Fast Food Market Size to Reach USD 863.81 Billion in 2025

Fast Food Market to Accelerate with Urban Lifestyles and Digital Ordering Trends

The global fast food market size is projected to touch from USD 863.81 billion in 2025 to USD 1,340.06 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 5% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. This market’s expansion is fueled by evolving consumer lifestyles, increasing urbanization, and demand for quick, affordable meals. Innovations in menu offerings, digital ordering, and plant-based fast food options are further accelerating growth across global markets.

Last Updated: 15 July 2025 Category: Food Services Industry Insight Code: 5719 Format: PDF / PPT / Excel

Fast Food Market Size, Share and Future Projections 2034

The global fast food market size calculated at USD 822.68 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to increase from USD 863.81 billion in 2025 to an estimated USD 1,340.06 billion by 2034, witnessing a CAGR of 5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. The growing inclination towards the faster and convenient food options due to the busy lifestyle accelerate the market expansion.

Fast Food Market Size 2025 to 2034

Key Highlights

  • By region, North America dominated the fast food market in 2024, due to the increasing consumer busy lifestyles. 
  • By region, Asia Pacific is expected to grow at a notable CAGR from 2025 to 2034 during the forecast period, which is driven by the increasing working population. 
  • By product, the burgers and sandwiches segment held a major market share in 2024, driven by the increasing demand for bakery products.
  • By product, the pizza segment is projected to grow at a CAGR between 2025 and 2034, driven by the increasing consumer trend towards parties and celebrations.
  • By service, the quick-service restaurants (QSRs) segment held a major market share in 2024, driven by increasing demand for hotels and restaurants. 
  • By service, the full-service fast food segment is projected to grow at a CAGR between 2025 and 2034, due to the rising preference of personalized fast food products.
  • By cuisine, the American cuisine segment dominated the market in 2024, due to the increasing popularity of western food culture. 
  • By cuisine, the Asian cuisine segment is expected to grow rapidly due to increasing consumer preference towards traditional foods.
  • By category, the non-vegetarian segment dominated the market in 2024, due to the increasing demand for meat across the globe. 
  • By category, the vegetarian and vegan segment is expected to grow rapidly, due to the increasing preference towards plant-based and vegan food. 
  • By distribution channel, the takeaway/drive-thru segment dominated the market in 2024, due to the increasing demand for offline stores.
  • By distribution channel, the delivery segment is expected to grow rapidly, due to the increasing integration of various online food delivery apps.

Industry Coverage

Study Coverage Details
Growth Rate from 2025 to 2034 CAGR of 5%
Market Size in 2025 USD 863.81 Billion
Market Size in 2026 USD 907 Billion
Market Size by 2034 USD 1,340.06 Billion
Largest Market North America
Base Year 2024
Forecast Period 2025 to 2034
Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa

The Increasing Demand for Quick-Service Food Products May Enhance Consumer’s Convenience

The Fast Food Market refers to the global industry involved in the preparation and sale of quick-service food products that are typically mass-produced, pre-cooked, or semi-prepared to ensure speedy service and convenience for consumers. This market includes a broad range of food service establishments such as burger chains, pizza outlets, fried chicken restaurants, sandwich and bakery cafés, and ethnic food outlets. Fast food is characterized by affordability, standardized taste, and high consumer turnover, making it a key pillar of the global foodservice industry. 

One of the major driving factors propelling the growth of the market is increasing spending on food and changing consumer preferences. The rising expansion of a variety of food service outlets is gaining popularity in developing and developed markets around the globe. The various popular brands, such as Burger King, KFC, McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, Domino’s, and many more, are widely used by consumers, which accelerates the demand for these brands. In addition, growing tourism, a rapidly growing population, and an increase in household incomes are further expected to fuel the growth of the market.

