Investor Relations

Wendy's recently released their 2006 annual report. of course, like most companies it is slick and glossy to impress the shareholders. this year however, there is a different attitude toward the report. a new CEO and head of the BoD has been appointed. this company is now looking toward a new future for the first time without Dave Thomas. the annual report opens with a letter from the new Chief Executive of the BoD, James Pickett. he seems to be telling both his story and background to ensure the shareholders faith in the company, as well as telling the story for a future Wendy's.
Some of the messages that stand out from this letter as well as the following letter from the new president talk about a positive future for the company. the BoD faced the challenge of life after Dave, the next generation (as they called it) and wanted to keep the new leadership from within the company. people that have been with the wendy's organization for a while, and worked closely with Dave. "during the second half of 2006, we created significant value for our shareholders, and the development of a new strategic plan. the new chairman left a very positive outlook, for an excitful future. he was very thorough and informative, as well as credible and believable.
the new President and CEO is Kerri Anderson. she was appointed to this position in November of '06. she has touched upon a few strategies for revitalizing a new Wendy's brand, as the total revenue for 2006 was $2.4 billion. Wendy's is going to re-establish their brand essence "Quality Made Fresh", as well as try to streamline and improve operations. this meaning getting better food to the customer faster. they are expecting to introduce more than 10 new products in '07 including sandwhiches, salads, and beverages. Wendy's is going to expand into the breakfast market and offer a breakfast menu (probably similar to McDonalds). this all sounds very exciting. Wendy's has also hired 2 new advertising agencies, Saatchi & Saatchi, and Kirshenbaum bond + partners. they are planning to target the 18-34 age demographic. 2007 should be a GREAT year for the Wendy's family.