respectively.
	(d)	In July 2008 and July 2007, The Wendy’s Company entered into agreements under which the Management Company subleased (the “Subleases”) office space on two of the floors of the Company’s former New York headquarters. During the second quarter of 2010, The Wendy’s Company and the Management Company entered into an amendment to the sublease, effective April 1, 2010, pursuant to which the Management Company’s early termination right was canceled in exchange for a reduction in rent. Under the terms of the amended sublease, which expired in May 2012, the Management Company paid rent to the Company in an amount that covered substantially all of the Company’s rent obligations under the prime lease for the subleased space. The Company recognized income of $683 from the Management Company under such subleases in 2012, which has been recorded as a reduction of “General and administrative.”
	Distributions of proceeds to noncontrolling interests
	(e)	Jurl, a 99.7% owned subsidiary, completed the sale of our investment in Jurlique in February 2012. Prior to 2009, when our predecessor entity was a diversified company active in investments, we had provided our Former Executives, and certain other former employees, equity and profit interests in Jurl. In connection with the gain on sale of Jurlique, we distributed, based on the related agreement, approximately $3,667 in 2012 to Jurl’s minority shareholders, including approximately $2,296 to the Former Executives. See Note 6 for further discussion of the sale of Jurlique.
	TimWen lease and management fee payments
	(f)	A wholly-owned subsidiary of Wendy’s leases restaurant facilities from TimWen for the operation of Wendy’s/Tim Hortons combo units in Canada. Wendy’s paid TimWen $6,313, $6,854 and $6,880 under such leases during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which have been included in “Costs of sales.” Wendy’s subleases some of the restaurant facilities to franchisees and they pay TimWen directly. In addition, TimWen paid Wendy’s a management fee under the TimWen joint venture agreement, of $249, $267 and $275 during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which has been included as a reduction to “General and administrative.”

Advertising_Costs_and_Funds_Ta

Advertising Costs and Funds (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Marketing and Advertising Expense [Abstract]
Schedule of Restricted Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	Restricted assets and related liabilities of the Advertising Funds at December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013 were as follows:
		Year End
		2014			2013
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	15,085		$	22,711
	Accounts and notes receivable	42,717			37,960
	Other assets	7,506			6,512
	Total assets	$	65,308		$	67,183
	Accounts payable	$	3,736		$	2,544
	Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	70,206			70,382
	Member’s deficit	(8,634		)	(5,743		)
	Total liabilities and deficit	$	65,308		$	67,183

Geographic_Information_Tables

Geographic Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Segments, Geographical Areas [Abstract]
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block]	The tables below present revenues and properties information by geographic area.
		U.S.		Canada		Other International		Total
	2014
	Revenues	$	1,796,725	$	247,792	$	16,546	$	2,061,063
	Properties	1,232,613		38,538		87		1,271,238
	2013
	Revenues	$	2,213,875	$	255,216	$	18,319	$	2,487,410
	Properties	1,108,219		57,232		36		1,165,487
	2012
	Revenues	$	2,231,270	$	257,750	$	16,222	$	2,505,242
	Properties	1,186,879		63,412		47		1,250,338

Quarterly_Financial_Informatio1

Quarterly Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	The tables below set forth summary unaudited consolidated quarterly financial information for 2014 and 2013. The Company reports on a fiscal year typically consisting of 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Sunday closest to December 31. All of the Company’s fiscal quarters in 2014 and 2013 contained 13 weeks.
		2014 Quarter Ended
		March 30 (a)		29-Jun		September 28 (a)			December 28 (a)
	Revenues	$	523,196	$	523,427	$	512,489		$	501,951
	Cost of sales	374,190		347,780		343,807			335,019
	Operating profit	89,014		63,854		46,923			51,717
	Net income	46,303		29,007		22,830			23,294
	Basic and diluted net income per share (b)	$	0.12	$	0.08	$	0.06		$	0.06
		2013 Quarter Ended
		March 31 (c)		June 30 (c)		September 29 (c)			December 29 (c)
	Revenues	$	603,682	$	650,544	$	640,779		$	592,405
	Cost of sales	460,828		473,298		469,177			436,437
	Operating profit	22,464		56,990		26,810			28,878
	Income (loss) from continuing operations	2,133		12,002		(2,162		)	32,925
	Net loss from discontinued operations	—		—		—			(266		)
	Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	—		222		223			410
	Net income (loss) attributable to The Wendy’s Company	$	2,133	$	12,224	$	(1,939	)	$	33,069
	Basic income (loss) per share attributable to The Wendy’s Company:
	Continuing operations	$	0.01	$	0.03	$	—		$	0.09
	Discontinued operations	—		—		—			—
	Net income (loss)	$	0.01	$	0.03	$	—		$	0.08
	Diluted income (loss) per share attributable to The Wendy’s Company:
	Continuing operations	$	0.01	$	0.03	$	—		$	0.08
	Discontinued operations	—		—		—			—
	Net income (loss)	$	0.01	$	0.03	$	—		$	0.08
	_______________
	(a)	The Company’s consolidated statements of operations were materially impacted by facilities action (income) charges, net and impairment of long-lived assets. The pre-tax impact of facilities action (income) charges, net for the first, third and fourth quarters of 2014 was $(44,033), $7,520 and $6,530, respectively (see Note 2 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of impairment of long-lived assets during the third and fourth quarters of 2014 was $3,408 and $7,245, respectively (see Note 15 for additional information).
	(b)	Basic and diluted net income per share are being presented together since diluted net income per share was the same as basic net income per share for all periods presented (see Note 4 for additional information).
	(c)	The Company’s consolidated statements of operations were materially impacted by facilities action (income) charges, net, impairment of long-lived assets, impairment of goodwill and losses on early extinguishment of debt. The pre-tax impact of facilities action charges (income), net for the first, second, third and fourth quarters of 2013 was $3,038, $6,377, $22,275 and $(20,834), respectively (see Note 2 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of impairment of long-lived assets during the third and fourth quarters of 2013 was $5,327 and $10,552, respectively, (see Note 15 for additional information) and the pre-tax impact of impairment of goodwill during the fourth quarter of 2013 was $9,397 (see Note 8 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of losses on the early extinguishment of debt during the second and fourth quarters of 2013 was $21,019 and $7,544, respectively (see Note 10 for additional information).

Parent_Financial_Statements_Pa1

Parent Financial Statements Parent Financial Statements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Parent Balance Sheet
		December 28,			December 29,
		2014			2013
	ASSETS
	Current assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	35,556		$	179,916
	Amounts due from subsidiaries	212,802			185,695
	Deferred income tax benefit and other current assets	51,990			99,039
	Total current assets	300,348			464,650
	Investments in consolidated subsidiaries	1,572,571			1,687,364
	Deferred income tax benefit	10,879			—
	Total assets	$	1,883,798		$	2,152,014
	LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
	Current liabilities:
	Amounts due to subsidiaries	$	161,466		$	157,372
	Deferred income taxes and other current liabilities	1,555			1,540
	Total current liabilities	163,021			158,912
	Deferred income taxes	—			53,920
	Other liabilities	3,201			9,696
	Stockholders’ equity:
	Common stock, $0.10 par value; 1,500,000 shares authorized;	47,042			47,042
	470,424 shares issued
	Additional paid-in capital	2,826,965			2,794,445
	Accumulated deficit	(445,917		)	(492,215		)
	Common stock held in treasury, at cost	(679,220		)	(409,449		)
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(31,294		)	(10,337		)
	Total stockholders’ equity	1,717,576			1,929,486
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	1,883,798		$	2,152,014
Parent Income Statement
			Year Ended
			December 28, 2014			December 29, 2013				December 30, 2012
	Income:
	Equity in income from continuing operations of subsidiaries		$	113,010		$	21,116			$	29,708
	Costs and expenses:
	General and administrative		10,567			10,381				10,911
	Depreciation and amortization		—			1,272				1,975
	Facilities action charges, net		—			330				5,327
	Impairment of long-lived assets		—			1,830				1,628
	Other expense (income), net		306			(23		)		953
			10,873			13,790				20,794
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes		102,137			7,326				8,914
	Benefit from (provision for) income taxes		19,297			38,427				(3,340		)
	Income from continuing operations		121,434			45,753				5,574
	Equity in (loss) income from discontinued operations of subsidiaries		—			(266		)		1,509
	Net income		$	121,434		$	45,487			$	7,083
Parent Comprehensive Income
		Year Ended
		December 28, 2014			December 29, 2013				December 30, 2012
	Net income	$	121,434		$	45,487			$	7,083
	Other comprehensive (loss) income, net:
	Foreign currency translation adjustment	(18,560		)	(17,000		)		6,096
	Change in unrecognized pension loss, net of income tax (provision) benefit of $(160), $37 and $127, respectively	391			(62		)		(217		)
	Change in unrealized (loss) gain on cash flow hedges, net of income tax benefit (provision) of $1,767 and $(468), respectively	(2,788		)	744				—
	Other comprehensive (loss) income, net	(20,957		)	(16,318		)		5,879
	Comprehensive income	$	100,477		$	29,169			$	12,962
Parent Cash Flow Statements
		Year Ended
		December 28,			December 29,				December 30,
		2014			2013				2012
	Cash flows from operating activities:
	Net income	$	121,434		$	45,487			$	7,083
	Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
	Equity in income from operations of subsidiaries	(113,010		)	(20,850		)		(31,217		)
	Depreciation and amortization	—			1,272				3,078
	Share-based compensation	737			1,552				944
	Impairment of long-lived assets	—			1,830				1,628
	Deferred income tax	7,213			80,161				(4,118		)
	Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	(9,363		)	—				—
	Amortization of deferred financing costs	—			—				21
	Dividends from subsidiaries	210,000			170,000				—
	Tax sharing receivable from subsidiaries, net	(16,764		)	(119,249		)		—
	Tax sharing payments received from subsidiaries	—			—				37
	Other operating transactions with Wendy’s Restaurants, LLC	(13,002		)	4,988				28,733
	Other, net	(5,525		)	1,439				1,753
	Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
	Other current assets	2,300			10,305				(472		)
	Other current liabilities	4,654			(2,040		)		8,643
	Net cash provided by operating activities	188,674			174,895				16,113
	Cash flows from investing activities:
	Other, net	3,148			—				686
	Net cash provided by investing activities	3,148			—				686
	Cash flows from financing activities:
	Repayments of long-term debt	—			—				(11,303		)
	Repurchases of common stock	(301,216		)	(69,320		)		—
	Dividends	(75,117		)	(70,681		)		(39,043		)
	Proceeds from stock option exercises	30,788			42,370				7,806
	Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	9,363			—				—
	Other, net	—			—				(48		)
	Net cash used in financing activities	(336,182		)	(97,631		)		(42,588		)
	Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	(144,360		)	77,264				(25,789		)
	Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	179,916			102,652				128,441
	Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	35,556		$	179,916			$	102,652

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Corporate Structure (Details)	Dec. 28, 2014
	stores
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of Restaurants	6,515
Entity Operated Units [Member]
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of Restaurants	957
Franchised Units [Member]
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of Restaurants	5,558
Other International | Franchised Units [Member]
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of Countries Entity Operates	27

Summary_of_Significant_Account3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Principles of Consolidation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
	funds
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Number of Advertising Funds	2
Franchisee-Owned Wendy's / Tim Hortons Canadian Combo Units [Member] | Franchise Revenues [Member]
Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments Restatement [Line Items]
Prior Period Error, Unadjusted		$7,544	$7,724
Franchisee-Owned Wendy's / Tim Hortons Canadian Combo Units [Member] | Other operating expense, net [Member]
Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments Restatement [Line Items]
Prior Period Error, Unadjusted		7,544	7,724
Franchisee-Owned Wendy's / Tim Hortons Canadian Combo Units [Member] | Operating Income (Loss) [Member]
Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments Restatement [Line Items]
Prior Period Error, Unadjusted		$0	$0

Summary_of_Significant_Account4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Cash Equivalents (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Cash Equivalents, Insurance from Securities Investor Protection Corporation, Maximum per Account	$500

Summary_of_Significant_Account5

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Properties and Depreciation and Amortization (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Office and Restaurant Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Properties
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Office and Restaurant Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Properties
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	20 years
Transportation Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Properties
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Transportation Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Properties
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	15 years
Building [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Properties
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	7 years
Building [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Properties
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	30 years

Summary_of_Significant_Account6

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Goodwill (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
	segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Number of Reporting Units	2

Summary_of_Significant_Account7

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Other Intangible Assets and Deferred Financing Costs (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Computer Software, Intangible Asset [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	5 years
Reacquired Rights under Franchise Agreements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	3 years
Reacquired Rights under Franchise Agreements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	20 years
Franchise Agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	20 years

Summary_of_Significant_Account8

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Investments (Details)	Dec. 28, 2014
TimWen [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	50.00%
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member]
Schedule of Cost-method Investments [Line Items]
Proceeds from Divestiture of Business, Percentage of Buyer Stock Received	18.50%

Summary_of_Significant_Account9

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Self-insurance (Details) (Insurance Claims [Member], USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Insurance Claims [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss per Occurrence, Maximum	$500

Recovered_Sheet1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Leases (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Minimum [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract	15 years
Maximum [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract	20 years

Recovered_Sheet2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Concentration of Risk (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
	distributors
	customers
	stores
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Major Customers	0
Number of Main In-line Distributors	1
Number of Additional In-line Distributors	3
Number of States Where Restaurants are Located	50
Main In-line Distributor Risk [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk, Percentage	57.00%
Additional In-line Distributor Risk [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk, Percentage	36.00%
Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk, Percentage	10.00%
Foreign Countries [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Number of Countries Entity Operates (Including Canada)	28

Facilities_Action_Income_Charg2

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net Summary Table (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	$6,530	$7,520	($44,033)	($20,834)	$22,275	$6,377	$3,038	($29,100)	$10,856	$41,031
System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges								-42,026	4,901	0
G&A Realignment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges								12,926	0	0
Facilities Relocation and Other Transition Costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges								0	4,574	28,990
Breakfast discontinuation [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges								0	1,118	10,569
Arby's transaction related costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges								$0	$263	$1,472

Facilities_Action_Income_Charg3

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net System Optimization Costs (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended					6 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Sep. 28, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012	Dec. 28, 2014		Mar. 30, 2014	Jul. 31, 2013
														stores		stores	stores
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Gain on sales of restaurants, net									($69,631)		($46,667)		$0
System Optimization Remeasurement									8,628		20,506		0
Restructuring Charges	6,530		7,520	-44,033	-20,834	22,275	6,377	3,038	-29,100		10,856		41,031
System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Significant Changes, Planned Franchises to Sell																	425
Significant Changes, Franchises Sold, Incurred to Date																418
Significant Changes, Franchises Sold				174					203		244			29
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining	1,000								1,000					1,000
Gain on sales of restaurants, net									-69,631		-46,667
Gain on sales of restaurants, net, cost incurred since inception	-116,298								-116,298					-116,298
System Optimization Remeasurement									8,628	[1]	20,506	[1]
System Optimization Remeasurement, costs incurred since inception	29,134	[1]							29,134	[1]				29,134	[1]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									14,710		12,902
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	-37,125								-37,125					-37,125
Restructuring Charges									-42,026		4,901		0
Accelerated Depreciation and Amortization [Member] | System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									507	[2]	16,907	[2]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	17,414	[2]							17,414	[2]				17,414	[2]
Severance, Retention and Other Payroll Costs [Member] | System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									7,608		9,650
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	17,258								17,258					17,258
Professional Fees [Member] | System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									3,424		2,389
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	5,813								5,813					5,813
Share Based Compensation Expense [Member] | System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									3,760	[3]	1,253	[3]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	5,013	[3]							5,013	[3]				5,013	[3]
Other Restructuring [Member] | System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									3,678		863
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	$4,541								$4,541					$4,541
[1]	Includes remeasurement of land, buildings, leasehold improvements and favorable lease assets at all company-owned restaurants included in our system optimization initiative. See Note 11 for more information on non-recurring fair value measurements.
[2]	Primarily includes accelerated amortization of previously acquired franchise rights related to company-owned restaurants in territories that were sold in connection with our system optimization initiative.
[3]	Represents incremental share-based compensation resulting from the modification of stock options and performance-based awards in connection with the termination of employees under our system optimization initiative.

Facilities_Action_Income_Charg4

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net System Optimization Gain on Sale of Restaurants (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended					3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014
						stores	stores
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Gain on sales of restaurants, net	$69,631		$46,667		$0
System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Number of restaurants sold to franchisees	203		244			174	29
Proceeds from sales of restaurants	107,833		130,154
Net assets sold	-46,874	[1]	-60,895	[1]
Goodwill related to sales of restaurants	-14,688		-20,578
Net favorable (unfavorable) lease assets (liabilities)	28,105	[2]	-57	[2]
Other	-3,465	[3]	-1,957
Gain on sales of restaurants before post closing purchase price adjustments	70,911		46,667
Post-closing adjustments on sales of restaurants	-1,280		0
Gain on sales of restaurants, net	69,631		46,667
Favorable Lease Assets	53,750		37,749
Unfavorable Lease Liabilities	25,645		37,806
Guarantee Obligations [Member] | System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Number of restaurants sold to franchisees	8
Guarantee Obligations [Member] | Other Liabilities [Member] | System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Deferred Gain on Sale of Property	$1,995						1,995
[1]	Net assets sold consisted primarily of cash, inventory and equipment.
[2]	During 2014 and 2013, the Company recorded favorable lease assets of $53,750 and $37,749, respectively, and unfavorable lease liabilities of $25,645 and $37,806, respectively, as a result of leasing and/or subleasing land, buildings, and/or leasehold improvements to franchisees, in connection with sales of restaurants.
[3]	2014 includes a deferred gain of $1,995 on the sale of eight Canadian restaurants to a franchisee, as a result of Wendy’s providing a guarantee to a lender on behalf of the franchisee. This deferred gain is included in “Other liabilities.” See Note 20 for further information.

Facilities_Action_Income_Charg5

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net System Optimization Accrual Rollforward (Details) (System Optimization [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$7,448	$0
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	14,710	12,902
Payments	-19,354	-5,454
Ending balance	2,804	7,448
Severance, Retention and Other Payroll Costs [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	7,051	0
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	7,608	9,650
Payments	-12,424	-2,599
Ending balance	2,235	7,051
Professional Fees [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	137	0
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	3,424	2,389
Payments	-3,415	-2,252
Ending balance	146	137
Other Restructuring [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	260	0
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	3,678	863
Payments	-3,515	-603
Ending balance	$423	$260

Facilities_Action_Income_Charg6

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net System Optimization Assets Held for Sale (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended		2 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Feb. 18, 2015	Jul. 31, 2013
	stores	stores	stores	stores	stores	stores
System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Number of Restaurants Classified as Assets Held for Sale		102	102	181
Significant Changes, Franchises Sold	174	29	203	244
Proceeds from sales of restaurants			$107,833	$130,154
Significant Changes, Planned Franchises to Sell						425
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] | System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Long Lived Assets		24,416	24,416	29,630
Subsequent Event [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Significant Changes, Planned Franchises to Sell					500
Future company-owned restaurant ownership percentage					5.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | System Optimization [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Significant Changes, Franchises Sold					9
Proceeds from sales of restaurants					$3,000

Facilities_Action_Income_Charg7

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net G&A Realignment (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	$6,530	$7,520	($44,033)	($20,834)	$22,275	$6,377	$3,038	($29,100)		$10,856	$41,031
G&A Realignment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost								12,214
Restructuring Charges								12,926		0	0
Severance, Retention and Other Payroll Costs [Member] | G&A Realignment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost								11,917
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining	2,500							2,500
Recruiting and Relocation Costs [Member] | G&A Realignment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost								209
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining	5,000							5,000
Other Restructuring [Member] | G&A Realignment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost								88
Share Based Compensation Expense [Member] | G&A Realignment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost								712	[1]
Facilities action charges, net [Member] | G&A Realignment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	12,926
Minimum [Member] | G&A Realignment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining	11,500							11,500
Minimum [Member] | Share Based Compensation Expense [Member] | G&A Realignment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining	4,000							4,000
Maximum [Member] | G&A Realignment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining	13,500							13,500
Maximum [Member] | Share Based Compensation Expense [Member] | G&A Realignment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining	$6,000							$6,000
[1]	Represents incremental share-based compensation resulting from the modification of stock options and performance-based awards in connection with the termination of employees under our G&A realignment plan.

Facilities_Action_Income_Charg8

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net G&A Realignment Accrual Rollforward (Details) (G&A Realignment [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$0
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	12,214
Payments	-451
Ending balance	11,763
Severance, Retention and Other Payroll Costs [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	0
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	11,917
Payments	-308
Ending balance	11,609
Recruiting and Relocation Costs [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	0
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	209
Payments	-60
Ending balance	149
Other Restructuring [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	0
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	88
Payments	-83
Ending balance	$5

Facilities_Action_Income_Charg9

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net Facilities Relocation Costs (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	$6,530	$7,520	($44,033)	($20,834)	$22,275	$6,377	$3,038	($29,100)	$10,856	$41,031
Facilities Relocation and Other Transition Costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									4,574	26,769
Restructuring Charges								0	4,574	28,990
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	36,702							36,702
Restructuring and Related Costs Incurred To Date Net of Accelerated Depreciation Expense and Share-Based Compensation Expense	39,091							39,091
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining	0							0
Facilities Relocation and Other Transition Costs [Member] | Severance, Retention and Other Payroll Costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									1,856	9,952
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	17,153							17,153
Facilities Relocation and Other Transition Costs [Member] | Relocation costs
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									1,898	5,222
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	7,120							7,120
Facilities Relocation and Other Transition Costs [Member] | Atlanta facility closure costs
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									337	4,541
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	4,878							4,878
Facilities Relocation and Other Transition Costs [Member] | Consulting and Professional Fees [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									128	4,928
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	5,056							5,056
Facilities Relocation and Other Transition Costs [Member] | Other Restructuring [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									355	2,126
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	2,495							2,495
Facilities Relocation and Other Transition Costs [Member] | Accelerated Depreciation Expense [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									0	1,921
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	2,118							2,118
Facilities Relocation and Other Transition Costs [Member] | Share Based Compensation Expense [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost									0	300
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	$271							$271

Recovered_Sheet3

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net Facilities Relocation Accrual Rollforward (Details) (Facilities Relocation and Other Transition Costs [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Dec. 28, 2014
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$8,880		$2,259
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	4,574	26,769
Payments	-9,741
Ending balance	3,713	8,880	2,259
Severance, Retention and Other Payroll Costs [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	4,121
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	1,856	9,952
Payments	-5,038
Ending balance	939	4,121
Relocation costs
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	500
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	1,898	5,222
Payments	-2,398
Ending balance	0	500
Atlanta facility closure costs
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	4,170
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	337	4,541
Payments	-1,733
Ending balance	2,774	4,170
Consulting and Professional Fees [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	80
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	128	4,928
Payments	-208
Ending balance	0	80
Other Restructuring [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	9
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	355	2,126
Payments	-364
Ending balance	$0	$9

Recovered_Sheet4

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net Breakfast Discontinuation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	$6,530	$7,520	($44,033)	($20,834)	$22,275	$6,377	$3,038	($29,100)	$10,856	$41,031
Breakfast discontinuation [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges								0	1,118	10,569
Breakfast discontinuation [Member] | Breakfast expansion [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring costs										3,544
Breakfast discontinuation [Member] | Loss on Write-off of Breakfast Equipment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost										$5,277

Recovered_Sheet5

Facilities Action (Income) Charges, Net Arby's Transaction Costs (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended			25 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Dec. 29, 2013
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	$6,530	$7,520	($44,033)	($20,834)	$22,275	$6,377	$3,038	($29,100)	$10,856	$41,031
Arby's transaction related costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges								0	263	1,472
Restructuring and Related Costs Incurred To Date Net of Accelerated Depreciation Expense and Share-Based Compensation Expense											41,919
Restructuring Reserve				0					0		0
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining	0							0
Arby's transaction related costs [Member] | Severance, Retention and Other Payroll Costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Payments									$959

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions_1

Acquisitions and Dispositions Acquisitions (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended				3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 11, 2012		Jul. 13, 2012		Dec. 28, 2014	Jun. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
	stores		stores		stores	stores	stores	stores	stores
	Restaurants
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill					$822,562		$822,562	$842,544	$876,201
Pisces Acquisition [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Significant Changes, Franchises Purchased During Period	30
Number of Restaurants with Lease Agreements Attached	23
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Acquisition Costs	18,915
Cash	55
Inventories	149
Properties	12,485
Deferred taxes and other assets	1,773
Acquired territory rights	18,390	[1]
Favorable ground leases	222
Capitalized lease obligations	-14,394
Deferred vendor incentives	-382
Unfavorable leases	-992
Other liabilities	-952
Total identifiable net assets	16,354
Goodwill	2,561	[2]
Acquired territory rights, weighted average amortization period	13 years
Pisces Acquisition [Member] | Ground Lease [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of Restaurants with Lease Assumption	5
Pisces Acquisition [Member] | Building Lease [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of Restaurants with Lease Assumption	2
Double Cheese Acquisition [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Significant Changes, Franchises Purchased During Period			24
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Acquisition Costs			19,181
Cash			27
Inventories			163
Properties			12,753
Deferred taxes and other assets			190
Acquired territory rights			2,640	[3]
Favorable ground leases			1,147
Capitalized lease obligations			-948
Deferred vendor incentives			-248
Unfavorable leases			-531
Other liabilities			-727
Total identifiable net assets			14,466
Goodwill			4,715	[4]
Acquired territory rights, weighted average amortization period			13 years
Double Cheese Acquisition [Member] | Building Lease [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of Restaurants with Lease Assumption			12
Acquisitions [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Significant Changes, Franchises Purchased During Period					18	3	45	1	2
Intangible assets					0		0
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Acquisition Costs					53,954		53,954		2,594
Properties					19,857		19,857
Acquired territory rights					6,650		6,650
Goodwill					0		0
Goodwill, Period Increase (Decrease)							11,455		485
Acquisitions [Member] | Other operating expense, net [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Combination, Bargain Purchase, Gain Recognized, Amount							$349
[1]	The acquired territory rights had a weighted average amortization period of 13 years. Due to the subsequent sale of this territory, we accelerated the amortization through the date of sale.
[2]	This goodwill was not deductible or amortizable for income tax purposes. In addition, the goodwill was disposed of as a result of the subsequent sale of this territory.
[3]	The acquired territory rights had a weighted average amortization period of 13 years. Due to the sale of this territory, we accelerated the amortization through the date of sale.
[4]	This goodwill was partially amortizable for income tax purposes. In addition, the goodwill was disposed of as a result of the subsequent sale of this territory.