  • Increasing working population: People are rapidly preferring hotels and restaurants and avoiding home cooking, due to their busy lifestyles and work schedules, as various restaurants offer meal kits and delivery services, which may increase the demand for fast food.
  • Increasing number of quick-service restaurants: The quick-service restaurants allow delivery of food instantly in less time, which is expected to drive the growth of the fast food market.
  • Increasing focus on plant-based & protein: The increasing need for plant-based fast foods such as lab-grown proteins, nuggets, and burgers is gaining popularity, due to health awareness, which is further expected to drive global market growth.

Market Opportunity 

How Technology is Reshaping Fast Food

The rising technological advancements in the fast food industry is revolutionizing market growth. The new standards in fast food are rewards programmes, online ordering, and mobile apps, which are adding perks to the fast food industry. Various technologies offer a seamless app-based ordering system that improves consumer satisfaction and efficiency.

The rise of digital innovation helps the fast food industry with convenience and speed. To suggest personalized menu options, advanced data tracking enables restaurants to make every order feel comfortable. This fusion of customization and technology can help consumers experience their favorite fast food brands, which are further expected to revolutionize the growth of the fast food market in the coming years.

Market Challenge 

Increasing health consciousness among consumers 

Consumption of fast food in huge quantities can cause various health issues, such as heart disease, digestive issues, an increase in body obesity, and other medical problems. The resulting health conditions and unsaturated fat content of fast foods can create major challenges in the global market. In addition, increasing health awareness among people is related to the harmful impacts of consuming fast food in unhealthy foods, high-calorie foods, and cholesterol, which is further expected to restrain the growth of the fast food market.

Regional Insights

How Do North America Dominates the Largest Fast Food Market Revenue in 2024? 

North America dominated the market revenue in 2024. The market growth in the region is attributed to the rising investments in the fast food industry, increasing presence of major market players, increasing consumer preference towards plant-based and vegan food products, increasing demand for budget-friendly snacks and fast food, increasing disposable incomes and increasing busy lifestyles, and popularity of fast foods. The U.S. and Canada are dominant countries driving the market growth in the region. 

The U.S. dominated the fast food market in 2024, driven by the increasing spending on fast food, increasing demand for quick-service restaurants, growing working population, increasing population of single parents, and dual-income families. In the U.S., there were 5 million people employed in the industry and more than 200,000 fast food establishments in 2023. In addition, there are 83% of households are consuming weekly, and 37% of adults are consuming fast foods on a daily basis in 2025, which is further expected to accelerate the demand for the global market in the U.S. 

Asia Pacific Fast Food Market Trends 

Asia Pacific is expected to grow fastest during the forecast period. The market growth in the region is driven by rapid urbanization and industrialization, increasing disposable incomes, a growing working population, increasing demand for fast foods, and changing consumer preferences towards plant-based and vegan food products. China, India, Japan, and South Korea are the fastest growing countries, propelling the market growth. 

India is Expected to Grow Fastest During the Forecast Period.

The market growth in the country is driven by the increasing consumer preference towards organic and clean-label food products, increasing working population, increasing demand for on-the-go snacks and ready-to-eat food, and increasing presence of quick-service restaurants. There are about 59.6% of adults consuming fast food, driven by variety and taste. India has traditionally valued home-cooked meals with diverse cultures across states and regions. The Indian market is increasing at a rapid rate and growing by 40% per year.

Segmental Insights

Product Insights 

Why did the Burgers and Sandwiches Segment Held the Largest Revenue in the Fast Food Market in 2024? 

The burgers and sandwiches segment dominated the market in 2024. The segment growth in the global market is attributed to the increasing demand for street food, busy lifestyles, increasing consumer preference towards organic and clean-label food products, and a growing working population. Burgers and sandwiches are rapidly consumed in fast food in India. One of the major food delivery brands, Swiggy, ordered 40 million burgers in 2024. Consumers from Chandigarh ordered 1146 burgers from Swiggy. Bangalore is becoming the Burger Capital of India, with orders over 6 million burgers.

The Pizza Segment is Expected to Grow Fastest During the Forecast Period. 

