Where’s the Beef?  Not at 20% of Wendy’s, Says Analyst

With several meat processing plants closed due to coronavirus, there’s a shortage of fresh meats in the supply chain. Wendy’s, known for its use of fresh hamburger, has been hit particularly hard. About one in five of the QSR’s locations are without beef.

Around 1,000, or 18%, of Wendy's 5,500 US restaurants are not serving any hamburgers or other meat-based items, according to an analysis of online menus at every location conducted by financial firm Stephens, reports CNN.

Wendy's told CNN its delivery schedule remains unchanged, but supply has been tight because beef suppliers across North America face production challenges during the pandemic.

Two of the nation’s largest beef processing plants closed last month due to COVID-19, as have Smithfield pork processing plants and a major Tyson processing plant. As the supply chain continues to face these challenges, supermarkets are impacted as well. Costco, Kroger and Alberstons are among the food retailers limiting purchases of meat.