Wendy’s journey in Puerto Rico began in 1978, marking a significant milestone when Jorge Colon Sr. became the brand’s first franchisee on the island. This marked the inception of Wendco of Puerto Rico, a company that has since become a thriving enterprise, employing 3,500 individuals across numerous Wendy’s locations. At the heart of this success story is not just the popular fast-food chain, but also the people who wear the iconic Wendy’s uniform every day, embodying the brand’s values and commitment.
Jorge Colon Jr., now leading Wendco, shared insights into the company’s 40-year journey and its exciting future. When reflecting on his early experiences with Wendy’s, one particular memory stands out: his first encounter with the Wendy’s uniform at the tender age of 12. During a trip to Ohio with his parents to sign the franchise documents, young Jorge had the unique opportunity to meet Dave Thomas, the founder of Wendy’s. Thomas invited him to work for a day at the Wendy’s booth at the Ohio State Fair. Donning a small-sized Wendy’s uniform, Jorge learned the ropes of customer service, even receiving a lesson from Dave Thomas himself on the proper way to wipe tables. This early immersion in the Wendy’s culture, symbolized by the Wendy’s uniform, left a lasting impression.
“He got me a small-sized uniform, I rolled up my short sleeves, got my cap on, and he showed me how to wipe tables the right way. I still show my kids that,” Jorge recalls. This anecdote highlights the significance of the Wendy’s uniform not just as work attire, but as an entry point into the Wendy’s family and its values.
Throughout his teenage years, while his peers enjoyed beach outings, Jorge dedicated his time to working at Wendy’s restaurants. Starting at 16, he took on various roles, mastering every station from fries to front-of-house operations. Each role came with its own experience and, of course, the consistent presence of the Wendy’s uniform. This hands-on experience, wearing the Wendy’s uniform and working alongside fellow employees, instilled in him a deep understanding of the business from the ground up.
His commitment to Wendy’s extended beyond summer jobs. Even after a brief stint in law school, Jorge’s passion for the family business and the Wendy’s brand drew him back. His father agreed to his return, but with a condition: formal management training within Wendy’s U.S. This led Jorge to Atlanta for a rigorous four-month management program. Once again, the Wendy’s uniform became a daily part of his life, signifying his dedication to learning every aspect of restaurant management, from procedures to customer service excellence. He immersed himself in the training, excelling in the program and further solidifying his belief in the Wendy’s brand and its potential in Puerto Rico.
Today, Wendco of Puerto Rico operates 78 Wendy’s restaurants, with ongoing expansion plans. Jorge Colon Jr.’s journey, starting with that first Wendy’s uniform at age 12, showcases the opportunities and growth inherent in the Wendy’s system. The Wendy’s uniform represents more than just a dress code; it symbolizes hard work, dedication, and the potential for advancement within a successful and expanding brand in Puerto Rico. For many employees, putting on the Wendy’s uniform is the first step in their own journey within the Wendy’s family, a journey that, like Jorge’s, can lead to significant personal and professional growth.