The segment growth in the global fast food market is driven by the increasing consumer trend towards parties and celebrations, the growing number of double-income population, rising urbanization, and working population, and increasing demand for ready-to-bake and frozen pizza. Due to its easy-to-serve, affordable, and convenient qualities, pizza is a favorite and popular on-the-go option for get-togethers and last-minute meals. About 11% of pizza is consumed in the U.S., which may accelerate the demand for pizza in the global market. 

Service Insights 

What Factors Help Quick-Service Restaurants (QSRs) Segment to Grow in 2024? 

The Quick-Service Restaurants (QSRs) segment dominated the fast food market in 2024. The segment growth in the market is propelled by the increasing support from delivery applications, increasing consumer spending on cafes, restaurants, and hotels, and increasing demand for quick restaurant services and fast-casual restaurants. Various consumers, especially adults, are choosing quick service restaurants such as McDonald's, Taco Bell, Subway, Starbucks, Burger King, Pizza Hut, Domino's, and others, which helps to enhance consumer experience and satisfaction.

The Full-Service Fast Food Segment is Expected to Grow Fastest During the Forecast Period. 

The full-service fast food restaurants that serve customized and personalized meals in a short period of time. By using prepared food or standardized ingredients, these services can adopt quick and low-cost meals. In addition, increasing kiosk integration and digital ordering, expansion of suburban and urban areas, increasing consumer awareness towards health and wellness, increasing Gen Z and millennials' trend towards customization and experience, and increasing demand for speed and quality are further expected to drive the segment growth.

Cuisine Insights 

How American Cuisine Segment Dominates Fast Food Market Revenue in 2024? 

The American cuisine segment dominated the fast food market in 2024. American cuisine especially includes fries and hamburgers. American food culture continues to evolve and derives from cuisines from around the globe. American food culture often combines food from different ethnicities, regions, and countries with a wide variety of cuisines to make unique dishes. In addition, one of the best parts of American cuisine is that consumers can always find some reminder of home via food, which is expected to drive the segment growth. 

The Asian (Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Indian) Segment is Expected to Grow Fastest During the Forecast Period. 

Asian cuisine encompasses several culinary dishes and traditions from various parts of Asia. The most popular specialties in Asia countries' restaurants across the globe are foods traditionally originating from various countries, such as India, Thailand, Korea, Japan, and China. Due to its very good and authentic taste, restaurants are open which are inspired by Asian cuisine. With an emphasis on plant-based and vegetable protein sources, most Asian specialties include enough meat, which may reduce the risk of various diseases and maintain a healthy body, which further accelerates the demand for Asia cuisine.

Category Insights 

Why did the Non-Vegetarian Segment Held the Largest Fast Food Market Revenue in 2024? 

The non-vegetarian segment dominated the fast food market in 2024. The segment growth in the global market is attributed to the increasing demand for meat and meat products, growing non-vegetarian population, and increasing demand for meat-based products, such as fried meats, grilled meats, kebabs, and chicken burgers. About 90% of people eat non-vegetarian burgers across the globe. Sales of meat-based meatballs, burgers, and wings have been rising rapidly over the last few years, which may increase the demand for non-vegetarian fast foods across the globe. 

The vegetarian segment is expected to grow fastest during the forecast period. The segment growth in the market is propelled by the increasing consumer preference towards clean-label, organic, and natural fast food products, increasing consumer awareness towards health and wellness

Distribution Channel Insights

How do Takeaway/Drive-Thru Segment Dominates the Fast Food Market Revenue in 2024? 

The takeaway/drive-thru segment dominated the fast food market in 2024. The segment growth in the global market is driven by various benefits such as flexibility in location, lower overhead costs, increased sales, faster service, and convenience for customers. These drive-thru businesses are designed to offer fast service. Without finding parking spaces and having to wait in lines, consumers can place their orders quickly and receive their purchases, which may drive the segment's growth. 

The Delivery Segment is Expected to Grow Fastest During the Forecast Period. 

