Wendy’s Tests Drive-Thru-Only Stores

By George Anderson


Wendy’s knows many American consumers think of themselves as being too busy to get out of their cars to order inside one of its restaurants. One need only look at the long lines
in the drive-thru lane at the typical fast food restaurant, while inside only a few customers do their ordering the old-fashioned way.


That’s why the number three hamburger chain is testing drive-thru and walk-up window only stores. The chain plans to have 13 in operation before the end of the year.


Tom Mueller, Wendy’s North American chief operating officer, told Reuters, “We spread them out in different markets and different types of demographic areas. The response
has been very positive.”


Mr. Mueller says Wendy’s generates up to 70 percent of its sales with drive-thru transactions.


Moderator’s Comment: What are your thoughts on Wendy’s test of drive-thru and/or walk-up window only restaurants?


Personally speaking, we’d miss the restaurants if they went away. We’ve always found the 10 minutes spent going inside to get our Wendy’s order more worthwhile
than waiting 15 minutes in the drive-thru lane.

George Anderson – Moderator

BrainTrust

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