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions_2

Acquisitions and Dispositions Dispositions (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 30, 2012	Dec. 29, 2013
	stores	stores	stores
Dispositions [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Sale Proceeds	$53,553	$53,553	$21,023	$18,958
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Gain (Loss) on Sale or Disposal, Pretax			-22
Dispositions [Member] | Other operating expense, net [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Gain (Loss) on Sale or Disposal, Pretax	21,948	21,948		4,705
Sale of Company-Owned Restaurants to Franchisees [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Sale Proceeds	36,238	36,238	14,059
Significant Changes, Franchises Sold	18	52	30
Goodwill, Period Increase (Decrease)		-3,344
Notes receivable from franchisees, gross, total	3,934	3,934
Surplus Properties [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Sale Proceeds	8,699	8,699	941	10,305
Corporate Aircraft [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Sale Proceeds	8,616	8,616
Sale of Restaurant to Unrelated Third Party [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Sale Proceeds			1,874
Franchisees Exercising Options to Purchase Previously Leased / Subleased Properties [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Sale Proceeds			3,550	8,653
Other Dispositions [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Sale Proceeds			599
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities [Member] | Sale of Company-Owned Restaurants to Franchisees [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Deferred Gain on Sale of Property	$5,116	$5,116

Income_Loss_Per_Share_Details

Income (Loss) Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended															12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Sep. 28, 2014		Jun. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Sep. 29, 2013		Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income from continuing operations																$121,434	$45,753	$5,574
Net (loss) income from discontinued operations																0	-266	1,509
Net income attributable to The Wendy’s Company	$23,294	[1]	$22,830	[1]	$29,007	$46,303	[1]	$33,069	[2]	($1,939)	[2]	$12,224	[2]	$2,133	[2]	$121,434	$45,487	$7,083
Common Stock:
Weighted average basic shares outstanding																370,160	392,585	390,275
Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted shares																6,022	6,095	1,865
Weighted average diluted shares outstanding																376,182	398,680	392,140
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount																4,946	10,823	23,406
[1]	The Company’s consolidated statements of operations were materially impacted by facilities action (income) charges, net and impairment of long-lived assets. The pre-tax impact of facilities action (income) charges, net for the first, third and fourth quarters of 2014 was $(44,033), $7,520 and $6,530, respectively (see Note 2 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of impairment of long-lived assets during the third and fourth quarters of 2014 was $3,408 and $7,245, respectively (see Note 15 for additional information).
[2]	The Company’s consolidated statements of operations were materially impacted by facilities action (income) charges, net, impairment of long-lived assets, impairment of goodwill and losses on early extinguishment of debt. The pre-tax impact of facilities action charges (income), net for the first, second, third and fourth quarters of 2013 was $3,038, $6,377, $22,275 and $(20,834), respectively (see Note 2 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of impairment of long-lived assets during the third and fourth quarters of 2013 was $5,327 and $10,552, respectively, (see Note 15 for additional information) and the pre-tax impact of impairment of goodwill during the fourth quarter of 2013 was $9,397 (see Note 8 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of losses on the early extinguishment of debt during the second and fourth quarters of 2013 was $21,019 and $7,544, respectively (see Note 10 for additional information).

Cash_and_Receivables_Cash_and_

Cash and Receivables Cash and Cash Equivalents (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012	Jan. 01, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash	$205,826		$174,278
Cash Equivalents	61,450		405,874
Cash and cash equivalents	267,276		580,152		453,361	475,231
Prepaids and Other Current Assets [Member]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current	17,171	[1]	18,916	[1]
Prepaids and Other Current Assets [Member] | Collateral supporting letters of credit
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current	16,843	[1]	18,593	[1]
Prepaids and Other Current Assets [Member] | Trust for Termination Costs for Former Wendy's Executives
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current	168	[1]	168	[1]
Prepaids and Other Current Assets [Member] | Other
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current	160	[1]	155	[1]
Deferred Costs and Other Assets [Member] | Trust for Termination Costs for Former Wendy's Executives
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent	$2,068	[2]	$2,969	[2]
[1]	Included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets.”
[2]	Included in “Other assets.”

Cash_and_Receivables_Accounts_

Cash and Receivables Accounts and Notes Receivable (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012	Jan. 01, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts receivable, gross, current	$71,675		$65,580
Accounts and notes receivable, gross, current	75,846		66,444
Allowance for doubtful accounts, current	-2,488		-3,559		-6,321	-4,053
Accounts and notes receivable, net, current	73,358		62,885
Allowance for doubtful accounts, noncurrent	-250		-275		-2,881	-963
Franchisees [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts receivable, gross, current	51,705		54,628
Notes receivable from franchisees, gross, current	4,171	[1],[2]	864	[1]
Notes and loans receivable from franchisees, gross, noncurrent	4,940	[2],[3]	5,568	[2],[3]
Allowance for doubtful accounts, noncurrent	-250	[3]	-275	[3]
Notes and loans receivable, net, noncurrent	4,690	[3]	5,293	[3]
Other Receivables [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts receivable, gross, current	19,970		10,952
Japan JV [Member] | Franchisees [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes receivable from franchisees, gross, current	266
Notes and loans receivable from franchisees, gross, noncurrent	2,179		2,997
Sale of Company-Owned Restaurants to Franchisees [Member] | Franchisees [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes receivable from franchisees, gross, current	3,520
Notes and loans receivable from franchisees, gross, noncurrent	414
Accounts and notes receivable [Member] | Franchisees [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Net current investment in direct financing leases	$193	[4]	$226	[4]
[1]	Includes the current portion of direct financing lease receivables of $193 and $226 as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively. See Note 19 for further information.
[2]	Includes $3,520 and $414 of notes receivable from franchisees received in connection with the sale of company-owned restaurants, which are included in current and non-current notes receivable, respectively, as of December 28, 2014. See Note 3 for further information. Also, includes $266 and $2,179 of notes receivable from a franchisee in connection with the termination of our investment in a joint venture in Japan, which are included in current and non-current notes receivable, respectively, as of December 28, 2014 and $2,997 which was included in non-current notes receivable as of December 29, 2013. See Note 6 for further information.
[3]	Included in “Other assets.”
[4]	Included in “Accounts and notes receivable.”

Cash_and_Receivables_Allowance

Cash and Receivables Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance, Current	$3,559	$6,321	$4,053
Beginning Balance, Noncurrent	275	2,881	963
Provision for Doubtful Accounts, Franchisees and other	-1,004	-574	670
Uncollectible accounts written-off, net of recoveries	-92	-4,794	-28
Ending Balance, Current	2,488	3,559	6,321
Ending Balance, Noncurrent	250	275	2,881
Allowances for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Balance	2,738	3,834	9,202
Breakfast expansion [Member]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Breakfast notes receivables fully reserved	$0	$0	$3,544

Investments_Investment_Summary

Investments Investment Summary (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Jan. 01, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Investments
Investments	$74,054	$83,197
TimWen [Member]
Schedule of Investments
Equity investment in TimWen	69,790	79,810	89,370	91,742
Other Cost Investment [Member]
Schedule of Investments
Cost investments	$4,264	$3,387

Investments_TimWen_Details

Investments TimWen (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012
Investment in Joint Venture with Partner [Roll Forward]
Equity in earnings for the period, net of amortization of purchase price adjustments	$10,176		$9,722		$8,724
Distributions received	-13,896		-14,116		-15,274
Foreign currency translation adjustment included in “Other comprehensive (loss) income, net”	-18,560		-16,271		6,096
TimWen [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	50.00%
Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity	41,213		47,476
Investment in Joint Venture with Partner [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	79,810		89,370		91,742
Equity in earnings for the period	12,802		13,793		13,680
Amortization of purchase price adjustments	-2,626	[1]	-2,981	[1]	-3,129	[1]
Equity in earnings for the period, net of amortization of purchase price adjustments	10,176		10,812		10,551
Distributions received	-13,896		-14,116		-15,274
Foreign currency translation adjustment included in “Other comprehensive (loss) income, net”	-6,300		-6,256		2,351
Balance at end of period	$69,790		$79,810		$89,370
Purchase price adjustment, amortization period	21
[1]	Based upon an average original aggregate life of 21 years.

Investments_Schedule_of_Summar

Investments Schedule of Summarized Financial Information (Details) (TimWen [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
TimWen [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Properties	$56,952	$64,520
Cash and cash equivalents	3,588	3,339
Accounts receivable	2,663	2,924
Other	2,105	2,268
Total Assets	65,308	73,051
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	1,995	1,127
Other liabilities	6,158	7,256
Partners' equity	57,155	64,668
Total liabilities and partners' equity	65,308	73,051
Revenues	36,604	38,751	39,702
Income before income taxes and net income	$25,604	$27,586	$27,377

Investments_Japan_JV_Details

Investments Japan JV (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 29, 2013	Aug. 31, 2013	Apr. 30, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
						stores	stores
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Contributions from noncontrolling interests	$219
Number of Restaurants						6,515
Japan JV [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage								49.00%
Equity in losses for the period	1,090			1,827
Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture		1,000	1,000
Contributions from noncontrolling interests		219	219
Number of Restaurants							3
Cash Payment to Japan Joint Venture, Net of Cash Acquired	4,800
Cash Acquired from Acquisition	188
Japan JV [Member] | Other operating expense, net [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Loss on disposal of the Japan JV	1,658
Japan JV [Member] | Guarantee of Indebtedness of Others [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture					2,800
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	0				0
Japan JV [Member] | Pay future obligations attributable to Higa interest [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Franchise Loans, Net					2,800
Japan JV [Member] | Future working capital need [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Franchise Loans, Net					$197

Investments_Indirect_Investmen

Investments Indirect Investment in Arby's (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Jul. 04, 2011	Dec. 28, 2014
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Proceeds from Divestiture of Business, Percentage of Buyer Stock Received				18.50%
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Proceeds from Dividends Received	$40,145	$4,625
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment Income, Dividend	21,145	4,625
Common stock [Member] | Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Noncash or Part Noncash Divestiture, Amount of Consideration Received			$19,000

Investments_Investment_in_Jurl

Investments Investment in Jurlique (Details)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 29, 2013

Sep. 29, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 28, 2014

Dec. 29, 2013

Dec. 30, 2012

Dec. 30, 2012

Feb. 02, 2012

Feb. 02, 2012

Dec. 28, 2014

Dec. 29, 2013

Dec. 30, 2012

Dec. 30, 2012

Feb. 02, 2012

Dec. 28, 2014

Dec. 29, 2013

Dec. 30, 2012

Dec. 30, 2012

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Jurl Holdings, LLC [Member]

Jurl Holdings, LLC [Member]

Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member]

Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member]

Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member]

Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member]

Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member]

Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member]

Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member]

Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member]

Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member]

Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member]

NoncontrollingInterests

NoncontrollingInterests

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Former Management [Member]

Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]

Investment Income [Member]

Investment Income [Member]

Investment Income [Member]

Investment Income [Member]

USD ($)

AUD

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]

USD ($)

Schedule of Investments [Line Items]

Investment Subsidiary, Ownership Percentage

99.70%

Proceeds from sale of investments

$2,193

$2,691

$27,949

$27,287

$1,154

$1,166

Proceeds from Sale of Other Investments, Expected

28,500

Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments

975

[1]

-799

[1]

27,769

[1]

199

-799

27,407

Loss on Derivative Instruments, Pretax

2,913

Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests

410

223

222

0

0

855

-2,384

-2,384

Net income (Loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest, income tax benefit

1,283

Number of noncontrolling interests

0

0

Distribution to noncontrolling interests

$2,384

$0

[2]

$0

[2]

$3,667

[2]

$2,296

[1]

In 2012, we recorded a gain on the sale of our investment in Jurlique of $27,407, which included a loss of $2,913 on the settlement of the derivative transaction. During 2013, we determined that $799 of the remaining escrow would not be received and recorded the reduction of our escrow receivable to “Investment income, net.” In 2014, we received a final escrow payment resulting in a net gain of $199. See Note 6 for further information.

[2]

Jurl, a 99.7% owned subsidiary, completed the sale of our investment in Jurlique in February 2012. Prior to 2009, when our predecessor entity was a diversified company active in investments, we had provided our Former Executives, and certain other former employees, equity and profit interests in Jurl. In connection with the gain on sale of Jurlique, we distributed, based on the related agreement, approximately $3,667 in 2012 to Jurl’s minority shareholders, including approximately $2,296 to the Former Executives. See Note 6 for further discussion of the sale of Jurlique.

Properties_Details

Properties (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	$1,727,880		$1,639,525
Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment	-456,642	[1]	-474,038	[1]
Properties	1,271,238		1,165,487		1,250,338
Capital Leases, Accumulated Amortization	13,151		14,911
Accelerated Depreciation and Amortization	19,353		38,190
Land
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	384,148		384,847
Buildings and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	505,218		454,805
Office, restaurant, and transportation equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	428,469		389,161
Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	365,441		374,586
Capital leases
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	$44,604	[2]	$36,126	[2]
[1]	Includes $13,151 and $14,911 of accumulated amortization related to capital leases at December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, respectively.
[2]	These assets principally include buildings and improvements.

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangible_2

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets Schedule of Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014
					stores	stores
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Goodwill		$842,544	$876,201		842,544
Restaurant dispositions		-27,571	-20,578
Restaurant acquisitions		11,455	0
Impairment	-9,397	0	-9,397	0
Currency translation adjustment and other, net		-3,866	-3,682
Ending Goodwill	842,544	822,562	842,544	876,201		822,562
System Optimization [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Restaurant dispositions						-2,035
Goodwill, Period Increase (Decrease)						$11,574
Significant Changes, Franchises Sold		203	244		174	29

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangible_3

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite Lived And Finite Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	$1,540,511	$1,487,688
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	-189,146	-181,908
Other intangible assets	1,351,365	1,305,780
Franchise Agreements [Member]
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	350,802	352,339
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	-104,596	-88,281
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	246,206	264,058
Favorable Leases
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	192,854	140,619
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	-43,231	-41,625
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	149,623	98,994
Reacquired Rights under Franchise Agreements [Member]
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	8,685	23,065
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	-1,109	-21,219
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	7,576	1,846
Computer Software, Intangible Asset [Member]
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	85,170	68,665
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	-40,210	-30,783
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	44,960	37,882
Trademarks [Member]
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	903,000	903,000
Accumulated Amortization, Indefinite Lived Assets	0	0
System Optimization [Member] | Reacquired Rights under Franchise Agreements [Member] | Accelerated Depreciation and Amortization [Member]
Schedule of Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	($474)	($16,907)

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangible_4

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets Aggregate Amortization Expense (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of Intangible Assets	$42,300	[1]	$55,516	[1]	$32,713	[1]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	41,608
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two	38,702
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	37,472
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	35,422
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five	31,416
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five	263,745
Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	1,399		792		1,757
System Optimization Remeasurement	8,628		20,506		0
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	189,146		181,908
Favorable Leases
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	43,231		41,625
Reacquired Rights under Franchise Agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	1,109		21,219
System Optimization [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
System Optimization Remeasurement	8,628	[2]	20,506	[2]
System Optimization [Member] | Favorable Leases
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
System Optimization Remeasurement	2,211		1,678
System Optimization [Member] | Accelerated Depreciation and Amortization [Member] | Reacquired Rights under Franchise Agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	$474		$16,907
[1]	Includes $1,399, $792 and $1,757 of impairment charges related to other intangible assets in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Also, 2014 and 2013 include System Optimization Remeasurement of $2,211 and $1,678, respectively, and accelerated amortization on previously acquired franchise rights in territories sold as a part of our system optimization initiative of $474 and $16,907, respectively.
[2]	Includes remeasurement of land, buildings, leasehold improvements and favorable lease assets at all company-owned restaurants included in our system optimization initiative. See Note 11 for more information on non-recurring fair value measurements.

