As of March 2026, these three major chains are significantly reducing their presence in Iowa:
1. Wendy’s: “Project Fresh” Reaches Iowa
Following a disappointing fourth quarter in 2025, Wendy’s has moved aggressively with its “Project Fresh” initiative. The company announced in February 2026 that it will shutter between 298 and 358 restaurants nationwide during the first half of this year.
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- The Target: The closures are focused on “consistently underperforming” locations—typically older storefronts that have not been updated to the brand’s new digital-first “Global Next Gen” design.
- Iowa Impact: While Wendy’s maintains a strong presence in the state, several legacy units in older retail districts are on the chopping…