The segment growth in the market is attributed to the growing inclination towards online shopping, increasing demand for food delivery apps, and growing e-commerce platforms. In addition, the average restaurant is currently doing about 22% of its business via online delivery services, according to the 2025 State of Restaurants Report. From delivery and online orders versus dine-in orders, restaurants see a 20% increase in check sizes. Delivery can help restaurants reach out to new consumers outside of the locals, regulars, and other customers.

Recent Developments in the Fast Food Market

Mission Barns

  • Announcements: In April 2025, Mission Barns announced the launch of first products in the U.S. from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For sustainable food system, company is focusing on creating lab-grown meat. The aim behind this launch was to maintain its cell-cultivated pork fat. (Source: Food & Drink International)

Good Flippin

  • In July 2025, one of India’s most loved and fastest-growing QSR brands, Good Flippin’ Burgers launched a limited-edition menu, the Korean Krossover in the collaboration with Netflix India. (Source: Passionate in Marketing)

Fast Food Market Leading Companies

Fast Food Market Companies

Segments Covered in the Report

By Product Type

  • Burgers & Sandwiches 
  • Pizza
  • Fried Chicken
  • Asian/Latin American Cuisine
  • Bakery & Café Products
  • Seafood & Others

By Service Type

  • Quick-Service Restaurants (QSRs) 
  • Takeaway & Drive-Thru 
  • Full-Service Fast Food

By Cuisine Type

  • American 
  • Italian: 
  • Asian (Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Indian) 
  • Mexican & Latin American

By Category

  • Non-Vegetarian 
  • Vegetarian & Vegan 

By Distribution Channel

  • Dine-In
  • Delivery 
  • Takeaway/Drive-Thru 

By Region

  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)
  • Latin America
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  • Report Covered: [Revenue + Volume]
  • Historical Year: 2021-2023
  • Base Year: 2024
  • Estimated Years: 2025-2034

Meet the Team

Vidyesh Swar, Senior Research Analyst at Towards Food & Beverages, specializes in market research, focusing on supply-demand evaluation, pricing analysis, alternative proteins, plant-based foods, and sustainable food technologies within the industry.

Learn more about Vidyesh Swar

Aditi Shivarkar, with 14+ years in Food and Beverages market research, specializes in food, beverage, and eco-friendly packaging. She ensures accurate, actionable insights, driving Towards FnB's excellence in industry trends and sustainability.

Learn more about Aditi Shivarkar

Related Insights

FAQ's

The global fast food market was valued at USD 822.68 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 1,340.06 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 5%. The growth is driven by rising consumer demand for convenience and increasing adoption of quick-service restaurant models globally.

Key trends include the rise of plant-based fast food, digital ordering and personalization, and the growing popularity of quick-service formats. Consumers are also favoring clean-label and organic options, especially in emerging economies like India and Southeast Asia.

Technology is enhancing customer experience through AI-driven personalization, app-based ordering, automated kitchens, and data analytics. These innovations enable faster service, improve operational efficiency, and boost customer loyalty via rewards and targeted marketing.

Rising health consciousness, regulatory scrutiny over high-calorie and processed foods, and sustainability concerns are significant challenges. Brands must balance convenience and flavor with healthier, eco-friendly offerings to remain competitive.

Asia Pacific is poised for the fastest growth through 2034, driven by increasing urbanization, a large working-class population, and rising demand for affordable and on-the-go meals in countries like India, China, and Indonesia.

The sector offers high investment potential due to its resilience, strong brand loyalty, and growth in delivery, plant-based, and tech-driven formats. Strategic expansion into emerging markets and digital transformation will unlock new revenue streams.

QSRs dominate the market by offering affordable, speedy, and standardized meals. Their integration with delivery apps and expansion into suburban and Tier 2–3 cities globally positions them as a key growth engine through 2034.

The market is highly competitive, led by giants like McDonald\'s, Yum! Brands, Domino’s, and Starbucks. Regional players and innovative startups are intensifying competition by offering localized menus, tech-enabled service models, and limited-edition collaborations.