Accrued_Expenses_and_Other_Cur2

Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities Accrued Expenses (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accrued compensation and related benefits	$43,139		$68,394
Accrued taxes	23,581		21,791
Accrued pension	12,781	[1]	13,513	[1]
Other	61,175		56,402
Accrued Liabilities, Current	$140,676		$160,100
[1]	Represents a liability resulting from our company-owned bakery’s withdrawal from a multiemployer pension plan in the fourth quarter of 2013. See Note 18 for more information.

LongTerm_Debt_Schedule_of_Long

Long-Term Debt Schedule of Long Term Debt (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 29, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Dec. 28, 2014

Dec. 29, 2013

Dec. 30, 2012

15-May-12

Oct. 24, 2013

Jul. 31, 2012

16-May-13

Sep. 30, 2008

Dec. 31, 2010

Sep. 24, 2013

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations

$1,463,828

$1,448,143

$1,463,828

Less amounts payable within one year

-38,543

-53,777

-38,543

Total long-term debt

1,425,285

1,394,366

1,425,285

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

7,544

21,019

0

28,563

75,076

Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount

17,060

Term A Loans, due in 2018 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations

570,625

[1]

541,733

[1]

570,625

[1]

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

350,000

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End

2.41%

Term B Loans, due 2019 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations

767,452

[1]

759,758

[1]

767,452

[1]

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

1,125,000

769,375

Issuance Amount, Percent of Principal

99.00%

Original Issue Discount, Percentage

1.00%

Proceeds from Issuance of Debt

1,113,750

Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount

11,250

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

21,019

Debt Instrument, Unused Borrowing Capacity, Amount

275,000

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End

3.25%

Term B Loans, due 2019 [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Deferred Finance Costs, Noncurrent, Gross

15,566

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

200,000

7% debentures, due in 2025 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations

84,666

[2]

85,853

[2]

84,666

[2]

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

100,000

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End

8.60%

Other [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations

353

0

353

Term Loan, 2010 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

650,000

Collateral Supporting Letters of Credit [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount

16,843

Incremental Term Loans [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Proceeds from Issuance of Debt

225,000

Debt Instrument, Unused Borrowing Capacity, Amount

225,000

Term Loan, 2013 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

7,544

Foreign Subsidiary Stock Securing Debt, Percentage

65.00%

Term Loan, 2013 [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Deferred Finance Costs, Noncurrent, Gross

7,961

7,961

6.20% Senior Notes [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage

6.20%

Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage

103.80%

10.0% Senior Notes [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage

10.00%

Debt Instrument, Redemption Amount

440,775

Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage

107.50%

Debt Instrument, Repurchase Amount

124,225

Debt Instrument, Repurchase Price, Percentage

108.13%

Fair Value Hedging [Member] | 6.20% Senior Notes [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Derivative Asset, Notional Amount

225,000

Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Restated Credit Agreement, Revolver [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding

0

0

0

Letter of Credit [Member] | Restated Credit Agreement, Revolver [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity

70,000

Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage

0.50%

Collateral Supporting Letters of Credit [Member] | Restated Credit Agreement, Revolver [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity

40,000

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Term A Loans, due in 2018 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate

2.25%

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Term B Loans, due 2019 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate

2.50%

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum

0.75%

Capital lease obligations, due through 2042 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt and Capital Lease Obligations

$40,732

$60,799

$40,732

[1]

On May 15, 2012, Wendy’s entered into a Credit Agreement, as amended (the “Credit Agreement”) which included, among other instruments, a senior secured term loan facility of $1,125,000 (“Term B Loans”). The Term B Loans were issued at 99.0% of the principal amount, representing an original issue discount of 1.0% resulting in net proceeds of $1,113,750. The discount of $11,250 was accreted and the related charge included in “Interest expense” through the subsequent refinancing described below. During the year ended December 30, 2012, Wendy’s incurred $15,566 in costs related to the Credit Agreement, which were amortized to “Interest expense” through the subsequent refinancing described below utilizing the effective interest rate method. The Credit Agreement replaced the $650,000 credit agreement and the amended senior secured term loan (the “2010 Term Loan”) executed in 2010.On May 16, 2013, Wendy’s amended and restated the Credit Agreement (the “Restated Credit Agreement”). The Restated Credit Agreement is comprised of (1) a $350,000 senior secured term loan facility (“Term A Loans”) which will mature on May 15, 2018 and bears interest at the Eurodollar Rate (as defined in the Restated Credit Agreement) plus 2.25%, (2) $769,375 Term B Loans which will mature on May 15, 2019 and bear interest at the Eurodollar Rate plus 2.50% with a floor of 0.75% and (3) a $200,000 senior secured revolving credit facility which will mature on May 15, 2018. The proceeds from the Term A Loans were used to refinance a portion of our existing Term B Loans. As a result of this refinancing, Wendy’s incurred a loss on the early extinguishment of debt of $21,019 during the second quarter of 2013 which consisted of the write-off of the unaccreted discount on Term B Loans and the deferred costs associated with the Credit Agreement, as illustrated in the table below. The Restated Credit Agreement also contains provisions for an uncommitted increase of up to $275,000 principal amount of the Term B Loans subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions. The revolving credit facility includes a sub-facility for the issuance of up to $70,000 of letters of credit and allows for liens in the form of cash collateralized letters of credit up to an additional $40,000. The obligations under the Restated Credit Agreement are secured by substantially all of the non-real estate assets and stock of Wendy’s and its domestic subsidiaries (other than certain unrestricted subsidiaries) and 65% of the stock of certain of its foreign subsidiaries in each case subject to certain limitations and exceptions.On September 24, 2013, Wendy’s entered into an amendment (the “Amendment”) to its Restated Credit Agreement to borrow an aggregate principal amount of up to $225,000 of additional Term A Loans (“Incremental Term Loans”). The Amendment does not contain any material changes to existing covenants or other terms of the Restated Credit Agreement, except as described in the preceding sentence. On October 24, 2013, Wendy’s borrowed $225,000 of Incremental Term Loans under the Amendment.The Term B Loans, Term A Loans and Incremental Term Loans (collectively, the “Term Loans”) are payable in quarterly installments which commenced on December 31, 2012, September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2013, respectively, with the remaining balances payable upon maturity. In addition, the Term Loans require prepayments of principal amounts resulting from certain events and excess cash flow on an annual basis from Wendy’s as defined under the Restated Credit Agreement. An excess cash flow payment was not required for fiscal 2014, 2013 or 2012. An unused commitment fee of 50 basis points per annum is payable quarterly on the average unused amount of the revolving credit facility until the maturity date. During the third quarter of 2013, Wendy’s transitioned the security for all of its outstanding letters of credit from the revolving credit facility to cash collateral. Therefore, as of December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, there were no amounts outstanding under the revolving credit facility. As of December 28, 2014, the Company had outstanding cash collateralized letters of credit with various parties of $16,843. The interest rates on Term A Loans and Term B Loans were 2.41% and 3.25%, respectively, as of December 28, 2014.During the year ended December 29, 2013, Wendy’s incurred $7,961 in costs related to the Restated Credit Agreement and the Amendment, which are being amortized to “Interest expense” through the maturity of the Term Loans utilizing the effective interest rate method. Proceeds from the Incremental Term Loans, plus cash on hand, were used to redeem all amounts outstanding on the aggregate principal amount of the Wendy’s 6.20% Senior Notes due in 2014 (the “6.20% Senior Notes”) at a price equal to 103.8%, as defined in the 6.20% Senior Notes and accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. In connection with the redemption of the 6.20% Senior Notes, Wendy’s terminated the related interest rate swaps with notional amounts totaling $225,000 which had been designated as fair value hedges. See Note 11 for more information on the interest rate swaps. As a result, Wendy’s recognized a loss on the early extinguishment of debt of $7,544 during the fourth quarter of 2013 which consisted of (1) a premium payment, as defined in the 6.20% Senior Notes, (2) the remaining fair value adjustment previously recorded in connection with the Wendy’s merger, partially offset by (3) a benefit from the cumulative effect of our fair value hedges, as illustrated in the table below.During the year ended December 30, 2012, proceeds from the Term B Loans were used (1) to repay all amounts outstanding under the 2010 Term Loan, (2) to redeem the Wendy’s Restaurants 10.00% Senior Notes due 2016 (the “Senior Notes”) in the amounts of $440,775 aggregate principal at a redemption price of 107.5% of the principal amount in July 2012 and to purchase $124,225 aggregate principal at a purchase price of 108.125% of the principal amount in May 2012, both plus accrued and unpaid interest and (3) to pay substantially all of the Credit Agreement fees and expenses.As a result of the refinancings described above, the Company incurred losses on the early extinguishment of debt as follows: Year End 2013 2012Unaccreted discount on Term B Loans$9,561 $—Deferred costs associated with the Credit Agreement11,458 —Unaccreted fair value adjustment associated with the 6.20% Senior Notes3,168 —Benefit from cumulative effect of the fair value hedges(4,063) —Premium payment to redeem/purchase the 6.20% Senior Notes and the Senior Notes, respectively8,439 43,151Unaccreted discount on the Senior Notes— 9,272Deferred costs associated with the Senior Notes— 12,433Unaccreted discount on the 2010 Term Loan— 1,695Deferred costs associated with the 2010 Term Loan— 8,525Loss on early extinguishment of debt$28,563 $75,076The affirmative and negative covenants in the Restated Credit Agreement include, among others, preservation of corporate existence; payment of taxes; maintenance of insurance; and limitations on: indebtedness (including guarantee obligations of other indebtedness); liens; mergers, consolidations, liquidations and dissolutions; sales of assets; dividends and other payments in respect of capital stock; investments; payments of certain indebtedness; transactions with affiliates; changes in fiscal year; negative pledge clauses and clauses restricting subsidiary distributions; and material changes in lines of business. The financial covenants contained in the Restated Credit Agreement are (1) a consolidated interest coverage ratio and (2) a consolidated senior secured leverage ratio. Wendy’s was in compliance with the covenants of the Restated Credit Agreement as of December 28, 2014. The covenants generally do not restrict The Wendy’s Company or any of its subsidiaries that are not subsidiaries of Wendy’s.

[2]

Wendy’s 7% debentures are unsecured and were reduced to fair value in connection with the Wendy’s merger based on their outstanding principal of $100,000 and an effective interest rate of 8.6%. The fair value adjustment is being accreted and the related charge included in “Interest expense” until the debentures mature. These debentures contain covenants that restrict the incurrence of indebtedness secured by liens and certain capitalized lease transactions. Wendy’s was in compliance with these covenants as of December 28, 2014.

LongTerm_Debt_Maturities_of_lo

Long-Term Debt Maturities of long-term debt (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
2015	$53,777
2016	59,117
2017	66,290
2018	397,364
2019	731,060
Thereafter	154,682
Total long-term debt, Gross	$1,462,290

LongTerm_Debt_Early_Extinguish

Long-Term Debt Early Extinguishment (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	$7,544	$21,019	$0	$28,563	$75,076
Term B Loans, due 2019 [Member]
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Write Off of Unaccreted Discount				9,561	0
Write Off Of Deferred Debt Issuance Costs				11,458	0
Loss on early extinguishment of debt		21,019
6.20% Senior Notes [Member]
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Unaccreted Fair Value Adjustment on Debt				3,168	0
Premium payment to redeem/purchase Senior Notes				8,439
6.20% Senior Notes [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Benefit from Cumulative Effect of Fair Value Hedges				-4,063	0
10.0% Senior Notes [Member]
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Write Off of Unaccreted Discount				0	9,272
Write Off Of Deferred Debt Issuance Costs				0	12,433
Premium payment to redeem/purchase Senior Notes					43,151
Term Loan, 2010 [Member]
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Write Off of Unaccreted Discount				0	1,695
Write Off Of Deferred Debt Issuance Costs				$0	$8,525

LongTerm_Debt_Other_Longterm_D

Long-Term Debt Other Long-term Debt Disclosure (Details)	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Wendy's U.S. Advertising Fund [Member]	Canadian Subsidiary [Member]
	USD ($)	CAD
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$25,000	6,000

LongTerm_Debt_Pledged_Assets_D

Long-Term Debt Pledged Assets (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pledged Assets, Not Separately Reported On Statement Of Financial Position [Line Items]
Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position	$2,460,358
Cash and cash equivalents [Member]
Pledged Assets, Not Separately Reported On Statement Of Financial Position [Line Items]
Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position	167,485
Accounts and notes receivable (including long-term) [Member]
Pledged Assets, Not Separately Reported On Statement Of Financial Position [Line Items]
Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position	68,464
Inventories [Member]
Pledged Assets, Not Separately Reported On Statement Of Financial Position [Line Items]
Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position	8,807
Properties [Member]
Pledged Assets, Not Separately Reported On Statement Of Financial Position [Line Items]
Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position	272,505
Goodwill [Member]
Pledged Assets, Not Separately Reported On Statement Of Financial Position [Line Items]
Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position	710,710
Other intangible assets [Member]
Pledged Assets, Not Separately Reported On Statement Of Financial Position [Line Items]
Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position	1,201,742
Other assets (including long-term) [Member]
Pledged Assets, Not Separately Reported On Statement Of Financial Position [Line Items]
Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position	$30,645

