Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurant Market Report

Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurant Market Size and Share:

The global fast food and quick service restaurant market size was valued at USD 265.86 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 381.79 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.90% from 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market, holding a market share of over 39.9% in 2024. The market is backed by a high population of urban dwellers, regular dining-out occasions, varied menu options, quick service expectations, promotional pricing tactics, and ongoing investment in innovative food formats, loyalty schemes, and improved in-store customer experiences.

Urbanization is one of the world's biggest drivers behind amplified demand for fast food and quick-service restaurants (QSRs). As population movements continue into cities, longer working hours, and the faster pace of life in cities provide consumers with shorter times for cooking. This transformation has caused greater consumption of convenience food that serves in tight timetables. QSRs and fast food provide an answer through meals that are quickly available, priced affordably, and easily consumed. For example, in March 2025, Bowls N Go opened its second location at Make Ready Market, San Antonio, providing customizable healthy bowls and wraps in a lively downtown food hall environment. Furthermore, the speedy expansion of cities, especially in developing economies, is driving the growth of QSRs, as urban dwellers look for affordable dining options that are timesaving without having to sacrifice taste and affordability. Further, as the world becomes increasingly urbanized, the need for ready-to-eat (RTE) food is also bound to boost. The convenience of being able to readily pick up a meal during commute or between work shifts fits the fast, streamlined culture of QSRs ideally and is becoming a greater necessity in city environments.

In the United States, customization and convenience are quickly becoming top drivers of expansion in the fast food and quick-service restaurant (QSR) markets with the market share of 86.50%. Customers increasingly desire tailored dining experiences, with many finding the convenience of being able to customize their meals to suit certain dietary requirements, tastes, and cravings. The popularity of food delivery apps and mobile ordering platforms has further fueled this movement, enabling customers to customize their meals and receive delivery at their own doorsteps. Convenience is especially important to younger generations who want the liberty to make meals fitting their palate. In response to this, numerous QSRs are leveraging technology to make ordering easier and more customized. For instance, in April 2025, Church's Texas Chicken launched 900 new international sites up from 60 openings in 2024, doubling its size by 50% and shooting for $2 billion in sales per year by 2028. Moreover, the growth in on-demand delivery services has yet again fueled demand for fast, customized meals. This trend isn't just dictating menu formats but also fast food and QSR operations in general, hence making technology convenience a key aspect of the growth of the U.S. market.

Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurant Market Trends:

Growth in Food and Beverage Industry Driving Market Expansion

The international food and beverage sector is growing dramatically, with the fast-food segment being positively affected by the popularity of franchise business models among restaurant chains. Fast food consumption growth is strongly related to the expanding working population and changing consumer lifestyles. The working-age population (15-64 years old) comprised 66.72% of the total population in 2022, as indicated by the OECD. This population is primarily responsible for the demand for fast and readily accessible food. Busy consumers, caught between work and personal obligations, have a clear preference for convenient, quick-on-the-go meals. The food industry has obliged by making a variety of fast-food products that suit the time-pressed consumer. As speed and convenience become more imperative, this sector is likely to keep growing as the fast-food industry evolves in order to stay abreast with the new necessities of contemporary buyers.

Health-Conscious Consumers Shaping the Fast Food Landscape

Health-aware consumers are highly shaping the fast-food industry, with numerous consumers now giving precedence to healthier foods. A 2024 YouGov survey indicated that health-aware snackers in the United States grew from 28% in 2021 to 32% in 2024, especially among consumers aged below 44 years. This change in consumer behavior is forcing quick-service restaurants (QSRs) to innovate and include healthier ingredients in their menus. Those produced from plant, organic, and natural ingredients are highly sought, and processed additives and artificial replacements are being given way to even healthier alternatives. Consumers are also reading food labels more carefully to find those touting organic development, sustainability, and environmental friendly production. And as consumers seek healthier, environmentally friendlier versions, QSRs are changing by creating newer menu offerings addressing these needs. The outcome is a fast food industry that is quickly changing to keep up with customers' desires for health and indulgence, providing improved-for-you options without sacrificing taste.

The Rise of Café Culture and Digitalization in Restaurants

Café culture is increasing, symbolizing an upward trend for social and healthier dining. Cafés have moved away from being just coffee houses to being favorite venues with a range of healthy foods. This transformation is prompted by consumers demanding healthier, plant-based foods that accompany their wellness-driven lifestyles. The need for organic, vegan, and gluten-free food choices is on the rise, encouraging most restaurants and cafés to modify their menu to accommodate this demand. Additionally, the restaurant sector is digitizing, and most restaurants now have touchscreen kiosks, mobile apps, and digital order systems to support the customer. These technologies speed up the order process and become more convenient for customers. In addition to the move towards healthier food, adventurous new flavors are also gaining in popularity. With consumers craving both tradition and innovation in what they eat, the interlinking of café culture and digital technologies is transforming the dining experience for the contemporary consumer.

Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurant Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global fast food and quick service restaurant market, along with forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on business model, cuisine, product type, and service type.

Analysis by Business Model:

• Independent
• Chain and Franchise

In 2024, chain and franchise-owned units had a leading market share holding 57.0% in the fast food and quick service restaurant industry. Their standardized and similar business models created a consistency of service, pricing, and quality of products in outlets, attracting broad customer appeal. The franchising strategy provided instant geographic spread and local responsiveness without sacrificing central control of the brand and operation. These facilities enjoyed economies of scale in purchasing, advertising, and technology rollout, allowing them to be more efficient and competitive. Technological integration, like automated ordering and customer analytics, facilitated better decision-making and individualized service experiences. Chain and franchise formats also benefited from their capacity to quickly roll out promotion campaigns in many regions, cementing customer loyalty. Their investment in physical assets, coupled with investments in digital infrastructure, put them at the forefront of leading growth in the fast food and QSR category in 2024.

Analysis by Cuisine:

• American
• Chinese
• Italian
• Mexican
• Japanese
• Turkish and Lebanese
• Others

American cuisine dominated the quick service restaurant and fast-food industry in 2024, accounting for 26.3% of the market. Defined by such classic fare as burgers, fried chicken, fries, and sandwiches, the segment was extremely popular because of its familiarity, value, and ubiquitous presence. The cuisine's broad appeal was reinforced through streamlined menus, rapid preparation techniques, and uniform taste profiles that appealed across a variety of demographic groups. In both urban and suburban regions, American-style fast food became a common option for consumers looking for convenience without compromising flavor. The category experienced constant menu improvements with toppings and value meals to maintain customer interest. It was also adaptable to different cultural tastes without losing its core identity. Offline service styles like dine-in and takeaway continued to dominate this category, supporting its market dominance and affirming its place in international QSR trends.

Analysis by Product Type:

• Burger and Sandwiches
• Pizzas and Pastas
• Drinks and Desserts
• Chicken and Seafood
• Others

The burgers and sandwiches category held 51.2% market share in the global fast food and quick service restaurant market during 2024, emerging as one of the best-performing categories. It prospered with the offerings of fulfilling, portable meals that can satisfy both individual as well as family appetite. Due to their short preparation time and flexible customization, burgers and sandwiches addressed the need for faster yet satisfying food options. The category also gained from product extension in terms of plant-based offerings and regional flavor crutches without compromising the fundamental formats that contributed to its popularity. The blend of convenience, portability, and diversity helped burgers and sandwiches stay a favorite among consumers of all ages. Their presence across a range of service formats such as counter service, kiosks, and food courts further entrenched their market share. The steady popularity of these products continued to keep this segment at the forefront of fast food innovation and consumer demand.

