Ark Valley News - Wendy’s, QT undergo massive renovations

Wendy’s, QT undergo massive renovations
By David Dinell
Last Updated: May 14, 2015

Wendy's in Park City will be closed for the next six weeks as it receives a makeover — and it won't just be a some fresh paint and new chairs, but a dramatic change.

The project got underway this week on May 11 and should be done by the end of June, according to a representative of Zernco Inc., the Wichita company undertaking the job for LDF Cos., which owns the unit at 930 Connolly Court near the intersection of 61st North and I-135.

Nearby QuikTrip also started a massive project to build a new store at its current location. The store continues to operate during construction. The new store is scheduled to open in the fall.

When completed, Wendy's will have a whole new look, including an electronic fireplace and a variety of seating styles, including lounge-style furniture. The interior will sport the company's noted red color scheme, accented with a metallic trim. There also will be new flooring and doors installed.

Outside, there will be new landscaping and a new bright red facade that will include an 18-foot tower sporting the company sign along with the familiar red-haired girl logo.

"It will really stand out," the representative said of the sign. "It will grab your attention."

There also will be behind-the-scenes changes that customers won't see but will be key to new business operations, officials say. Price of the project was not disclosed. However, a Wendy's remodeling usually costs between $450,000 and $650,00, according to Restaurant Finance Monitor, an industry publication.

While it's costly, the remodels can increase sales from 10 percent up to 20 percent, bringing in up to $320,000 in sales during a calendar year, according to the Monitor, allowing the project to pay off in two years. Average yearly sales at a Wendy's outlet is about $1.6 million. The new models are being designed under the company's "Image Activation" plan, which aims to update the chain's image.

Company officials say the new appearance is receiving positive reviews and thus it is pressing forward with it. The national chain's goal is to remodel about 35 percent of the franchise units by 2017 and about 85 percent of its own stores by time.

The chain started the campaign a few years ago it and it is being implemented nationwide. It's part of a trend of fast-foot outlets to compete with the highly successful Chipotle Mexican Grill by using fresher, higher quality ingredients and a modern minimalistic look.

Year to date, Wendy's is seeing the changes pay off as sales have increased 0.7 percent compared to a 1.7 percent decline for the far bigger McDonald's.