Basis of Presentation Accelerated Depreciation on Image Activation (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Accelerated Depreciation IA [Abstract]
Accelerated Depreciation Image Activation	$ 5,461	$ 4,246	$ 15,019	$ 18,754

Depreciation and/or amortization on existing assets that has been accelerated due to a change in the useful lives of the assets.

No definition available.

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