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Wendy’s has today announced the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the company’s history, with the
acquisition of the business by Wendy’s senior management and Navis Capital Partners, one of Asia’s leading
private equity investors.
Original co-founder of Wendy’s, Geoff Davis, will retain his link with the business as a consultant, while wellknown
figure in the food and beverage industry, Nicola Milne, will take over the role of CEO.
According to Ms Milne, whose world-class experience in the industry includes roles at McDonald’s and Bakers
Delight:
 “The acquisition will provide the capital and strategic capabilities required for the business to
commence an exciting phase of innovation and growth.”
“Wendy’s is currently regarded as the leading retail franchise opportunity in the Australian ice cream and treat
market and this will further strengthen the opportunities for both our current and future franchisees. With a
history of over 27 years in the industry, high quality products and strong franchisee support, the Wendy’s
brand remains an established and well-respected part of the Australian culture and this acquisition will benefit
all stakeholders.
“In addition, this acquisition has provided us with the opportunity for the people who run the business to
become owners in the business. Given the commitment of our senior management team to this acquisition and
the extensive experience Navis has in the food and beverage sector, this is an exciting time for Wendy’s and
our network of franchisees,” Ms Milne said.
Wendy’s is a vertically integrated retail business, with its own ice cream and treat manufacturing facility
included in the deal.
Navis has a wealth of experience as an investor in the food and beverage industry through its existing
ownership of companies such as Dunkin Donuts (Thailand), KFC (Hong Kong & Macau) and Dome Coffee
(Worldwide).
“Navis will invest significantly in strengthening and expanding the Wendy’s franchise network with a focus on
continued product and business innovation, along with accelerated geographic expansion,” Navis Director,
Rodney Muse said.
About Wendy’s:
The Wendy’s franchise network of ice cream retail stores was founded in Adelaide almost 30 years ago. With
approximately 300 stores now open across Australia and New Zealand, Wendy’s treats over 750,000
consumers each week and turns over more than $120 million per year.
About Navis Capital Partners:
Navis was founded in 1998 in order to make private equity investments in buyouts, recapitalisations and
restructurings in Asia, and currently manages approximately US$500 million.
The firm contributes both capital and management expertise with the objective of directing strategic,
operational and financial improvements inside its portfolio companies.
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