Wendy’s opens IT innovation center

Dublin, Ohio – The Wendy’s Company is the latest retail chain to open a dedicated technology center. Wendy’s has launched 90 Degrees Labs near the campus of The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio.



The labs will provide an open, collaborative environment for Wendy's employees to explore forward-looking ways to utilize technology for key business initiatives. The facility will house about 25 IT and operations employees who will focus on opportunities to spur innovation, while working closely with employees from Wendy's Dublin Restaurant Support Center.



The labs' first efforts will center on consumer-facing opportunities involving Wendy's restaurants, such as mobile ordering, pay and other digital experiences. Efforts also will include strengthening support systems like optimizing business intelligence and internal communications technologies.



Encompassing more than 8,200-sq.-ft. that can accommodate nearly 90 people, the interior of the facility includes a simulated Wendy's restaurant, moveable "stand-up" work stations and a layout that encourages interaction and communication.



"Our goal is to create an agile working environment, with a dedicated cross-functional team, that will enable us to take greater advantage of rapidly evolving technology in all areas of our business," said Emil Brolick, president and CEO, The Wendy's Company. "The labs will be an important asset in Wendy's continuing transformation, as we work to drive growth by making our restaurants more inviting and by giving consumers greater access to our brand through technology."