Wendy's/Arby's Group considers Arby's sale

ATLANTA (AP) — Wendy's/Arby's Group Inc. is considering selling its struggling Arby's business and concentrating more on its better-performing Wendy's hamburger chain.

The Atlanta restaurant operator has seen softer sales at both its Wendy's and Arby's locations, but Arby's has struggled more because its sandwiches — which can cost $5 or more — are more expensive than many other fast-food offerings.

Diners turned instead to cheaper alternatives during the economic downturn.

The company announced in November that it would be coming out with lower-priced options at Arby's but now has decided to explore other options, including potentially shedding the business. UBS Investment Bank will help Wendy's/Arby's as it explores alternatives for Arby's.

There are almost 3,700 Arby's restaurants in the chain, which is known best for its roast beef sandwiches. Wendy's has more than 6,500 restaurants in more than 20 countries.

Focusing on the Wendy's brand, given its relative size, is the key to maximizing shareholder's return, Nelson Peltz, the company's chairman, said in a statement today.