Fair_Value_Measurements_Financ

Fair Value Measurements Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash equivalents	$61,450		$405,874
Non-current cost method investments	4,264		3,387	[1]
Cash flow hedges asset	0		1,212
Cash flow hedges liability	3,343		0
Guarantees of franchisee loans	968	[2]	884	[2]
Reported Value Measurement [Member] | Term A Loan, 2018 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	541,733		570,625
Reported Value Measurement [Member] | Term B Loan, 2019 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	759,758		767,452
Reported Value Measurement [Member] | Debentures, 7% [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	85,853		84,666
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash equivalents	61,450		405,874
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Non-current cost method investments	147,760	[1]	130,433	[1]
Guarantees of franchisee loans	968	[2]	884	[2]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash flow hedges asset	0		1,212	[3]
Cash flow hedges liability	3,343	[3]	0
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] | Term A Loan, 2018 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	540,717	[4]	569,555	[4]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] | Term B Loan, 2019 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	752,160	[4]	767,452	[4]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] | Debentures, 7% [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	104,250	[4]	98,250	[4]
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member] | Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Non-current cost method investments			$0
[1]	The fair value of our indirect investment in Arby’s is based on applying a multiple to Arby’s earnings before income taxes, depreciation and amortization per its current unaudited financial information. The carrying value of our indirect investment in Arby’s was reduced to zero during 2013 in connection with the receipt of a dividend. See Note 6 for more information. The fair values of our remaining investments are not significant and are based on our review of information provided by the investment managers or investees which was based on (1) valuations performed by the investment managers or investees, (2) quoted market or broker/dealer prices for similar investments and (3) quoted market or broker/dealer prices adjusted by the investment managers for legal or contractual restrictions, risk of nonperformance or lack of marketability, depending upon the underlying investments.
[2]	Wendy’s has provided loan guarantees to various lenders on behalf of franchisees entering into debt arrangements for new restaurant development and equipment financing. In addition during 2012, Wendy’s provided a guarantee to a lender for a franchisee in connection with the refinancing of the franchisee’s debt. We have accrued a liability for the fair value of these guarantees, the calculation of which was based upon a weighted average risk percentage established at inception adjusted for a history of defaults.
[3]	The fair values were developed using market observable data for all significant inputs.
[4]	The fair values were based on quoted market prices in markets that are not considered active markets.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Deriva

Fair Value Measurements Derivative Instruments (Details) (USD $)	10 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 24, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
		cash_flow_hedge	cash_flow_hedge
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held		7	7
Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net		$0
Proceeds from termination of interest rate swaps		0	5,708	0
Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net	0
Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Other liabilities [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Cash flow hedges liability		3,343
Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Deferred costs and other assets | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Cash flow hedges asset			1,212
Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Loss on derivatives, net, pretax, next twelve months		586
Term A Loan, 2018 [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount		350,000	350,000
Term B Loan, 2019 [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount		100,000	100,000
6.20% Senior Notes [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	6.20%
6.20% Senior Notes [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	225,000
6.20% Senior Notes [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Benefit from Cumulative Effect of Fair Value Hedges			4,063	0
Proceeds from termination of interest rate swaps			5,708
Interest and Other Income			4,319	5,510
6.20% Senior Notes [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Loss on early extinguishment of debt [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Benefit from Cumulative Effect of Fair Value Hedges			4,063
6.20% Senior Notes [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	$225,000

Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V

Fair Value Measurements Fair Value of Items Measured on Nonrecurring Basis (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended					3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012	Apr. 01, 2012
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
System Optimization Remeasurement					$8,628		$20,506		$0
Impairment of long-lived assets	7,245	3,408	10,552	5,327	10,985		15,879		21,097
Impairment of goodwill			9,397		0		9,397		0
Impairment of long-lived assets					19,613		31,058
Impairment of long-lived assets, nonrecurring					19,613		45,782		21,097
System Optimization [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
System Optimization Remeasurement					8,628	[1]	20,506	[1]
Properties and Other Intangible Assets, Operating Restaurants [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Impairment of long-lived assets					5,146		9,094
Properties and Other Intangible Assets, Franchisee Leased / Subleased Assets [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Impairment of long-lived assets					3,365
Properties and Other Intangible Assets, Surplus Properties and Non-SO Held-for-sale [Member] [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Impairment of long-lived assets					2,474		1,458
Corporate Aircraft [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Impairment of long-lived assets							5,327			1,628
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	13,618		14,788		13,618		14,788
Goodwill			0				0
Total	13,618		23,288		13,618		23,288
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Corporate Aircraft [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Aircraft			8,500				8,500
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	0		0		0		0
Goodwill			0				0
Total	0		0		0		0
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Corporate Aircraft [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Aircraft			0				0
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	0		0		0		0
Goodwill			0				0
Total	0		0		0		0
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Corporate Aircraft [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Aircraft			0				0
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	13,618		14,788		13,618		14,788
Goodwill			0				0
Total	13,618		23,288		13,618		23,288
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Corporate Aircraft [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Aircraft			8,500				8,500
Facilities action charges, net [Member] | Properties and Other Intangible Assets, Franchisee Leased / Subleased Assets [Member] | System Optimization [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
System Optimization Remeasurement					$8,628		$20,506
[1]	Includes remeasurement of land, buildings, leasehold improvements and favorable lease assets at all company-owned restaurants included in our system optimization initiative. See Note 11 for more information on non-recurring fair value measurements.

Income_Taxes_Schedule_of_Domes

Income Taxes Schedule of Domestic and Foreign Income before Income Tax and Noncontrolling Interests (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interests [Line Items]
Domestic	$181,872	$49,635	($23,154)
Foreign	19,397	9,417	10,029
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	$201,269	$59,052	($13,125)

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Prov

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Provision For) Benefit from Continuing Operations (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Schedule of components of income tax benefit (provision) [Line Items]
Deferred tax (provision) benefit	($69,540)	($12,853)	$31,598
Income tax (provision) benefit	-79,835	-14,154	21,083
Continuing Operations [Member]
Schedule of components of income tax benefit (provision) [Line Items]
U.S. Federal	6,087	-1,603	104
State	-8,289	7,879	-669
Foreign	-8,093	-7,446	-8,667
Current tax provision	-10,295	-1,170	-9,232
U.S. Federal	-70,246	-21,103	6,458
State	233	6,173	18,026
Foreign	473	1,946	5,831
Deferred tax (provision) benefit	-69,540	-12,984	30,315
Income tax (provision) benefit	($79,835)	($14,154)	$21,083

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Defe

Income Taxes Income Taxes Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred Tax Assets
Net operating loss and credit carryforwards	$82,143	$115,910
Accrued compensation and related benefits	40,268	40,289
Unfavorable leases	34,140	13,913
Accrued expenses and reserves	23,336	31,555
Deferred rent	15,214	13,121
Other	9,122	8,682
Valuation allowances	-11,213	-10,548	-21,052
Total deferred tax assets	193,010	212,922
Deferred Tax Liabilities
Intangible assets	-506,251	-473,011
Owned and leased fixed assets net of related obligations	-89,117	-83,352
Other	-17,824	-18,996
Total deferred tax liabilities	-613,192	-575,359
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	($420,182)	($362,437)

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Net_

Income Taxes Income Taxes Net Operating Losses and Tax Credits (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Summary of Net Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards [Line Items]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount	$92,953
Exercise of Stock Options and Vesting of Restricted Awards, Aggregate Deductions	142,422
Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Recognized	9,363
Deferred Tax Asset Not Recognized, Amount of Unrecognized Deferred Tax Asset, Compensation and Benefits	51,786
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	11,213	10,548	21,052
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount	665	-10,504	3,655
Reversal of Deferred Tax Liability Relating to Investment in Foreign Subsidiaries		1,832
Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries	63,800
Deferred Tax Liability Not Recognized, Amount of Unrecognized Deferred Tax Liability, Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries	6,100
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Summary of Net Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards [Line Items]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount	90,136
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Summary of Net Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards [Line Items]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount	504
Net Operating Loss Carryforwards	1,087,272
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Summary of Net Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards [Line Items]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount	2,313
Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] | Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Summary of Net Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating Loss Carryforwards	$124,566

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Effe

Income Taxes Income Taxes Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Line Items]
Income tax (provision) benefit at the U.S. Federal statutory rate	($70,444)		($20,668)		$4,594
State income tax (provision) benefit, net of U.S. Federal income tax effect	-5,309		-1,370		11,364
Foreign and U.S. tax effects of foreign operations	4,089		2,886	[1]	347
Job tax credits, net	2,084		4,384		970
Dividends received deduction	0		1,424	[2]	1,133	[2]
Corrections related to prior years' tax matters	0		0		7,620	[3]
Non-deductible goodwill	-9,389	[4]	-9,875	[4]	0
Valuation allowances	-665	[5]	10,504	[5]	-3,655	[5]
Non-deductible expenses and other, net	-201		-1,439		-1,290
(Provision for) benefit from income taxes	-79,835		-14,154		21,083
System Optimization [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Line Items]
Non-deductible goodwill	-4,914		-7,471
Foreign Tax Authority [Member] | System Optimization [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Line Items]
(Provision for) benefit from income taxes			-70
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | System Optimization [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Line Items]
(Provision for) benefit from income taxes			-5,122
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Line Items]
Proceeds from Dividends Received			40,145		4,625
Effects of Tax Depreciation In States That Do Not Follow Federal Law [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Line Items]
Corrections related to prior years' tax matters					3,300
One-Time Federal Employment Tax Credit [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Line Items]
Corrections related to prior years' tax matters					2,220
Correction to Certain Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Line Items]
Corrections related to prior years' tax matters					$2,100
[1]	2013 includes reversal of deferred taxes on investments in foreign subsidiaries now considered permanently invested outside of the U.S.
[2]	We received dividends of $40,145 and $4,625 during 2013 and 2012, respectively, from our investment in Arby’s. See Note 6 for further information.
[3]	Corrections in 2012 related to tax matters in prior years for the effects of tax depreciation in states that do not follow federal law of $3,300, the effects of a one-time federal employment tax credit in 2011 of $2,220 and a correction to certain deferred tax assets and liabilities of $2,100.
[4]	Substantially all of the goodwill included in the gain on sales of restaurants in 2014 and 2013, including under our system optimization initiative as noted below, and the impairment of international goodwill in 2013 was non-deductible for tax purposes. See Notes 2, 3 and 8 for further information.
[5]	Includes changes for deferred tax assets generated or utilized during the current year and changes in our judgment regarding the likelihood of the utilization of deferred tax assets. 2013 primarily relates to changes in the likelihood of the utilization of deferred tax assets related to state net operating loss carryforwards.

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Unre

Income Taxes Income Taxes Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Ending Balance		$25,715	$23,897	$28,848
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]		18,762
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Beginning Balance	23,897	23,897	28,848	30,614
Tax positions of prior years, additions		2,678	3,579	3,410
Tax positions of prior years, reductions		-582	-4,914	-2,964
Settlements, reductions		0	-2,416	-1,327
Lapse of statute of limitations, reductions		-278	-1,200	-885
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Ending Balance		25,715	23,897	28,848
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification	6,214
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease), due to Amended State Tax Returns		2,627
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Estimated Range of Change, Upper Bound		5,836
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Expense		315	-835	-584
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties Expense		-330	-672	-204
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued		2,949	2,634
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties Accrued		$657	$987

Stockholders_Equity_Details

Stockholders' Equity (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			2 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Feb. 19, 2014	Jun. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Feb. 18, 2015	Aug. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2012
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid			$0.21	$0.18	$0.10
Number of Shares, beginning of year		470,424	470,424	470,424	470,424
Number of Shares, end of year			470,424	470,424	470,424
Stockholders' Equity Activity
Repurchases of common stock	29,730		2,986	8,720	0
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount							$100,000	$275,000	$100,000
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method, excluding Commissions	275,000		23,889	69,167
Stock Repurchase Program, Purchase Commissions			52	153
Stock Repurchase Program, Cost Incurred		2,275
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized			100,000	100,000	100,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued			0	0	0
Amount of Restricted Net Assets for Consolidated Subsidiaries			843,000
Restricted Net Assets as Percentage of Consolidated Equity			49.00%
Cash Dividends Paid to Parent Company by Consolidated Subsidiaries			210,000	170,000	0
Subsequent Event [Member]
Stockholders' Equity Activity
Repurchases of common stock						545
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method, excluding Commissions						5,996
Stock Repurchase Program, Purchase Commissions						$10
Common Stock Held in Treasury
Stockholders' Equity Activity
Number of Shares at beginning of year		77,637	77,637	78,051	80,700
Repurchases of common stock			32,716	8,720	0
Common shares issued, stock options, net			-4,930	-8,771	-2,079
Common shares issued, restricted stock, net			-732	-202	-211
Common shares issued, Director fees			-24	-35	-45
Common shares issued, Other			-53	-126	-314
Number of Shares at end of year			104,614	77,637	78,051

Stockholders_Equity_Accumulate

Stockholders' Equity Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Jan. 01, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	($31,294)	($10,337)	$5,981	$102
Current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	-20,957	-16,318	5,879
Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-28,363	-9,803	7,197	1,101
Current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	-18,560	-17,000	6,096
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-2,044	744	0	0
Current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	-2,788	744	0
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-887	-1,278	-1,216	-999
Current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	$391	($62)	($217)

