A report from IBIS World says that the global market size of the fast food industry hit $978.4 billion in 2023. You would be shocked to learn that an average American family spends around 10% of their income on fast food.

The rising popularity of fast food is the result of their easy availability. With hectic schedules as the trend and drive-thrus and online deliveries becoming more popular, people are spending more on fast food items.

But what are the top fast food chains across the world? Let’s explore them.

1. McDonald’s

Number of stores: over 40,000 worldwide

With its presence in over 100 countries across the globe, McDonald’s is undoubtedly the biggest fast-food chain in the world. About one-third of its stores are in the United States. Serving over 69 million customers per day, the annual revenue of McDonald’s was $25.757B as of June 30, 2024. It’s well known for its clown figurine, and some of its most loved items include the Big Mac, Double Cheeseburger, Filet-O-Fish, and Egg McMuffin.

2. Starbucks

Number of stores: over 38,000 stores worldwide

Starbucks’s rapidly growing coffee empire dates back to 1971, when three college friends founded it. Their offerings include over 87,000 possible drink combinations. Besides coffee, they also serve Coffee Jelly Frappuccinos in Japan and lemongrass iced tea and bulgogi (barbecued beef) sandwiches in Korea.

The annual revenue of Starbucks is $36.476B as of June 30, 2024. Starbucks also owns a 240-hectare coffee farm named Hacienda Alsacia , which you can tour virtually.

3. Subway

Number of stores: over 37,000 worldwide

The largest single-brand restaurant chain in the world, Subway is an American multinational food chain. Founded in 1965, it’s headquartered in Milford, Connecticut. With over 20,576 stores in the US itself, its annual revenue is $16.1B as of 2023. However, it lost its growth due to the closing of around 6000 US stores from 2015-2021.

Operated by Subway franchisees, their specialty dishes include fresh, made-to-order sandwiches, subs, wraps, bowls, and salads. One of its stores in Germany is located within a windmill.

4. Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)

Number of stores: over 30,000 stores worldwide

Expanding in over 145 countries, KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) specializes in fried chicken and hamburgers. KFC branches out as a part of the world’s largest restaurant company, Yum! Brands, accounting for 50% of its profit.

You can now find a KFC store worldwide every 3.5 hours on average. Its original recipe is still a secret and includes a blend of 11 herbs and spices. Besides maintaining the diverse taste buds of people globally, KFC’s commitment to quality is what makes it popular. Some of its most ordered items include the original recipe, chicken tenders, and its signature coleslaw.

5. Domino’s

Number of stores: over 20,000 stores worldwide

Remember the 30-minute delivery guarantee from Domino’s? From traditional pizzas to New York-style pizza, it literally has everything for you. The pizza hero serves over 1 million customers daily globally.

Their annual revenue was $4.613B as of June 30, 2024. Domino’s has a global presence of around 90 international locations. From 2006 to 2023, their number of international restaurants has tripled.

6. Burger King

Number of stores: over 19,500 stores worldwide

The world’s second-largest fast-food burger restaurant franchise, Burger King, boasts serving over 11 million customers every single day. Originally named Insta-Burger King, it was founded in 1954. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, Burger King’s first store was opened in Jacksonville, Florida.

Franchising is one of the primary reasons for the expansion of their services. According to a Statista survey , they are amongst the restaurant chains with the maximum brand awareness within the United States.

7. Pizza Hut

Number of stores: over 19,000 stores worldwide

The world’s second-largest pizza chain, Pizza Hut, is also the official pizza sponsor for both the NCAA & the NFL. Founded in 1958, their first international store opened in 1968 in Canada.

The name “Pizza Hut” goes well with its iconic red roof, which resembles a hut. Their annual revenue is $6.8 billion as of 2022, which still makes them one of the top pizza players in the global market.

8. Dunkin’ Donuts

Number of stores: over 13,000 stores

Despite being famous for desserts, namely Boston Cremes, did you know that Dunkin’ Donuts also offers quick breakfast and snacking options? Also, it beats Starbucks and is the largest coffee operator in the Philippines.

It boasts over 3 million daily customers and 2.9 billion doughnuts being sold every year. Moreover, South Korea is its biggest international market, contributing to around 40% of its $12.4 billion global sales.

9. Hunt Brothers Pizza

Number of stores: over 9500 stores worldwide

Hunt Brothers Pizza is a popular American pizza brand known for its convenience and affordability. Founded in 1991 by four brothers, the company specializes in providing ready-to-eat pizzas in non-traditional locations like convenience stores, gas stations, and sports arenas.

Its popularity stems from the unique business model that offers a simple menu, customizable options, and a value-oriented pricing strategy. The brand’s strong presence in rural areas, paired with its “no franchise fee” policy for partners, contributes to its widespread appeal.

10. Taco Bell

Number of stores: over 8500 stores worldwide

Taco Bell, launched by Glen Bell in 1962, is a fast-food chain that’s built a loyal following with its tasty, Mexican-inspired eats like tacos, burritos, and nachos. It’s not just the food that keeps people coming back—it’s Taco Bell’s knack for inventing bold, fun menu items like the Crunchwrap Supreme or the cult-favorite Doritos Locos Tacos.

Known for its budget-friendly prices and playful marketing, Taco Bell speaks to a younger crowd with quirky ads and clever pop culture nods. With vegetarian options, late-night hours, and locations seemingly everywhere, Taco Bell has cemented itself as the go-to for quick and crave-worthy bites.

Some other popular fast food chains

Didn’t find your favourite fast food chain in the list? No worries, here are some other popular and large fast food chains globally.

• Chipotle: around 3500 outlets worldwide

• Wendy’s: around 7240 outlets worldwide

• Chick-fil-A: over 3000 outlets worldwide

• Krispy Kreme: over 1600 outlets worldwide

• Baskin-Robbins: around 7800 outlets worldwide

• Tim Hortons: around 5701 outlets worldwide

• Greggs: over 2500 outlets worldwide

• Café Coffee Day: around 469 outlets

• Dairy Queen: over 7509 stores worldwide

• Shake Shack: over 510 locations worldwide

Conclusion

From McDonald’s golden arches to the finger-licking goodness of KFC, these brands have built massive followings by adapting to local tastes, innovating menus, and delivering consistent experiences. As they continue to expand and evolve, one thing is clear: fast food is here to stay, continually redefining what it means to eat on the go.

Now, what makes these fast food chains flourish in the competitive industry? Their commitment to new technologies and advancements like digital menu boards. Imagine having a digital menu board where you can view all the items with their pricing in a better and interactive way. They are not just engaging but also sustainable.

Want to build a digital menu board? Go check out Pickcel today!