Basis of Presentation Accelerated Depreciation on Image Activation (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013
Accelerated Depreciation IA [Abstract]
Accelerated Depreciation Image Activation	$ 5,755	$ 24,509

Depreciation on existing assets that will be replaced as part of Image Activation initiative

No definition available.

Name:	wen_AcceleratedDepreciationImageActivation
Namespace Prefix:	wen_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration