Menu
For Business Write a review File a complaint
Wendy’s Customer Service Phone, Email, Contacts

Wendy’s
Reviews and Complaints

www.wendys.com

Learn how the rating is calculated

1.2 16 Reviews 1746 Complaints
Claim Your Business
Take control of your profile: address complaints and engage with reviews
Write a review File a complaint

Wendy’s Complaints 1746

ComplaintsBoard
C
7:37 pm EST

Wendy’s food quality

Wow. I remember Wendy's was the best fast food money could buy in the 1980's & 1990's. The burgers were juicy and delicious and the fries were to die for...plump soft potatoes steaming hot and delicious. When Chick-fil-et came about, I must admit that I rarely went to Wendy's. Well, I took my grandsons to Wendy's yesterday and one of them got the baconator, small frosty & small fry...almost 9 dollars just for that, for God's sake. Anyway, I tasted the fries and they were awful. Hard, not much potato, grease smell was nasty. The baconator meat was dry. Really? The frosty was good.
You're company has really gone downhill to me, because I was there when it was the BEST fast food around. No longer.

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
L
4:20 pm EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Wendy’s time

I just was at Wendy's in Warsaw, NC. There were no cars in the parking lot so I assumed quick service. I set at the drive thur for about 7 minutes an a female finally said she would be with me in a few minutes. Another 6 or 7 minutes later she came back to take my order. After giving my order 3 times, kids chicken nuggets with frys, small chocolate frosty an 2 medium chocolate frostys, I was told to drive to window for total. I pulled to window where I saw 3 or 4 employees milling around an 1 on her cell phone. After sitting another 5 minutes with no acknowledgement of my presents l came home an fixed my Granddaughter a snack

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
A
6:27 pm EST

Wendy’s service received

I arrived at Wendy's on 21st Street in Newark, Ohio on Monday, November 27, 2017 at 6:10 PM.
The drive thru was backed up by approximately 7 cars deep so I decided to go into the restaurant. When inside, there was a long line of people waiting there for their food as well.
I placed an order for two small frostys and began my wait. There were around 10 people at that time waiting for their food as well. I waited a total of 20 mins for two small frostys.
It was the most disorganized, filthy place I had ever seen. There were workers running around trying to fill orders and not having any idea what they were doing. There was a huge pile of fries on the floor that had not been cleaned up and the Coke machine was broken in the seating area so customers were also waiting in line to have refills on their drinks and having to wait 5 or 10 mins for refills.
This is absolutely an unacceptable way of doing business and someone needs to visit that location and get it under control before it completely closes!

Read full review of Wendy’s and 1 comment
Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
P
P
pobarjenkins
Minneapolis, US
Send a message
Nov 28, 2017 12:55 am EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

They may have been unexpectedly short-staffed at that time.

ComplaintsBoard
S
3:47 pm EST

Wendy’s service

The Elmsford, NY WENDY'S always has issues with product s or services everytime I visit or drive thru. On the drive thru I must constantly go back for ketchup or s/p or my sauce selection is screwed up. I tell them no mayo they forget and put mayo. Just recently I saw the 4 for 4 commercial for the double stack and as soon as I get there the female server tells me " We not doing that yet! So do u want something else?!" I said "I saw the commercial how could u not be doing it?" She yelled at me " because we ain't doing it yet." Then closed the drive thru window and ignored me. I don't appreciate that from my local establishment, maybe I go back to BK."

Read full review of Wendy’s and 1 comment
Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
P
P
pobarjenkins
Minneapolis, US
Send a message
Nov 27, 2017 4:41 pm EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

The advertisements that show deals like the "4 for 4" typically state that it applies to participating locations only. The location you went to may not be participating yet. In the future, if you do choose to go back, you may want to check your food before you leave the restaurant to make sure it's correct. I know that I try to do that each time whenever I go to Wendy's or other fast food restaurants.

ComplaintsBoard
T
3:31 pm EST

Wendy’s customer service/ hygiene

Good evening,
My name is Tiffany Vaughn and I had a horrible experience at you all's location in Oakwood, Ga. I am appalled that I was given molded bread and also tomatoes which were ritten and a cold sandwich and fries. This is upsetting as well as their green teeth which is a blight in regards to working in a public sector. I paid 30.00 for all of my food items and feel as though I should be reimbursed.

