Greater Manchester is set to welcome its first Wendy's American burger drive-thru restaurant, located at the former TGI Fridays site in Cross Street, Sale, Trafford. The American burger chain received planning permission for the new outlet, which will occupy part of the existing building and include a drive-thru lane on the car park.
Former TGI Fridays Site Revitalised
The building spent many years as a TGI Fridays before closing last year alongside other branches. Wendy's plans to make external alterations to add its branding, describing the current site as 'dated' and 'tired'. The company stated this will 'significantly enhance' the location.
Wendy's menu includes breakfast sandwiches, burgers, wraps, chicken pieces, fries, and jacket potatoes. The chain currently operates 48 restaurants in the UK and has announced plans to open 400 across the country.
Nearest Existing Locations
The closest Wendy's restaurants to Manchester are in St Helens, the Wirral, and Blackpool, the latter opening last year at the former Viva Vegas Diner near Blackpool Tower.
Future of the Trafford Site
Some mystery remains as Wendy's will only occupy part of the Cross Street building, leaving the remaining space available for a future tenant. The drive-thru will be built on part of the existing car park, reducing parking spaces by 24. Wendy's insists the remaining 38 spaces will be 'sufficient' for staff and customer needs.
New Design Under Future Fresh Project
Wendy's is rolling out a new design across its restaurants as part of the Future Fresh project. The new look pays homage to the brand's roots, featuring a blue and white colour palette reminiscent of the first Wendy's.
A spokesperson for Wendy's said: "We can confirm that Wendy's is coming to Sale, and we look forward to serving our fresh, craveable food to even more fans across the UK."
