The American fast-food chain Wendy’s has partnered with Corrib Oil, a service station and energy distributor, to bring the Wendy’s franchise to Ireland. Headquartered in Ohio, Wendy’s plans to open 10 quick-service restaurants across Ireland by 2027, creating approximately 300 new jobs.
The locations, set to be announced early next year, will include both standalone Wendy’s restaurants and outlets within Corrib Oil service stations. For site selection, Wendy’s has enlisted the assistance of commercial real estate firm Cushman and Wakefield.
Corrib Oil, founded in Claremorris in 1987, operates in two main sectors: retail and distribution. Its retail arm, Corrib Retail, runs 38 convenience stores across 17 counties, all of which operate under the Spar brand through a 25-year partnership with BWG Foods. Corrib Oil’s forecourts are branded Circle K or Texaco, and the stores host various in-store partners like Insomnia, Apache Pizza, and Subway.
Currently employing 1,150 people from its headquarters in Parkmore, Galway, Corrib Oil will add 300 jobs in the initial phase of the Wendy’s partnership, expanding its workforce to 1,450.
Eugene Dalton, CEO of Corrib Oil, noted that teaming up with Wendy’s marks a significant step forward in Corrib’s growth strategy. “Our collaboration with Wendy’s leadership has been highly positive,” he said, “and their heritage aligns well with our own values.”
Wendy’s, founded in 1969 and based in Dublin, Ohio, operates more than 7,200 locations worldwide, with 1,200 outside the U.S. In addition to Ireland, the chain is eyeing expansion into Northern Ireland, Romania, Spain, Portugal, and France. Wendy’s has committed to sourcing ingredients locally in Ireland wherever possible, ensuring that all fresh beef will be 100% Irish-sourced and certified.
The move into Ireland follows Wendy’s 2021 expansion into the UK, where it aims to open 50 locations by year-end, with a long-term goal of 400 outlets.
Wendy’s international president, EJ Wunsch, expressed confidence in the partnership with Corrib Oil. “Ireland is an ideal market for Wendy’s long-term growth,” he said. “Corrib Oil’s deep understanding of local communities and commitment to customer service aligns perfectly with our vision. With their strong operational history and growth track record, we are confident Corrib Oil will lead Wendy’s successful expansion in Ireland.”
In recent years, other American fast-food chains have entered the Irish market, including Five Guys in 2016 and Krispy Kreme in 2018, joining local favorites like Supermac’s.