Read full review of Wendy’s and 1 comment
Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
P
P
pobarjenkins
Minneapolis, US
Send a message
Nov 27, 2017 9:28 pm EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

If you still have the food, you could bring it back to the location of purchase along with your receipt for a replacement or refund. If you don't, you could still try to call or visit, but you will most likely need your receipt. Either way, it's very rude to judge someone by their teeth. They may have a medical condition or cannot afford good dental care.

ComplaintsBoard
H
11:58 pm EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Wendy’s complaining about service and the smell of marijuana from two employees

I came into the drive-thru at 11:35 p. m. on 11/26/2017 two (male glasses, light skinned, big hair and female (wore black company shirt with headset) employees were sitting at the back end of Wendy's restaurant near the drive-thru whenever I pulled up once I opened my window to place my order I could smell the smell of marijuana coming from the same direction as two of your employees this is coming from the restaurant 135 Short Boulevard Dallas, Texas employees were rude and smelled of marijuana. No one was friendly no one cared to ensure my order was correct or if I ordered anything period.

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
P
1:39 pm EST

Wendy’s shift leader

I was in line with about 7 other people, we were out for Lunch & everytime this short male manger with braids is always rude and loud to his team member and there be a lot of yelling. I will not be returning here & also tell friends and family not to go to this Wendy's because there is no piece too sit and relax& eat my food I just paid for. Please Resolved the problem.

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
D
12:47 am EST

Wendy’s chicken sandwich

Served a Raw! Chicken sandwhich have pictures of the sandwhich, 75% is Raw. Took 3 bites in til realized. Absolutely appalling and disgusting. Person eating is a 21 year old mother of an infant who can't afford to be sick. She tried to make her self puke after seeing the chicken was raw and couldn't. Now is waiting to see if she can get medicine or something to prevent disease. Macdonald's has better quality chicken. Disgusting

Read full review of Wendy’s
View 0 more photos
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
E
10:21 pm EST

Wendy’s staff

I recently quit working at the Wendy's I Logan Ohio due to the poor attitude and management of the head manager Dave and one of his other "managers" Kim.
I worked at this Wendy's for about 9 months. Prior to starting this job I had zero knowledge of what to do and was thrown into the job position with little to no help. Dave and Kim both on multiple occasions have been in my face cursing and screaming at me. Dave the head manager hit me and got in my face screaming at me and that's why I left Wendy's.
I was burnt by oil from the deep fryers and was refused to go home by Dave. I then took it to myself to leave and go to the hospital which then I found out that my arm was infected. They made me file workers comp at the hospital and then Dave tried to get other employees to say it never happened.
Kim has grabbed on a gentleman's person areas when he used to work at Wendy's. She then said it was a joke.
Dave has slapped girls on the butt at work before as well.
Many of the employees at Wendy's were never made to do the welearn things so they haven't completed proper training.
The two managers Teresa and Adam are the ONLY reason that the Logan Wendy's is still standing. One of the other crew members named Debbie takes on more responsibility to get things done around the store than Dave does. If it weren't for them picking up the slack of everyone else nothing would be done proper.
The store is a nasty mess and I'm very surprised that people don't get sick from the overdue food they serve to customers.
It blows my mind that this has went on for such a long time and nothing has been done about it. I really really hope that someone will put an end to the problems there because most of the employees only stay because that is their only choice.

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
K
10:31 pm EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Wendy’s food

I'd say I arrived at Wendy's (5560 Central Ave, Toledo, OH 43615) at about 10:54pm. When I pulled up to the speaker, I ordered a chicken sandwich with 3 pieces of bacon and fry. After my order was placed I was asked to pull up to the window. The girl at the window, who was not friendly, didn't greet me in anyways besides telling me my total. I had gave her my money, and she gave me my change back without a receipt (which I didn't find a big deal until my food came out the way that it did). When I received my order, my chicken was rock hard, so hard that if someone were to bite into it, they would have had to literally yank the sandwich from their mouth, and not only was is rock hard and unable to it, but it was also cold, as well as my french fries. If I wasn't on my way to work, and had to be there by 11:05, I would have turned around and received my money back. Though, being I had to be to work, I wasted my money and now have to go through an eleven hour shift hungry because I forgot my meal at home. The worst part of it all is that this was my first time in about 8 years that I've had Wendy's and with a situation like that? I will never return to another Wendy's again.

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
K
2:48 pm EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Wendy’s napkin in drinking cup filled with soda

This is regarding the Wendy's, store #[protected], located at 1530 Milton Ave., Janesville, WI 53545. I purchased meals and drinks today, 11/22/17. When I got home, There was a balled up napkin at the bottom of my cup, which was discovered after I drank my drink. When I contacted them and explained what happened, they offered a new drink. This is not acceptable and I do not plan to go back.

Read full review of Wendy’s
View 0 more photos
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
J
8:55 pm EST

Wendy’s discrimination

I was a costumer at the Wendy's on 360 Dingens st, Buffalo N.Y. Standing at the counter I overheard on Sunday; what looks to be a manager with the name tag Keith, calling a young black male a "Gay [censor]" and repeatedly asking him if "There was something wrong or if it was simply his time of the month". I found this extremely disturbing that none of the employees said anything and stood there laughing. The poor young man stood there embarassed

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
Q
11:51 pm EST

Wendy’s food/ service

I went to the ironton Wendy's at 12:20 i ordered a chocolate chip cookie and chili and a drink all of the workers were out side smoking and looked annoyed to even have to come in and take my order i ignored it and took my order one employee comes straight in from outside to the front w out even washing their hands to handle my food i was irritated but over looked it as i was driving away i see that it isn't even the right cookie. I didn't want to have to speak to the employees there that night (bc the usual staff I see are very friendly) so i just went home. I get into my bag and my chili isn't even relatively warm ( usually it is steaming or atleast hot and soupy) this just looked like a cold ball of chili. I touched it and it was very cold. Even though it is late they should still have the decency to respect the paying customer. They didn't even take the time to warn it up. It's just disappointing that they had no sense of care. and i usually wouldn't mind but what if i was on my way to work and didn't have a microwave it's just inconcedrate. Y

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
D
9:47 pm EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Wendy’s customer service received from a shallowford rd, marietta, ga site.

My husband attempted to purchase a late night dinner for our entire family. He attempted to walk in the door at 9:47pm, on a Friday night. The door was already locked. The staff member looked at him from inside, flipped him off, and said, "F#}% You!"

We have lived here for over 25 years, and dined with you 1-2 times per week, with our entire family. I am appalled, and done with your facility. We'll not be back, and have nothing to say about the local Wendy's.

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
A
5:44 pm EST

Wendy’s missing drink

I went through the drive through at Wendy's on Chili Ave, Chili, NY. Ordered a kids meal with chocolate milk, among other things. Was handed my drink and two bags and told I was 'all set' so I assumed the chocolate milk was in the bag, it wasn't. Called to have refund for missing drink, manager refused, why is this company allowed to steal from me?

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
F
9:26 pm EST

Wendy’s both service and product

If I wait in another 20 30 min line and 20 mins at the order screen listening to people keep saying hang on I'm going to blast wendys on every socia media available, including the locAL news station, who love stuff like this . No tea, one thang u can make ur self and should never run out off bc some people don't drink anything thing but tea and water, and I don't want ur nasty water no offence . Food was cooled and stuff missing and plus the wait, I mine as well make my own food and I might just do that . Thanks for nothing bc I have complained way to many time and see no results or feed back from it that we'll just mark wendys out of our lives in Mcleansville nc

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
W
10:47 am EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Wendy’s service

General complaint against the Wendys store located in Hershey at the Tanger outlets.
This store has been a favorite drive thru store for several years.. Within the past month service has eroded dramatically. Twenty minute waits are becoming common. Last evening, November 16, 2017 around 5PM, ran into the same problem again. The window person kept apologizing citing "...some problems". the time before I had a long wait, and the chili for my wifes taco salad wasn't included. I went inside and had to wait in a long line to get the rest of my order.

Please check into what happened to this franchise in the past month. It went from efficient to a zoo.

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
A
11:13 pm EST

Wendy’s customer service

I waited in the drive thru line behind 5 cars & when I got to the window I was told they were closed. It was 11:57 am. The web states they close at 1 which could be wrong but they need to change it. Neither here nor there, there are 3 minutes left til actual coding unless the store serves their friends after hours in the drive thru. I stated the time to three worker and was told to leave. I called the store immediately anecdotes was hung up on. This just happened Thursday 11/16/17 @ 11:57 pm. I will not repete or refer business to this location and will post of this on social media.

Read full review of Wendy’s and 1 comment
Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
P
P
pobarjenkins
Minneapolis, US
Send a message
Nov 17, 2017 2:09 am EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Have you tried calling the store and asking for the manager? Maybe they can advise on the situation and their hours.

ComplaintsBoard
J
1:07 pm EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Wendy’s customer service

I would like to make a Complaint about customer service at Wendy's Located on Rawsonville Rd in Belleville MI. Going through Drive Through (10pm Wed, 11.15.17) I ordered a Spicy Chicken on a Regular Bun and the Crew Member SAM Stated she could not give me a regular bun without approval. She asked what size meal I wanted and once told continued to cut me off while I continued to place the rest of my orders. She cut me off to the point I Didn't want to purchase anything and requested to speak to the manage ( Will) once I spoke to him at the window he stated that he heard her and she has to get his approval for a regular bun ( yelling) i told him i Always order regular buns. He then stated that he has worked there 4 months and has never seen my Car. I requested the number to corporate and he said "I will call them on my cell phone right now" I told him NO write the number down along with his name and the Crew members name because their actions are inappropriate. He said everything was being recorded. He wrote down the names Will (manager) SAM (crew) he then stated the number is on the back of the blank receipt paper. After I began to pull off he started using very profane language. I then stopped and asked if what he said was recorded as well. He began yelling so I pulled over to call Corporate so that they would hear. He threatened to call the police on me in which there was no reason as I pulled over to call corporate/ I did get someone on the phone to make my complaint but I have not heard back.

Read full review of Wendy’s and 1 comment
Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
P
P
pobarjenkins
Minneapolis, US
Send a message
Nov 16, 2017 4:34 pm EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

At most what will happen is the employees in question will receive a verbal warning (if there really is a recording or they admit to your version of events being correct). Was there a particular resolution you were looking for?

ComplaintsBoard
A
2:57 pm EST

Wendy’s product

I got 4 crispy chicken sandwiches and fries I told them no tomatoes as my kids don't like it . To go
I always go to Wendy's we buy our food all the time there this time very disappointed the lettuce in my daughters burger had a black little bug inside . We tossed our food away that's very unhygienic. I didn't get any response from the staff when I called them back . Would like my refund

Read full review of Wendy’s
Hide full review

Wendy’s Reviews 0

Looks like Wendy’s has no reviews yet.
Write a review
Subscribe to receive notifications of all new customer feedback

If you represent Wendy’s, take charge of your business profile by claiming it and stay informed about any new reviews or complaints submitted.

👉 Claim your business

About Wendy’s

Screenshot Wendy’s
Wendy's is a fast-food chain that has been serving up delicious burgers, fries, and frosties since 1969. With over 6,700 locations worldwide, Wendy's has become a household name in the fast-food industry. The company's commitment to quality ingredients and fresh, never frozen beef has set it apart from its competitors.

One of Wendy's most popular menu items is the Baconator, a double cheeseburger topped with six strips of bacon. This mouth-watering burger has become a fan favorite, and it's easy to see why. The combination of juicy beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese is simply irresistible.

In addition to its burgers, Wendy's also offers a variety of other menu items, including chicken sandwiches, salads, and sides like chili and baked potatoes. And let's not forget about the famous Frosty, a creamy, chocolatey treat that has been a staple at Wendy's since the beginning.

But Wendy's is more than just a fast-food chain. The company is committed to giving back to the community through its Wendy's Wonderful Kids program, which helps find permanent homes for children in foster care. Wendy's also supports various charitable organizations, including the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and the National Adoption Day Coalition.

Overall, Wendy's is a beloved fast-food chain that has stood the test of time. With its commitment to quality ingredients, delicious menu items, and charitable efforts, it's no wonder why Wendy's has become a household name.
How to file a complaint about Wendy’s?

1. Log in or create an account: Ensure you are logged in to your ComplaintsBoard.com account. If you do not have an account, please register by providing the necessary information and verifying your email address.

2. Navigating to the complaint form: Once logged in, locate the 'File a Complaint' button situated at the top right corner of the website and click on it to access the complaint form.

3. Writing the title: In the 'Complaint Title' field, concisely summarize your main issue with Wendy's. Make it specific and clear, such as "Incorrect Order at Wendy's Downtown Location" or "Poor Customer Service at Wendy's on Main Street".

4. Detailing the experience: In the complaint description, provide a detailed account of your experience. Mention key areas such as:

  • The specific location and time of your visit to Wendy's.
  • The nature of the issue, whether it was related to food quality, hygiene, customer service, or incorrect billing.
  • Describe the order or service you received and how it did not meet expectations.
  • Include any interactions with Wendy's staff and their response to your issue.
  • Detail any steps you took to resolve the issue with Wendy's, including any communication with management.
  • Explain how this issue has personally affected you, such as causing inconvenience, health issues, or financial loss.

5. Attaching supporting documents: Attach any relevant documents or images that support your complaint, such as receipts, photos of the product, or correspondence with the company. Do not include sensitive personal information in your attachments.

6. Filing optional fields: Use the 'Claimed Loss' field to indicate any financial loss you have incurred due to the issue. In the 'Desired Outcome' field, specify what resolution you are seeking from Wendy's, such as a refund, an apology, or corrective action.

7. Review before submission: Carefully review your complaint for clarity, accuracy, and completeness. Ensure that all the information provided is correct and that your description clearly conveys the issue and your desired outcome.

8. Submission process: After reviewing your complaint, click the 'Submit' button to officially file your complaint on ComplaintsBoard.com.

9. Post-Submission Actions: After submitting your complaint, regularly check your account on ComplaintsBoard.com for any responses or updates. You may receive feedback from Wendy's or from other users who have had similar experiences.

Overview of Wendy’s complaint handling

Wendy’s reviews first appeared on Complaints Board on Jan 2, 2007. The latest review Lost id wallet in Wendy's was posted on Oct 31, 2024. The latest complaint a manager was resolved on Oct 09, 2017. Wendy’s has an average consumer rating of 1 stars from 1762 reviews. Wendy’s has resolved 110 complaints.
Ratings on other review websites
Trustpilot
Trustpilot
2.2
780 reviews
Trust badge
Collect Your Trust Badge
Be recognized for outstanding customer service
  1. Wendy’s Contacts

  2. Wendy’s phone numbers
    +1 (888) 624-8140
    +1 (888) 624-8140
    Click up if you have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (888) 624-8140 phone number 0 0 users reported that they have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (888) 624-8140 phone number Click down if you have unsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (888) 624-8140 phone number 0 0 users reported that they have UNsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (888) 624-8140 phone number
    Customer Care
    +1 (614) 764-8478
    +1 (614) 764-8478
    Click up if you have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-8478 phone number 0 0 users reported that they have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-8478 phone number Click down if you have unsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-8478 phone number 3 3 users reported that they have UNsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-8478 phone number
    +1 (614) 764-3044
    +1 (614) 764-3044
    Click up if you have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3044 phone number 1 1 users reported that they have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3044 phone number Click down if you have unsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3044 phone number 0 0 users reported that they have UNsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3044 phone number
    +1 (614) 764-3368
    +1 (614) 764-3368
    Click up if you have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3368 phone number 0 0 users reported that they have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3368 phone number Click down if you have unsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3368 phone number 0 0 users reported that they have UNsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3368 phone number
    Media Contact
    +1 (614) 764-3300
    +1 (614) 764-3300
    Click up if you have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3300 phone number 0 0 users reported that they have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3300 phone number Click down if you have unsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3300 phone number 0 0 users reported that they have UNsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3300 phone number
    +1 (614) 764-3327
    +1 (614) 764-3327
    Click up if you have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3327 phone number 0 0 users reported that they have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3327 phone number Click down if you have unsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3327 phone number 0 0 users reported that they have UNsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3327 phone number
    Animal Control
    +1 (614) 764-3311
    +1 (614) 764-3311
    Click up if you have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3311 phone number 0 0 users reported that they have successfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3311 phone number Click down if you have unsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3311 phone number 0 0 users reported that they have UNsuccessfully reached Wendy’s by calling +1 (614) 764-3311 phone number
    Vice President Investor Relations
    More phone numbers
  3. Wendy’s emails
  4. Wendy’s address
    1 Dave Thomas Blvd, Dublin, Ohio, 43017, United States
  5. Wendy’s social media
  6. Andrew
    Checked and verified by Andrew This contact information is personally checked and verified by the ComplaintsBoard representative. Learn more
    Dec 16, 2024
  7. View all Wendy’s contacts
Wendy’s Category
Wendy’s is ranked 8 among 60 companies in the Fast Food Chains category

Our Commitment

We stand for unbiased reviews

We make sure all complaints and reviews are from real people sharing genuine experiences.

We help resolving issues

We offer easy tools for businesses and reviewers to solve issues together. Learn how it works.

We advocate freedom of speech

We support and promote the right for reviewers to express their opinions and ideas freely without censorship or restrictions, as long as it's respectful and within our Terms and Conditions, of course ;)

We ensure transparent and fair ratings

Our rating system is open and honest, ensuring unbiased evaluations for all businesses on the platform. Learn more.

We care about your privacy

Personal details of reviewers are strictly confidential and hidden from everyone.

We are easy, free and open to everyone

Our website is designed to be user-friendly, accessible, and absolutely free for everyone to use.