Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Principles of Consolidation (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014 funds	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Number of Advertising Funds	2
Franchisee-Owned Wendy's / Tim Hortons Canadian Combo Units [Member] | Franchise Revenues [Member]
Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments Restatement [Line Items]
Prior Period Error, Unadjusted		$ 7,544	$ 7,724
Franchisee-Owned Wendy's / Tim Hortons Canadian Combo Units [Member] | Other operating expense, net [Member]
Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments Restatement [Line Items]
Prior Period Error, Unadjusted		7,544	7,724
Franchisee-Owned Wendy's / Tim Hortons Canadian Combo Units [Member] | Operating Income (Loss) [Member]
Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments Restatement [Line Items]
Prior Period Error, Unadjusted		$ 0	$ 0