Wendy’s opened its first restaurant in Columbus, Ohio, in 1969.
Founder Dave Thomas named the chain after his daughter Melinda Lou “Wendy” Thomas. The first location introduced the brand’s square hamburgers and made-to-order approach.
Wendy’s expanded from its Ohio base during the 1970s, becoming one of the largest hamburger chains in the United States. The company’s headquarters remain in Dublin, Ohio.
A common mix-up is the founding date: Wendy’s began restaurant operations in 1969, while later milestones include its first international location and the growth of its drive-through business.