Oklahoma faces multiple Wendy’s closures as major franchisee files bankruptcy

Oklahoma could lose several Wendy’s restaurants as one of the fast-food chain’s largest franchise operators works through bankruptcy. The latest closure plans include multiple locations in the Oklahoma City area, although the future of some restaurants remains uncertain.

Five Oklahoma locations face potential closures

Meritage Hospitality Group, a Michigan-based company that operates hundreds of Wendy’s restaurants, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on September 17, 2026. The company operates 28 Wendy’s locations in Oklahoma through its subsidiary, WEN Oklahoma. 

In an October 9 report, Fast Company identified five Oklahoma restaurants scheduled for closure as part of Meritage’s restructuring. Two locations — Moore and Choctaw — were among seven restaurants Wendy’s attempted to save. Three additional locations were also slated to close: I-40 and MacArthur, 178th and Western, and Rockwell and Memorial. 

The restaurants appeared to remain open early Friday, October 9, and the closure plans could still change. Customers should check individual locations before visiting.

Bankruptcy puts more restaurants at risk

Meritage has agreed to close at least 30 unprofitable Wendy’s restaurants as part of an arrangement with its lender, according to court filings. The closures are scheduled to occur on a rolling basis through October 16. The company owes one lender more than $135 million, Fast Company reported. 

The bankruptcy follows earlier cost-cutting efforts. Meritage had already closed approximately 60 underperforming Wendy’s restaurants before filing for Chapter 11 protection. The company has cited financial pressures affecting the broader Wendy’s system as it attempts to restructure its balance sheet. 

More Oklahoma closures could follow

The five Oklahoma restaurants are part of a broader restructuring affecting Meritage’s operations across 15 states. The company has said it intends to maintain restaurant operations during bankruptcy, while Wendy’s has emphasized its goal of keeping as many locations open as possible.

With additional closures planned through October 16, Oklahoma customers could see further changes as the bankruptcy process continues.

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