(24) Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Letters of Credit (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 01, 2012
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Letters of credit outstanding	$ 21,326
Wendy's Restaurants, LLC [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Letters of credit outstanding	$ 20,657

The total amount of the contingent obligation under letters of credit outstanding as of the reporting date.

No definition available.

Name:	us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant