Dave Thomas (businessman)

Area franchising and the drive-through. Thomas learned the trade as a Kentucky Fried Chicken franchisee, turning round struggling outlets in Columbus, Ohio, before opening the first Wendy's there in 1969. Wendy's sold franchises for whole areas to developers who would build many outlets quickly, and popularised the pick-up window. He later became the chain's homely face in television adverts. He died in 2002.