WKS Restaurant Group Franchise Overview

About WKS Restaurant Group

WKS Restaurant Group is one of the largest restaurant franchisees in the United States, operating over 380 locations across 20 states, including iconic brands such as Wendy’s, Denny’s, El Pollo Loco, and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts. WKS is the largest franchisee of Denny’s, El Pollo Loco, and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, and holds an 80% majority stake in a Western U.S. joint venture with Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation.
Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Cypress, California, the family-owned company prides itself on a culture of service, operational excellence, and opportunity. WKS is committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences while empowering its 10,000+ team members to lead, serve, and make a difference.

Franchise History

Founded in 1987 by Roland Spongberg, WKS Restaurant Group began with a single El Pollo Loco location in Long Beach, California. Driven by a culture of service and operational excellence, the family-owned business steadily expanded its multi-brand footprint over the next four decades. Through strategic acquisitions and organic growth, WKS added Denny’s, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, and Wendy’s to its portfolio, eventually scaling from 65 to over 380 restaurants across 20 states.