Analysis by Service Type:

• Online Service
• Offline Service

Offline service held a significant market share of 57.7% in the fast food and QSR space in 2024, pointing to the enduring appeal of physical spaces in the dining habits of consumers. Even as digital mediums emerged, conventional service models of dine-in, takeaway, and drive-thru continued to hold significance because of their immediacy and face-to-face experience. Customers appreciated the convenience of receiving freshly prepared food quickly without delivery delays or extra service charges. Offline sites were also major brand and promotional channels, providing avenues for interactive customer involvement and loyalty generation. The comfort of accessing a physical outlet was perceived as a habit and a point of trust, especially in cities and transport centers. With the inclusion of touchless payment terminals and self-service stations, offline service was made even more user-friendly and efficient. These enhancements were responsible for higher throughput and customer satisfaction, solidifying offline service as a pillar of the fast-food ecosystem.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

North America dominated the world fast food and QSR market in 2024 with a market share of 39.9%, fueled by a mature consumer base, high brand penetration, and well-established infrastructure. The fast-paced lifestyle of the region continued to drive demand for quick, convenient meal options. Urbanization, hectic work schedules, and a high convenience dining culture ensured high foot traffic across QSR outlets. The area also experienced continuous investments in kitchen efficiency, menu variety, and service automation that were customized to changing diets. Extensive coverage of standalone outlets, roadside service formats, and food courts was achieved through a widespread presence to cover metropolitan and suburban markets. Also, customer retention was sustained through loyalty programs, in-store promotions, and personalized service innovations. North America's sophisticated payment infrastructures and regulatory requirements also facilitated a smooth operating environment for QSR companies, enabling the region to maintain its dominance in the international fast food market during 2024.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurant Market Analysis

United States' quick service restaurants and fast-food market is predominantly fueled by mounting demand for convenience, whereby the consumers opt for quick and readily available meal alternatives. Aligning with the above, strongly fluctuating consumers' preferences towards health-conscious and customize menu alternatives prompting QSRs to introduce aligned offerings is fueling the growth of the market. Likewise, constant evolving technologies, like online ordering and mobile apps, that simplify the customer experience, make it more convenient and quicker, are promoting market growth. In an industry report, about 31% of American consumers utilize third-party food delivery services two times a week or more. About 59% of millennial restaurant orders for takeout or delivery. Furthermore, 66% of adults indicate they are more inclined to order food nowadays compared to pre-pandemic times. Growth in the market is further driven by an increase in delivery services, supported by busy lives. Furthermore, boosting economic forces, such as levels of disposable income and promotion prices, are impacting consumer expenditures, thus driving the market. Further, amplified brand loyalty, coupled with good marketing and uniform quality, is keeping a stable base of customers within the market. Except for this, the rising tendency towards value-for-money offerings is steadily reshaping the competitive marketplace.

Europe Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurant Market Analysis

The market in Europe is dominated by the increasing convenience demand because of hectic lifestyles. Apart from this, urbanization at a rapid pace in European cities resulting in amplified footfalls in fast food restaurants is promoting the market growth. Also, the rising use of mobile apps for ordering and payment systems to accelerate customer convenience is driving the market growth. Likewise, a growing trend toward value-based meals and portioning is also driving growth in the market. Dietary preferences changing in favor of going vegetarian and vegan, leading QSRs to expand their offerings is growing the market. In addition, customers' increased food sustainability and ethical sourcing awareness that is driving stronger demand for sustainable practices is pushing greater product uptake. Similarly, the growing popularity of European food chains globally is giving a boost to the market.

Asia Pacific Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurant Market Analysis

The quick service restaurant and fast-food market in Asia-Pacific is being fueled by swift urbanization, resulting in increased demand for convenient eating. According to United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), over 50% of the population of Asia Pacific resides in urban centers, contributing to 54% of the global urban population. Likewise, rising disposable incomes, particularly in developing economies, growing consumer expenditure on fast food is fueling market appeal. In addition, ongoing technological developments, such as app-based delivery platforms and automated ordering systems, are increasing access and convenience in the market. Besides this, growing exposure to international foods through media and travel is broadening consumer tastes, stimulating menu creativity, and building market demand. Apart from this, strategic alliances between QSR chains and food delivery providers, in accordance with the heightened popularity of on-demand dining services in urban as well as semi-urban zones, are bringing in profitable avenues in the industry.

