Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Image Activation Incentives (Details) (Fiscal Year 2013 [Member], USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 30, 2012
Fiscal Year 2013 [Member]
Franchisee Cash Incentives [Line Items]
Program Maximum Potential Cash Incentive For Franchisees	$ 10,000
Maximum Potential Cash Incentive Amount Per Franchisee	$ 100

Program maximum cash incentive that could potentially be paid to franchisees

No definition available.

Name:	wen_ProgramMaximumPotentialCashIncentiveForFranchisees
Namespace Prefix:	wen_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	instant