ShareBased_Compensation_Detail

Share-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period	10 years
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	3 years
Share-based Compensation, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Outstanding, beginning of period	20,533
Granted	5,346
Exercised	-5,338
Forfeitured and/or expired	-973
Outstanding, end of period	19,568	20,533
Vested or expected to vest, end of period	19,219
Exercisable, end of period	7,787
Weighted average exercise price, outstanding at beginning of period	$6.58
Weighted average exercise price, granted	$8.22
Weighted average exercise price, exercised	$6.46
Weighted average exercise price, forfeited and/or expired	$8.55
Weighted average exercise price, outstanding at end of period	$6.96	$6.58
Weighted average exercise price, vested or expected to vest	$6.96
Weighted average exercise price, exercisable	$6.94
Weighted average remaining contractual life in years, outstanding	6 years 10 months 24 days
Weighted average remaining contractual life in years, vested or expected to vest	6 years 10 months 24 days
Weighted average remaining contractual life in years, exercisable	4 years 2 months 12 days
Aggregate intrinsic value, outstanding	$44,002
Aggregate intrinsic value, vested or expected to vest	43,325
Aggregate intrinsic value, exercisable	21,132
Total intrinsic value, exercises in period	$13,948	$28,038	$2,280
Weighted average grant date fair value, granted	$2.34	$2.72	$1.80
Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract]
Risk-free interest rate	1.97%	1.60%	0.98%
Expected option life in years	6 years 4 months 6 days	5 years 7 months 12 days	6 years 7 months 12 days
Expected volatility	35.40%	45.60%	45.90%
Expected dividend yield	2.43%	2.52%	1.71%
2010 Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant	26,765

ShareBased_Compensation_Restri

Share-Based Compensation Restricted Shares (Details) (Restricted Stock [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Non-vested, beginning of period	2,300
Granted	994
Vested	-620
Forfeited	-231
Non-vested, end of period	2,443	2,300
Weighted average grant date fair value, non-vested, beginning of period	$5.75
Weighted average grant date fair value, granted	$8.38
Weighted average grant date fair value, vested	$5.38
Weighted average grant date fair value, forfeited	$6.81
Weighted average grant date fair value, non-vested, end of period	$6.80	$5.75
Total fair value, vested in period	$5,251	$2,275	$2,023
Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	1 year
Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	3 years

ShareBased_Compensation_Perfor

Share-Based Compensation Performance Shares (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Share-based Compensation, Performance Shares, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Weighted average grant date fair value, dividend equivalent units issued	$0	[1]
Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Performance Shares, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Total fair value, vested in period				0
Performance Condition Award [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Performance Shares, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Non-vested, beginning of period	531
Granted	454			0
Dividend equivalent units issued	22	[1]
Vested	-11
Forfeited	-63
Non-vested, end of period	933		531
Weighted average grant date fair value, non-vested, beginning of period	$7.92
Weighted average grant date fair value, granted	$9.74
Weighted average grant date fair value, dividend equivalent units issued	$0	[1]
Weighted average grant date fair value, vested	$7.92
Weighted average grant date fair value, forfeited	$8.31
Weighted average grant date fair value, non-vested, end of period	$8.81		$7.92
Total fair value, vested in period	104		1,767
Market Condition Performance Award [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate				0.41%
Expected life in years				2 years 11 months 26 days
Expected volatility				34.00%
Expected dividend yield				0.00%	[2]
Share-based Compensation, Performance Shares, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Non-vested, beginning of period	1,522
Granted	0		0
Dividend equivalent units issued	23	[1]
Vested	-706	[3]
Forfeited	-171
Non-vested, end of period	668		1,522
Weighted average grant date fair value, non-vested, beginning of period	$6.52
Weighted average grant date fair value, granted	$0
Weighted average grant date fair value, dividend equivalent units issued	$0	[1]
Weighted average grant date fair value, vested	$6.96
Weighted average grant date fair value, forfeited	$6.53
Weighted average grant date fair value, non-vested, end of period	$6.04		$6.52
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Incremental Above Target	54
Total fair value, vested in period	$6,382		$289
Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Performance Shares, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Performance Shares Vesting Range, Percentage of Target	0.00%
Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Performance Shares, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Performance Shares Vesting Range, Percentage of Target	200.00%
[1]	Dividend equivalent units are issued in lieu of cash dividends for non-vested performance shares. There is no weighted average fair value associated with dividend equivalent units.
[2]	The Monte Carlo method assumes a reinvestment of dividends.
[3]	Excludes the vesting of an additional 54 shares, which resulted from the performance of market condition awards exceeding Target.

ShareBased_Compensation_Modifi

Share-Based Compensation Modifications of Share-Based Awards (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
	employees	employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of employees subject to modification	45	20
Increase in employee share-based compensation due to award modification	$2,376	$986
Share-based Compensation	28,243	19,613	11,473
Facilities action charges, net [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Increase in employee share-based compensation due to award modification	4,472	1,253
Modified Awards [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation	2,376	1,042	-45
Modified Awards [Member] | General and Administrative Expense [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation	-2,096	-267
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation	$13,820	$7,300	$5,578

ShareBased_Compensation_Shareb

Share-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation Expense (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation	$28,243	$19,613	$11,473
Income tax benefit	-10,429	-7,295	-4,286
Share-based compensation, net of income tax benefit	17,814	12,318	7,187
Total share-based compensation not yet recognized, non-vested awards	20,076
Total share-based compensation not yet recognized, period for recognition, non-vested awards	2 years 2 months 6 days
Stock Options [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation	13,820	7,300	5,578
Restricted Stock [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation	4,554	3,985	2,730
Performance Condition Award [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation	7,456	2,007	0
Market Condition Performance Award [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation	37	5,279	3,210
Modified Awards [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation	$2,376	$1,042	($45)

Impairment_of_LongLived_Assets2

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Apr. 01, 2012
							stores
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Impairment of long-lived assets	$7,245	$3,408	$10,552	$5,327	$10,985	$15,879	$21,097
Loss on disposition of assets					-21,948	-4,705	0
Number of restaurants closed							15
Other operating expense, net [Member]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Business exit costs							1,477
Impairment of long-lived assets [Member]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Impairment of long-lived assets					10,985	15,879	21,097
Corporate Aircraft [Member]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Impairment of long-lived assets						5,327		1,628
Loss on disposition of assets					261
Corporate Aircraft [Member] | Impairment of long-lived assets [Member]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Impairment of long-lived assets					0	5,327	1,628
Properties and Other Intangible Assets, Franchisee Leased / Subleased Assets [Member]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Impairment of long-lived assets					3,365
Properties and Other Intangible Assets, Surplus Properties and Non-SO Held-for-sale [Member] [Member]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Impairment of long-lived assets							3,270
Properties and Other Intangible Assets [Member] | Impairment of long-lived assets [Member]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Impairment of long-lived assets					$10,985	$10,552	$19,469

Investment_Income_Net_Details

Investment Income, Net (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on sale of investments, net	$975	[1]	($799)	[1]	$27,769	[1]
Distributions, including dividends	184		24,113	[2]	8,463	[2]
Other Investment Income (Expense)	40		251		11
Investment income, net	1,199		23,565		36,243
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member]
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Proceeds from Dividends Received			40,145		4,625
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Investment Income, Dividend			21,145		4,625
Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on sale of investments, net	199		-799		27,407
Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member] | Investment Income [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Loss on Derivative Instruments, Pretax					$2,913
[1]	In 2012, we recorded a gain on the sale of our investment in Jurlique of $27,407, which included a loss of $2,913 on the settlement of the derivative transaction. During 2013, we determined that $799 of the remaining escrow would not be received and recorded the reduction of our escrow receivable to “Investment income, net.” In 2014, we received a final escrow payment resulting in a net gain of $199. See Note 6 for further information.
[2]	During 2013, we received a dividend of $40,145 from our investment in Arby’s, of which $21,145 was recognized in “Investment income, net,” with the remainder recorded as a reduction to the carrying value of our investment in Arby’s. During 2012, we received a dividend of $4,625 from our investment in Arby’s, which was included in “Investment income, net.” See Note 6 for further information.

Discontinued_Operations_Detail

Discontinued Operations (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Jul. 04, 2011
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes:
(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of taxes					$0	($266)	$1,951
Loss on disposal of discontinued operations, net of income taxes					0	0	-442
Net (loss) income from discontinued operations	-266	0	0	0	0	-266	1,509
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Percentage of Stock Divested								100.00%
Proceeds from sale of Arby's, net								130,000
Proceeds from Divestiture of Business, Percentage of Buyer Stock Received					18.50%
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets of Disposal Group	0				0	0
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities of Disposal Group	0				0	0
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes:
(Loss) income from discontinued operations before income taxes						-425	907
Benefit from income taxes						159	1,044
(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of taxes						-266	1,951
Loss on disposal of discontinued operations, net of income taxes						0	-442
Net (loss) income from discontinued operations						-266	1,509
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member] | Discontinued Operations [Member]
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes:
Income Tax Credits and Adjustments							580
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member] | Common stock [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Noncash or Part Noncash Divestiture, Amount of Consideration Received								19,000
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member] | Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Noncash or Part Noncash Divestiture, Amount of Consideration Received								$190,000

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Defin

Retirement Benefit Plans Defined Contribution Plan (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee, Percent	75.00%
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent	4.00%
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized	$7,023	$8,235	$8,887

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Defin1

Retirement Benefit Plans Defined Benefit Plans (Details) (Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Jul. 31, 2011
	Pension_Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plans, Number of Plans	2
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost	$0
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation	4,080	3,797
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	3,065	2,924
General and Administrative Expense [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension Expense	126	175	42
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Proceeds Received from Buyer for Unfunded Liability				$400

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Multi

Retirement Benefit Plans Multiemployer Pension Plan (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Multiemployer Plan, Withdrawal Obligation Payments	$719
Cost of Sales [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions		733	785
Multiemployer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation		$13,500

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Execu

Retirement Benefit Plans Executive Plan (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, by Type of Compensation, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits [Member] | Accrued expenses and other current liabilities [Member]
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Recorded Liability	$354	$207
Chief Executive Officer [Member]
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Base Salary	1,000
Supplemental Employee Retirement Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities	$4,176	$4,194

Leases_Lease_Disclosure_Detail

Leases Lease Disclosure (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Number of Restaurants	6,515
Minimum [Member]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract	15 years
Maximum [Member]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract	20 years
Lessee Disclosure [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract	15 years
Lessee Disclosure [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract	20 years
Lessee Disclosure [Member] | Land and Building [Member]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Number of Units	444
Lessor Disclosure [Member] [Member]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Lessor Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract	20 years
Property Subject to Operating Lease [Member] | Lessee Disclosure [Member] | Land and Building [Member]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Number of Units	203
Property Subject to Operating Lease [Member] | Lessee Disclosure [Member] | Land
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Number of Units	310
Property Subject to Operating Lease [Member] | Lessor Disclosure [Member] [Member]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Number of Units	488
Property Subject to Operating Lease [Member] | Lessor Disclosure [Member] [Member] | Assets Leased to Others [Member]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Number of Units	230
Entity Operated Units [Member]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Number of Restaurants	957

Leases_Operating_Lease_Rent_Ex

Leases Operating Lease Rent Expense and Rent Income (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Dec. 30, 2012
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Rental expense, Minimum rentals	$76,218		$68,445		$70,525
Rental expense, Contingent rentals	19,967		10,421		10,971
Total rental expense	96,185	[1]	78,866	[1]	81,496	[1]
Sublease income	46,743		16,924		13,317
Rental income, Minimum rentals	51,019		16,245		10,757
Rental income, Contingent rentals	17,745		11,162		11,086
Total rental income	$68,764		$27,407		$21,843
[1]	Amounts exclude sublease income of $46,743, $16,924, and $13,317 recognized during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Leases_Future_Minimum_Rent_Det

Leases Future Minimum Rent (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Rental Payments, Capital Leases, 2015	$7,617
Rental Payments, Capital Leases, 2016	7,110
Rental Payments, Capital Leases, 2017	6,512
Rental Payments, Capital Leases, 2018	7,585
Rental Payments, Capital Leases, 2019	7,734
Rental Payments, Capital Leases, Thereafter	107,085
Rental Payments, Capital Leases, Total minimum payments	143,643
Less interest	-82,844
Present value of minimum capital lease payments	60,799	[1]
Rental Payments, Operating Leases, 2015	70,119
Rental Payments, Operating Leases, 2016	64,537
Rental Payments, Operating Leases, 2017	63,376
Rental Payments, Operating Leases, 2018	61,290
Rental Payments, Operating Leases, 2019	59,587
Rental Payments, Operating Leases, Thereafter	787,283
Rental Payments, Operating Leases, Total minimum payments	1,106,192
Rental Receipts, Capital Leases, 2015	7,658
Rental Receipts, Capital Leases, 2016	7,783
Rental Receipts, Capital Leases, 2017	8,032
Rental Receipts, Capital Leases, 2018	7,750
Rental Receipts, Capital Leases, 2019	7,723
Rental Receipts, Capital Leases, Thereafter	134,337
Rental Receipts, Capital Leases, Total minimum payments	173,283
Rental Receipts, Operating Leases, 2015	32,501
Rental Receipts, Operating Leases, 2016	32,285
Rental Receipts, Operating Leases, 2017	32,074
Rental Receipts, Operating Leases, 2018	31,187
Rental Receipts, Operating Leases, 2019	30,879
Rental Receipts, Operating Leases, Thereafter	434,426
Rental Receipts, Operating Leases, Total minimum payments	593,352
Rental Receipts, Owned Properties, 2015	20,105
Rental Receipts, Owned Properties, 2016	20,010
Rental Receipts, Owned Properties, 2017	19,923
Rental Receipts, Owned Properties, 2018	20,096
Rental Receipts, Owned Properties, 2019	21,096
Rental Receipts, Owned Properties, Thereafter	382,366
Rental Receipts, Owned Properties, Total minimum payments	483,596
Current portion of long-term debt [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Capital Lease Obligations, Current	821
Long-term Debt [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent	$59,978
[1]	The present value of minimum capital lease payments of $821 and $59,978 are included in “Current portion of long-term debt” and “Long-term debt,” respectively.

Leases_Properties_Leased_to_Th

Leases Properties Leased to Third Parties (Details) (Property Subject to Operating Lease [Member], USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Property Leased To Others	$931,229	$270,461
Property Leased To Others, Accumulated Depreciation	-162,731	-79,536
Property Leased To Others, Net	768,498	190,925
Land
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Property Leased To Others	371,174	69,500
Buildings and improvements
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Property Leased To Others	399,541	194,246
Office, restaurant, and transportation equipment
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Property Leased To Others	$160,514	$6,715

Leases_Net_Investment_in_Direc

Leases Net Investment in Direct Financing Lease (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]
Future minimum rental receipts	$109,674		$74,625
Unearned income	-74,102		-53,654
Net investment in direct financing leases	35,572		20,971
Other assets [Member]
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]
Net non-current investment in direct financing leases	35,379	[1]	20,745	[1]
Franchisees [Member] | Accounts and notes receivable [Member]
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]
Net current investment in direct financing leases	($193)	[2]	($226)	[2]
[1]	Included in “Other assets.”
[2]	Included in “Accounts and notes receivable.”

Guarantees_and_Other_Commitmen1

Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Image Activation Incentives (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
Franchisee Incentives [Line Items]
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	$17,060
Standby Letters of Credit [Member]
Franchisee Incentives [Line Items]
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	6,000
Minimum [Member]
Franchisee Incentives [Line Items]
Years of reduction in royalty payment attributable to incentive program	1 year
Maximum [Member]
Franchisee Incentives [Line Items]
Years of reduction in royalty payment attributable to incentive program	2 years
General and Administrative Expense [Member]
Franchisee Incentives [Line Items]
Franchisee Incentive Program, Cost	$4,369	$9,178

Guarantees_and_Other_Commitmen2

Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Loan Guarantees (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 30, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
New store development and equipment financing [Member]
Franchisee Loan Guarantees [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	$9,508
New store development and equipment financing [Member] | Other Liabilities [Member]
Franchisee Loan Guarantees [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value	784
Franchisees [Member]
Franchisee Loan Guarantees [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	1,676	2,000
Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value	184
Guarantee Obligations [Member] | System Optimization [Member] | Other Liabilities [Member]
Franchisee Loan Guarantees [Line Items]
Deferred Gain on Sale of Property	$1,995

Guarantees_and_Other_Commitmen3

Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Lease Guarantees (Details)	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Property Lease Guarantee [Member]	Indirect Guarantee of Indebtedness [Member]	Canadian Subsidiary [Member]	Canadian Subsidiary [Member]
	USD ($)	USD ($)	Property Lease Guarantee [Member]	Property Lease Guarantee [Member]
			USD ($)	CAD
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	$38,217	$3,211	$6
Lease guarantee, program maximum				5,000

Guarantees_and_Other_Commitmen4

Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Insurance (Details) (Insurance Claims [Member], USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Insurance Claims [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss per Occurrence, Maximum	$500

Guarantees_and_Other_Commitmen5

Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Letters of Credit (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	$17,060
Collateral Supporting Letters of Credit [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	$16,843

Guarantees_and_Other_Commitmen6

Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Beverage Agreements (Details) (Inventories [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months	$11,600
Purchase Obligation, Due in Second Year	6,400
Purchase Obligation, Due in Third Year	5,200
Purchase Obligation, Due in Fourth Year	5,200
Purchase Obligation, Due in Fifth Year	5,200
Purchase Obligation	45,600
Purchase Obligation, Purchases During Period	13,918	16,289
Accounts Payable [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Amount Due from (to) Vendor for Difference between Estimated Annual Usage and Contractual Terms	($2,543)

Guarantees_and_Other_Commitmen7

Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Capital Expenditures (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Capital expenditures included in accounts payable	$45,409	$41,713	$22,109

Transactions_with_Related_Part2

Transactions with Related Parties Related Party Transaction Summary (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

59 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

30 Months Ended

36 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 30, 2012

Dec. 28, 2014

Dec. 29, 2013

31-May-12

Jun. 30, 2012

Jan. 05, 2014

Mar. 30, 2014

Mar. 30, 2014

Feb. 02, 2012

Jan. 01, 2011

floors

sqft

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Distributions of proceeds to noncontrolling interests

$2,384

Jurl Holdings, LLC [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Investment Subsidiary, Ownership Percentage

99.70%

Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Distributions of proceeds to noncontrolling interests

3,667

[1]

0

[1]

0

[1]

QSCC [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Area of Real Estate Property

14,333

Annual Base Rental

176

Number of Renewal Options, Lease

1

QSCC [Member] | Patronage Dividends [Domain] | Cost of Sales [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party

2,464

[2]

1,516

[2]

3,291

[2]

QSCC [Member] | Lease Income [Domain] | General and Administrative Expense [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party

191

[3]

185

[3]

188

[3]

The Management Company [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Sublease, Number of Floors

2

The Management Company [Member] | Use of company-owned aircraft [Domain]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party

1,309

[4]

375

[4]

1,420

[4]

The Management Company [Member] | Sublease income [Domain] | General and Administrative Expense [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party

683

[5]

0

[5]

0

[5]

TASCO [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Lessor Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Renewal Term

1 year

Monthly Aircraft Lease Income, Revised

13

TASCO [Member] | General and Administrative Expense [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Aircraft Lease Income

92

Citation Air [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Lessor Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract

3 years

Former Executives [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Credit for Aircraft Fees Paid by Related Party

1,217

1,420

375

Former Management [Member] | Jurlique International Pty Ltd [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Distributions of proceeds to noncontrolling interests

2,296

TimWen [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

TimWen lease expense and management fees

6,605

[6]

6,064

[6]

6,587

[6]

TimWen [Member] | Cost of Sales [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

TimWen lease expense and management fees

6,880

6,313

6,854

TimWen [Member] | General and Administrative Expense [Member]

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party

$275

$249

$267

[1]

Jurl, a 99.7% owned subsidiary, completed the sale of our investment in Jurlique in February 2012. Prior to 2009, when our predecessor entity was a diversified company active in investments, we had provided our Former Executives, and certain other former employees, equity and profit interests in Jurl. In connection with the gain on sale of Jurlique, we distributed, based on the related agreement, approximately $3,667 in 2012 to Jurl’s minority shareholders, including approximately $2,296 to the Former Executives. See Note 6 for further discussion of the sale of Jurlique.

[2]

Wendy’s has a purchasing co-op relationship agreement (the “Wendy’s Co-op”) with its franchisees which establishes Quality Supply Chain Co-op, Inc. (“QSCC”). QSCC manages, for the Wendy’s system in the U.S. and Canada, contracts for the purchase and distribution of food, proprietary paper, operating supplies and equipment under national agreements with pricing based upon total system volume. QSCC’s supply chain management facilitates continuity of supply and provides consolidated purchasing efficiencies while monitoring and seeking to minimize possible obsolete inventory throughout the Wendy’s supply chain in the U.S. and Canada.Wendy’s and its franchisees pay sourcing fees to third-party vendors on certain products sourced by QSCC. Such sourcing fees are remitted by these vendors to QSCC and are the primary means of funding QSCC’s operations. Should QSCC’s sourcing fees exceed its expected needs, QSCC’s board of directors may return some or all of the excess to its members in the form of a patronage dividend. Wendy’s recorded its share of patronage dividends of $1,516, $3,291 and $2,464 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which are included as a reduction of “Cost of sales.”

[3]

Effective January 1, 2011, Wendy’s leased 14,333 square feet of office space to QSCC for an annual base rental of $176. There is currently one one-year renewal option remaining under this lease. The Wendy’s Company received $185, $188 and $191 of lease income from QSCC during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which has been recorded as a reduction of “General and administrative.”

[4]

In June 2009, The Wendy’s Company and TASCO, LLC (an affiliate of a management company formed by the Former Executives and a director, who was our former Vice Chairman (the “Management Company”)) (“TASCO”) entered into an aircraft lease agreement (the “Aircraft Lease Agreement”) to lease a company-owned aircraft. On June 29, 2011, The Wendy’s Company and TASCO entered into an agreement to extend the Aircraft Lease Agreement for an additional one year period (expiring on June 30, 2012) and an increased monthly rent of $13. On June 30, 2012, The Wendy’s Company and TASCO entered into an extension of that lease agreement that extended the lease term to July 31, 2012 and effective as of August 1, 2012, entered into an amended and restated aircraft lease agreement (the “2012 Lease”) that expired on January 5, 2014. Under the 2012 Lease, all expenses related to the ownership, maintenance and operation of the aircraft were paid by TASCO, subject to certain limitations and termination rights. The 2012 Lease expired without any limitation or termination provisions being invoked. The Wendy’s Company did not extend or renew the 2012 Lease. Under the previous Aircraft Lease Agreement, the Company recorded lease income of $92 during 2012 as a reduction of “General and administrative.”The Wendy’s Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, was party to a three-year aircraft management and lease agreement, which expired in March 2014, with CitationAir, a subsidiary of Cessna Aircraft Company, pursuant to which the Company leased a corporate aircraft to CitationAir to use as part of its Jet Card program fleet. The Company entered into the lease agreement as a means of offsetting the cost of owning and operating the corporate aircraft by receiving revenue from third parties’ use of such aircraft. Under the terms of the lease agreement, the Company paid annual management and flight crew fees to CitationAir and reimbursed CitationAir for maintenance costs and fuel usage related to the corporate aircraft. In return, CitationAir paid a negotiated fee to the Company based on the number of hours that the corporate aircraft was used by Jet Card members. This fee was reduced based on the number of hours that (1) the Company used other aircraft in the Jet Card program fleet and (2) Jet Card members who are affiliated with the Company used the corporate aircraft or other aircraft in the Jet Card program fleet. The Company’s participation in the aircraft management and lease agreement reduced the aggregate costs that the Company would otherwise have incurred in connection with owning and operating the corporate aircraft. Under the terms of the lease agreement, the Company’s directors had the opportunity to become Jet Card members and to use aircraft in the Jet Card program fleet at the same negotiated fee paid by the Company as provided for under the lease agreement. During the first quarter of 2014 and the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, the Former Executives and a director, who was our former Vice Chairman, and members of their immediate families, used their Jet Card agreements for business and personal travel on aircraft in the Jet Card program fleet. The Management Company paid CitationAir directly, and the Company received credit from CitationAir for charges related to such travel of approximately $375, $1,420 and $1,217 during the first quarter of 2014 and the years ended December 29, 2013 and December 30, 2012, respectively.

[5]

In July 2008 and July 2007, The Wendy’s Company entered into agreements under which the Management Company subleased (the “Subleases”) office space on two of the floors of the Company’s former New York headquarters. During the second quarter of 2010, The Wendy’s Company and the Management Company entered into an amendment to the sublease, effective April 1, 2010, pursuant to which the Management Company’s early termination right was canceled in exchange for a reduction in rent. Under the terms of the amended sublease, which expired in May 2012, the Management Company paid rent to the Company in an amount that covered substantially all of the Company’s rent obligations under the prime lease for the subleased space. The Company recognized income of $683 from the Management Company under such subleases in 2012, which has been recorded as a reduction of “General and administrative.”

[6]

A wholly-owned subsidiary of Wendy’s leases restaurant facilities from TimWen for the operation of Wendy’s/Tim Hortons combo units in Canada. Wendy’s paid TimWen $6,313, $6,854 and $6,880 under such leases during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which have been included in “Costs of sales.” Wendy’s subleases some of the restaurant facilities to franchisees and they pay TimWen directly. In addition, TimWen paid Wendy’s a management fee under the TimWen joint venture agreement, of $249, $267 and $275 during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which has been included as a reduction to “General and administrative.”

Transactions_with_Related_Part3

Transactions with Related Parties Other Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 24, 2014	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Mar. 30, 2014
	stores		investment
Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Proceeds from Divestiture of Business, Percentage of Buyer Stock Received		18.50%
Arizona Restaurant Company [Domain]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Significant Changes, Franchises Sold	40
Related party ownership percentage of franchisee	10.00%
Related Party Transaction, Purchase Price of Assets Sold to Related Party	$21,000
Number of restaurants to be developed	5
Number of Restaurants to be Remodeled	7
Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party		4,677
Due to Related Parties, Current		27
280 BT [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transactions, Number of Remaining Co-Investments			1
Related Party Transaction, Distribution from Related Party Investment			0	0
280 BT Wendy's [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Investment Subsidiary, Ownership Percentage					80.10%
Related Party Transaction, Distribution from Related Party Investment					22
280 BT - Former Management [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Investment Subsidiary, Ownership Percentage					11.20%
Related Party Transaction, Distribution from Related Party Investment					5
280 BT, Investors [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Investment Subsidiary, Ownership Percentage					8.70%
Accounts And Notes Receivable [Member] | Arizona Restaurant Company [Domain]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current		$384

Legal_and_Environmental_Matter1

Legal and Environmental Matters (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Loss Contingency [Abstract]
Accruals for legal and environmental matters	$3,339

Advertising_Costs_and_Funds_De

Advertising Costs and Funds (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
	funds
Restricted Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Number of Advertising Funds	2
Advertising funds restricted assets	$65,308	$67,183
Advertising funds restricted liabilities	65,308	67,183
Advertising Expense	73,454	94,498	103,147
Advertising Fund [Member]
Restricted Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	15,085	22,711
Accounts and notes receivable	42,717	37,960
Other assets	7,506	6,512
Advertising funds restricted assets	65,308	67,183
Accounts payable	3,736	2,544
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	70,206	70,382
Member's deficit	-8,634	-5,743
Advertising funds restricted liabilities	$65,308	$67,183

Geographic_Information_Details

Geographic Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014	Jun. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues	$501,951	$512,489	$523,427	$523,196	$592,405	$640,779	$650,544	$603,682	$2,061,063	$2,487,410	$2,505,242
Properties	1,271,238				1,165,487				1,271,238	1,165,487	1,250,338
U.S.
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues									1,796,725	2,213,875	2,231,270
Properties	1,232,613				1,108,219				1,232,613	1,108,219	1,186,879
Canada
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues									247,792	255,216	257,750
Properties	38,538				57,232				38,538	57,232	63,412
Other International
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues									16,546	18,319	16,222
Properties	$87				$36				$87	$36	$47