Latin America Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurant Market Analysis

In Latin America, the market is driven by the expansion of urban centers raising the demand for quick dining solutions. In line with this, changing lifestyles of consumers, such as a desire for time-efficient meals, is driving the market growth. Likewise, the expanding young and vibrant population in the region, with growing purchasing power, fueling the development of international and domestic QSR chains is driving market attractiveness. The UN ECLAC estimates that the regional young population stands at about 160 million and will continue to be a large chunk of the total population. Additionally, the growth of digital payment networks and mobile apps is fueling the popularity of online food ordering and delivery services in urban and semi-urban regions, moving development in the market forward.

Middle East and Africa Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurant Market Analysis

Middle Eastern and African fast food and quick service restaurant market is growing with increased population and urbanization, specifically of the younger population. Likewise, rising efforts at economic diversification in many countries, growing urban infrastructure, is fueling demand in the market. In addition, increased influence by Western culture and international cuisines is driving consumer demand for international fast-food chains, thus creating market growth. In addition, the spread of food ordering apps and electronic payment options improving convenience, is having a positive impact on the market.

Competitive Landscape:

The fast food and quick service restaurant (QSR) market operated in a highly competitive landscape characterized by widespread market reach, rapid innovation, and evolving consumer expectations. Brands focused on maintaining customer loyalty by consistently delivering quality products, competitive pricing, and efficient service.The market features a combination of traditional players and new entrants who were all looking to differentiate by means of menu innovation, customer engagement strategies, and technology adoption. Stress was put on convenience, speed, and customizability, with most brands building their digital strengths, such as mobile ordering, rewards schemes, and artificial intelligence-based personalization. Chains in regions and internationally developed their breadth through franchising and optimal placement. Localized locations used niche products and cultural affinity to stay local. Competition also reached operations efficiency, where brands employed automation and supply chain optimization to keep costs under control. When demand from consumers became more health- and sustainability-oriented, brands have responded by shifting menus and purchasing practices accordingly.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the fast food and quick service restaurant market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Ark Restaurants Corp.
• Carrols Restaurant Group Inc.
• Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc.
• Del Taco Restaurants Inc.
• Jack in The Box Inc.
• Kotipizza Group Oyj (Orkla ASA)
• McDonald's Corporation
• Restaurant Brands International Inc.
• The Wendy's Company
• Yum Brands Inc.

Latest News and Developments:

• March 2025: Swiggy teamed up with Domino's to provide swift deliveries through its Bolt service. Consumers can order Domino's pizzas, sides, and drinks through the Swiggy app, with deliveries handled by Domino's last-mile network. The partnership bolsters Swiggy's quick-service segment and Domino's India footprint.
• February 2025: BIGGUYS, a rapidly expanding Indian chicken QSR brand, has set out to open 150 cloud kitchens by 2030, with a target revenue of INR 72 Crore. With 50 cloud kitchens in the pipeline by 2025, the asset-light, digital-first model will extend its presence in Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities.
• January 2025: Tucker's Farm Corporation affiliate Wonder Franchises bought west coast QSR franchisor Pizza Factory, having 110 stores and USD 90 Million of annual sales. Boxwood Partners guided Wonder on the buy that strengthened its coverage of the quick-service restaurant sector.
• January 2025: Nardone Brothers Baking Co., a maker of frozen pizza for K-12, private label retail and foodservice distribution channels, was acquired by MBC Companies. The acquisition deepens MBC's portfolio with lunch, dinner, and late-night offerings and strengthens its hold in the frozen food category.
• September 2024: Konala partnered with Fransmart to expand its healthy fast-food franchise to 1,000 locations over 10 years. Known for its protein-packed bowls and fryer-free menu, Konala offers drive-thru convenience with a focus on health. The concept aims to transform the fast-food industry with low labor costs and efficient operations.
• April 2024: Yum Brands introduced an AI-first initiative to improve fast-food operations for Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, KFC, and Habit Burger Grill. Some of these innovations are the SuperApp restaurant management, AI-based kitchen systems, self-service kiosks, and customized customer experiences, designed to increase efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurant Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the fast food and quick service restaurant market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global fast food and quick service restaurant market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the fast food and quick service restaurant industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.