Wendy's shares surge after Peltz proposes $7.35 buyout

Wendy's stock climbed 15% in early Wednesday trading after Nelson Peltz proposed to buy the restaurant chain for $7.35 per share in cash.

The company, founded by Dave Thomas in 1969, has seen its stock value drop 25% over the past twelve months. Sales at established locations have fallen for more than two years, including during the first half of 2026. Peltz, who previously invested in Procter & Gamble, Disney, and DuPont, currently holds a 16.3% stake in Wendy's according to a regulatory filing submitted Wednesday.

Trian Fund Management and its partners are paying nearly 19% above the stock's Tuesday closing price. In a letter to the board, Peltz stated that taking the company private would provide the best result for stakeholders. He noted that external pressures, including consumer spending trends and commodity costs, have made the operating environment challenging.

Wendy's, headquartered in Dublin, Ohio, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The company is scheduled to release its quarterly financial results next week. Analysts currently project earnings of 9 cents per share on revenue of $531 million.

The stock price reached $7.05 on Wednesday, marking a 91-cent gain from the previous close. The proposed acquisition price of $7.35 represents a direct cash offer for all outstanding shares.