Former Starbucks exec Rob McGeown takes on Head of Technology UK role at The Wendy’s Company — Retail Technology Innovation Hub
Publish Date: 2026-04-23 00:10:00
Source Domain: retailtechinnovationhub.com
Back in action
Founded in Ohio, USA in 1969, Wendy’s returned to the UK market in 2021, having been away for two decades as it focused on its North American business.
It is targeting 150 new restaurants across Europe by 2028.
Wendy’s first arrived in the UK in 1979/1980, opening a flagship branch on Oxford Street, London. Due to trademark issues, it was initially just called “Wendy”. This first run ended in 1986 when its locations were sold to Whitbread.
It then returned for a second time during 1988/1992. During the 1990s, it operated around ten sites, primarily in London and surrounding areas. But it bid farewell once again to the UK in 2001, citing high property costs and operating overheads that made expansion difficult.
Since the 2021 return, the company has expanded across the country, hitting 50 locations.
2026 RTIH Innovation Awards
Restaurant technology will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.
The awards are now open for entries and celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.
Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.
Check out our 2025 winners here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also…
