Wendy’s Celebrates 50 Fresh Years in Canada

This year marks a significant milestone for Wendy’s Canada as we proudly celebrate 50 years of serving Canadian customers. Since opening our first Canadian restaurant in Hamilton, Ontario in 1975, Wendy’s has grown to nearly 450 locations across the country, each one franchise-owned and locally operated. 

This anniversary is more than just a celebration - it’s a reflection on five decades of growth, innovation, never cutting corners, and a commitment to the communities we serve. Our journey began with a simple mission: to deliver fresh, quality food to Canadians. Today, nearly 70% of our ingredients are sourced locally, including 100% Canadian beef and chicken, greenhouse-grown lettuce and tomatoes. In addition, we serve more than 45 million pounds of Canadian potatoes annually, ensuring our Seasoned Breakfast Potatoes and Hot & Crispy Fries remain a favourite from coast to coast. Times may have changed, but our mission remains the same.

So, how does Wendy’s celebrate a milestone like this?

With a little Canadian flair and a lot of chill. And when we say chill, we’re talking about our iconic Jr. Frosty®, and it can be all yours for just 50 cents until May 24, 2025*. Vanilla or chocolate, you decide – or maybe just get both. Can you think of a better way to celebrate five decades AND also kick off the unofficial start of summer?

But let’s be real – we’re not just here to serve you fresh-made, delicious food. We want to make a difference in the communities we serve, and that starts with restaurant owners and operators, suppliers, restaurant teams, and even you. It includes creating new career opportunities, bringing more Wendy’s to more people across Canada, and continuing our commitment to giving back.

When and where did the first Wendy’s restaurant open its doors in Canada? 

Wendy’s brought the fresh beef to Canada when it opened the first international Wendy’s restaurant in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada in September of 1975.

Is there really a “Wendy”?

Yes! Wendy is Dave and Lorraine Thomas’ middle daughter.  Her given name is Melinda, which became “Wendy” when her siblings couldn’t pronounce her given name. She was eight years old when she modeled for the restaurant sign. Today, she’s a mom and a successful businesswoman who, with her siblings, own and operate a Wendy’s franchise.

Why are Wendy’s hamburgers square?

Dave Thomas used to say, “At Wendy’s, we never cut corners.”  That’s true … but you can lay more square patties on a grill than round ones and when the corners of the patty hang over the edge of the bun, you can see how big the patty is. We’re not only proud of the size of the patties – we're proud of their freshness too. Going from field to restaurant in less than 10 days, we’re proud to be serving Canadians our iconic, fresh, never frozen beef from Canadian farmers.

After 50 years, what comes next? 

Wendy’s has committed to keeping it fresh on all fronts, which includes the quality of our food, a first-class hospitality experience in our restaurants, our commitment to expanding our footprint across Canada, and our corporate responsibility progress. More restaurants? You bet. Bigger community impact? Absolutely. Even more commitment to fresh, local Canadian ingredients? You know it. Wendy’s Canada is just getting started, and we’re hungry for more. So thank you, Canada, for 50 incredible years, and here’s to 50 more. Ready for your next fresh fix? Stay connected with us on X, Instagram, and Facebook.

* Limited time only at participating Canada Wendy’s.  A la carte only.   Not valid for delivery orders or with any other discount or offer.  While supplies last.