Quarterly_Financial_Informatio2

Quarterly Financial Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Sep. 28, 2014		Jun. 29, 2014		Mar. 30, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Sep. 29, 2013		Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Revenues	$501,951		$512,489		$523,427		$523,196		$592,405		$640,779		$650,544		$603,682		$2,061,063	$2,487,410	$2,505,242
Cost of sales	335,019		343,807		347,780		374,190		436,437		469,177		473,298		460,828		1,400,796	1,839,740	1,881,248
Operating profit	51,717	[1]	46,923	[1]	63,854		89,014	[1]	28,878	[2]	26,810	[2]	56,990	[2]	22,464	[2]	251,508	135,142	122,747
Income (loss) from continuing operations									32,925	[2]	-2,162	[2]	12,002	[2]	2,133	[2]	121,434	44,898	7,958
Net (loss) income from discontinued operations									-266		0		0		0		0	-266	1,509
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests									410		223		222		0		0	855	-2,384
Net income (loss) attributable to The Wendy's Company	23,294	[1]	22,830	[1]	29,007		46,303	[1]	33,069	[2]	-1,939	[2]	12,224	[2]	2,133	[2]	121,434	45,487	7,083
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract]
Basic and diluted net income per share	$0.06	[1],[3]	$0.06	[1],[3]	$0.08	[3]	$0.12	[1],[3]
Basic income (loss) per share attributable to The Wendy’s Company:
Continuing operations									$0.09	[2]	$0	[2]	$0.03	[2]	$0.01	[2]	$0.33	$0.12	$0.02
Discontinued operations									$0		$0		$0		$0		$0	$0	$0
Net income (loss)									$0.08	[2]	$0	[2]	$0.03	[2]	$0.01	[2]	$0.33	$0.12	$0.02
Diluted income (loss) per share attributable to The Wendy’s Company:
Continuing operations									$0.08	[2]	$0	[2]	$0.03	[2]	$0.01	[2]	$0.32	$0.11	$0.02
Discontinued operations									$0		$0		$0		$0		$0	$0	$0
Net income (loss)									$0.08	[2]	$0	[2]	$0.03	[2]	$0.01	[2]	$0.32	$0.11	$0.02
Facilities action (income) charges, net	6,530		7,520				-44,033		-20,834		22,275		6,377		3,038		-29,100	10,856	41,031
Impairment of long-lived assets	7,245		3,408						10,552		5,327						10,985	15,879	21,097
Impairment of goodwill									9,397								0	9,397	0
Loss on early extinguishment of debt									$7,544				$21,019				$0	$28,563	$75,076
[1]	The Company’s consolidated statements of operations were materially impacted by facilities action (income) charges, net and impairment of long-lived assets. The pre-tax impact of facilities action (income) charges, net for the first, third and fourth quarters of 2014 was $(44,033), $7,520 and $6,530, respectively (see Note 2 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of impairment of long-lived assets during the third and fourth quarters of 2014 was $3,408 and $7,245, respectively (see Note 15 for additional information).
[2]	The Company’s consolidated statements of operations were materially impacted by facilities action (income) charges, net, impairment of long-lived assets, impairment of goodwill and losses on early extinguishment of debt. The pre-tax impact of facilities action charges (income), net for the first, second, third and fourth quarters of 2013 was $3,038, $6,377, $22,275 and $(20,834), respectively (see Note 2 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of impairment of long-lived assets during the third and fourth quarters of 2013 was $5,327 and $10,552, respectively, (see Note 15 for additional information) and the pre-tax impact of impairment of goodwill during the fourth quarter of 2013 was $9,397 (see Note 8 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of losses on the early extinguishment of debt during the second and fourth quarters of 2013 was $21,019 and $7,544, respectively (see Note 10 for additional information).
[3]	Basic and diluted net income per share are being presented together since diluted net income per share was the same as basic net income per share for all periods presented (see Note 4 for additional information).

Parent_Financial_Statements_Ba

Parent Financial Statements Balance Sheet (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Jan. 01, 2012
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$267,276	$580,152	$453,361	$475,231
Total current assets	562,102	922,411
Total assets	4,145,842	4,363,040
Current liabilities:
Total current liabilities	340,224	349,526
Deferred income taxes	493,843	482,499
Other liabilities	199,833	176,244
Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Common stock, $0.10 par value; 1,500,000 shares authorized; 470,424 shares issued	47,042	47,042
Additional paid-in capital	2,826,965	2,794,445
Accumulated deficit	-445,917	-492,215
Common stock held in treasury, at cost	-679,220	-409,449
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-31,294	-10,337	5,981	102
Total stockholders’ equity	1,717,576	1,929,486	1,985,855	1,996,069
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	4,145,842	4,363,040
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$0.10	$0.10
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	1,500,000	1,500,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	470,424	470,424	470,424	470,424
Parent Company [Member]
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	35,556	179,916	102,652	128,441
Amount due from subsidiaries	212,802	185,695
Deferred income tax benefit and other current assets	51,990	99,039
Total current assets	300,348	464,650
Investments in consolidated subsidiaries	1,572,571	1,687,364
Deferred income tax benefit	10,879	0
Total assets	1,883,798	2,152,014
Current liabilities:
Amounts due to subsidiaries	161,466	157,372
Deferred income taxes and other current liabilities	1,555	1,540
Total current liabilities	163,021	158,912
Deferred income taxes	0	53,920
Other liabilities	3,201	9,696
Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Common stock, $0.10 par value; 1,500,000 shares authorized; 470,424 shares issued	47,042	47,042
Additional paid-in capital	2,826,965	2,794,445
Accumulated deficit	-445,917	-492,215
Common stock held in treasury, at cost	-679,220	-409,449
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-31,294	-10,337
Total stockholders’ equity	1,717,576	1,929,486
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$1,883,798	$2,152,014
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$0.10	$0.10
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	1,500,000	1,500,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	470,424	470,424

Parent_Financial_Statements_In

Parent Financial Statements Income Statement (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended															12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Sep. 28, 2014		Jun. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Sep. 29, 2013		Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Parent Financial Statements
General and administrative																$263,257	$293,792	$287,808
Depreciation and amortization																159,860	200,219	154,174
Facilities action (income) charges, net	6,530		7,520			-44,033		-20,834		22,275		6,377		3,038		-29,100	10,856	41,031
Impairment of long-lived assets	7,245		3,408					10,552		5,327						10,985	15,879	21,097
Other expense (income), net																4,264	245	4,335
Costs and Expenses																1,809,555	2,352,268	2,382,495
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interests																201,269	59,052	-13,125
Income tax (provision) benefit																-79,835	-14,154	21,083
Income from continuing operations																121,434	45,753	5,574
Equity in (loss) income from discontinued operations								-266		0		0		0		0	-266	1,509
Net income (loss)	23,294	[1]	22,830	[1]	29,007	46,303	[1]	33,069	[2]	-1,939	[2]	12,224	[2]	2,133	[2]	121,434	45,487	7,083
Parent Company [Member]
Parent Financial Statements
Equity in income from continuing operations of subsidiaries																113,010	21,116	29,708
General and administrative																10,567	10,381	10,911
Depreciation and amortization																0	1,272	1,975
Facilities action (income) charges, net																0	330	5,327
Impairment of long-lived assets																0	1,830	1,628
Other expense (income), net																306	-23	953
Costs and Expenses																10,873	13,790	20,794
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interests																102,137	7,326	8,914
Income tax (provision) benefit																19,297	38,427	-3,340
Income from continuing operations																121,434	45,753	5,574
Equity in (loss) income from discontinued operations																0	-266	1,509
Net income (loss)																$121,434	$45,487	$7,083
[1]	The Company’s consolidated statements of operations were materially impacted by facilities action (income) charges, net and impairment of long-lived assets. The pre-tax impact of facilities action (income) charges, net for the first, third and fourth quarters of 2014 was $(44,033), $7,520 and $6,530, respectively (see Note 2 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of impairment of long-lived assets during the third and fourth quarters of 2014 was $3,408 and $7,245, respectively (see Note 15 for additional information).
[2]	The Company’s consolidated statements of operations were materially impacted by facilities action (income) charges, net, impairment of long-lived assets, impairment of goodwill and losses on early extinguishment of debt. The pre-tax impact of facilities action charges (income), net for the first, second, third and fourth quarters of 2013 was $3,038, $6,377, $22,275 and $(20,834), respectively (see Note 2 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of impairment of long-lived assets during the third and fourth quarters of 2013 was $5,327 and $10,552, respectively, (see Note 15 for additional information) and the pre-tax impact of impairment of goodwill during the fourth quarter of 2013 was $9,397 (see Note 8 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of losses on the early extinguishment of debt during the second and fourth quarters of 2013 was $21,019 and $7,544, respectively (see Note 10 for additional information).

Parent_Financial_Statements_Co

Parent Financial Statements Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended															12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014		Sep. 28, 2014		Jun. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013		Sep. 29, 2013		Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Parent Financial Statements
Net income (loss)	$23,294	[1]	$22,830	[1]	$29,007	$46,303	[1]	$33,069	[2]	($1,939)	[2]	$12,224	[2]	$2,133	[2]	$121,434	$45,487	$7,083
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net:
Foreign currency translation adjustment																-18,560	-16,271	6,096
Change in unrecognized pension loss, net of income tax (provision) benefit of $(160), $37 and $127, respectively																391	-62	-217
Change in unrealized (loss) gain on cash flow hedges, net of income tax benefit (provision) of $1,767 and $(468), respectively																-2,788	744	0
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net																-20,957	-15,589	5,879
Comprehensive income attributable to The Wendy’s Company																100,477	29,169	12,962
Change in unrecognized pension loss, income tax (provision) benefit																-160	37	127
Change in unrealized (loss) gain on cash flow hedges, net of income tax benefit (provision)																1,767	-468	0
Parent Company [Member]
Parent Financial Statements
Net income (loss)																121,434	45,487	7,083
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net:
Foreign currency translation adjustment																-18,560	-17,000	6,096
Change in unrecognized pension loss, net of income tax (provision) benefit of $(160), $37 and $127, respectively																391	-62	-217
Change in unrealized (loss) gain on cash flow hedges, net of income tax benefit (provision) of $1,767 and $(468), respectively																-2,788	744	0
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net																-20,957	-16,318	5,879
Comprehensive income attributable to The Wendy’s Company																100,477	29,169	12,962
Change in unrecognized pension loss, income tax (provision) benefit																-160	37	127
Change in unrealized (loss) gain on cash flow hedges, net of income tax benefit (provision)																$1,767	($468)	$0
[1]	The Company’s consolidated statements of operations were materially impacted by facilities action (income) charges, net and impairment of long-lived assets. The pre-tax impact of facilities action (income) charges, net for the first, third and fourth quarters of 2014 was $(44,033), $7,520 and $6,530, respectively (see Note 2 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of impairment of long-lived assets during the third and fourth quarters of 2014 was $3,408 and $7,245, respectively (see Note 15 for additional information).
[2]	The Company’s consolidated statements of operations were materially impacted by facilities action (income) charges, net, impairment of long-lived assets, impairment of goodwill and losses on early extinguishment of debt. The pre-tax impact of facilities action charges (income), net for the first, second, third and fourth quarters of 2013 was $3,038, $6,377, $22,275 and $(20,834), respectively (see Note 2 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of impairment of long-lived assets during the third and fourth quarters of 2013 was $5,327 and $10,552, respectively, (see Note 15 for additional information) and the pre-tax impact of impairment of goodwill during the fourth quarter of 2013 was $9,397 (see Note 8 for additional information). The pre-tax impact of losses on the early extinguishment of debt during the second and fourth quarters of 2013 was $21,019 and $7,544, respectively (see Note 10 for additional information).

Parent_Financial_Statements_Ca

Parent Financial Statements Cash Flow (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$121,434	$44,632	$9,467
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Share-based compensation	28,243	19,613	11,473
Impairment of long-lived assets	10,985	15,879	21,097
Deferred income tax	69,540	12,853	-31,598
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	-9,363	0	0
Amortization of deferred financing costs	2,438	2,487	4,241
Dividends from subsidiaries	210,000	170,000	0
Other, net	-11,686	-8,908	3,093
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Net cash provided by operating activities	254,776	329,847	190,415
Cash flows from investing activities:
Other, net	434	-43	-159
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-187,812	-76,690	-189,385
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayments of long-term debt	-38,380	-590,293	-1,044,310
Repurchases of common stock	-301,216	-69,320	0
Dividends	-75,117	-70,681	-39,043
Proceeds from stock option exercises	30,788	42,370	7,806
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	9,363	0	0
Other, net	0	438	52
Net cash used in financing activities	-374,562	-122,901	-24,129
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	-312,876	126,791	-21,870
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	580,152	453,361	475,231
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	267,276	580,152	453,361
Parent Company [Member]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	121,434	45,487	7,083
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Equity in income from operations of subsidiaries	-113,010	-20,850	-31,217
Depreciation and amortization	0	1,272	3,078
Share-based compensation	737	1,552	944
Impairment of long-lived assets	0	1,830	1,628
Deferred income tax	7,213	80,161	-4,118
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	-9,363	0	0
Amortization of deferred financing costs	0	0	21
Dividends from subsidiaries	210,000	170,000	0
Tax sharing receivable from subsidiaries, net	-16,764	-119,249	0
Tax sharing payments received from subsidiaries	0	0	37
Other operating transactions with Wendy's Restaurants, LLC	-13,002	4,988	28,733
Other, net	-5,525	1,439	1,753
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Other current assets	2,300	10,305	-472
Other current liabilities	4,654	-2,040	8,643
Net cash provided by operating activities	188,674	174,895	16,113
Cash flows from investing activities:
Other, net	3,148	0	686
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	3,148	0	686
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayments of long-term debt	0	0	-11,303
Repurchases of common stock	-301,216	-69,320	0
Dividends	-75,117	-70,681	-39,043
Proceeds from stock option exercises	30,788	42,370	7,806
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	9,363	0	0
Other, net	0	0	-48
Net cash used in financing activities	-336,182	-97,631	-42,588
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	-144,360	77,264	-25,789
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	179,916	102,652	128,441
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$35,556	$179,916	$102,652