Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies Capital Expenditures (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 30, 2012
Guarantees and Other Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]
Outstanding Commitment for Capital Expenditure, Expected Cash Outflow Within Next 12 Months	$ 22,109
Outstanding Commitment for Capital Expenditures for Image Activation Within Next 12 Months	$ 13,867

Outstanding Commitment for Capital Expenditure, Expected Cash Outflow During 2013

No definition available.

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Namespace Prefix:	wen_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant