An American burger restaurant chain that served its last burger in the UK 20 years ago is set to return.
Wendy's is the US's second biggest burger chain and it is threatening to "steal market share" in the UK from rivals McDonald's and Burger King.
The firm first hit the high street in America in 1969. It became famous for its "square beef patties and iconic frosty desserts". Now it plans to open up to 400 UK outlets which are estimated to create at least 12,000 jobs. By comparison, McDonald's has 1,300 UK restaurants.
The time scale for this expansion, however, could take many years, according to the firm.
Abigail Pringle, Wendy's chief development officer, says it is the right time for the company re-enter the UK market. It's departure some 20 years ago was cited as high operating costs.
It looks like its re-emergence in the UK will be part of the firm's expansion into the rest of Europe.
A statement said: "The UK launch will spearhead a European-wide expansion as Wendy's looks to build on strong growth on the other side of the Atlantic, where the brand last year dethroned Burger King to become the No 2 player in the US hamburger market."
The chain currently has 6,800 outlets.
A typical restaurant employs between 30 to 50 staff, the company said.
Reading has been chosen as the first location for the firm with plans for the branch to open next month. Stratford and Oxford will follow.
