For over half a century, fast food has dominated the American diet, with families spending 10% of their income on quick, convenient meals. In 2023, the fast food industry reached a staggering $750.45 billion! So you can see why these chains are unstoppable. The following are the 15 highest earning brands in the industry.
Starbucks: $36.48 billion
Who knew three college friends could establish the world’s largest coffee empire? Baldwin, Siegl, and Bowker launched Starbucks as a coffee bean retail store in 1971, and then CEO Schultz transitioned it to a full-fledged coffee shop in 1987. Fast-forward to 2024, it generates an estimated $36.48 billion yearly from sales in 86 countries.
McDonald’s: $25.49 billion
Have you ever bought the world-famous McD fries? If yes, your income has contributed to McDonald’s $25.49 billion fiscal year gains. But it’s not just you—69 million people from 100 countries across the globe are daily patrons of this brand. And with over 80 years’ experience on their resume, we’re not surprised at their success.
Chick-fil-A: $21.6 billion
Although Chick-fil-A may only have 3,059 branches, it’s still an American favorite, second only to McDonald’s and Starbucks. Since 1946, the company has delivered high-quality chicken sandwiches. Despite facing international backlash due to its controversial stance on gay marriage, Chick-fil-A has maintained an impressive twelve-month yield of $21.6 billion.
Subway: $16.1 billion
Subway’s wraps and sandwiches, packed with fresh toppings, are a global favorite in over 100 countries. Starbucks might top this list but Subway is the world’s largest restaurant operator, with a reported $16.1 billion annual income. Its position would have been even stronger if not for the closure of 6,000 U.S. stores between 2015 and 2021.
Chipotle Mexican Grill: $10.66 billion
Compared to McDonald’s or Subway, Chipotle Mexican Grill has only 3,500 outlets worldwide and offers a customizable menu of tacos, burritos, and salads. The fast-food chain launched in 1993, making it a young competitor. However, it has mastered its craft and comes fifth with an estimated $10.66 billion in yearly earnings.
Texas Roadhouse: $4.78 billion
As of May 2024, Texas Roadhouse reported an impressive revenue of $4.78 billion and a net income of $331.70 million. It opened its doors in 1993 and quickly became a beloved casual dining destination for mouthwatering steaks. But the big shocker is that it only has 655 locations in 49 U.S. states and 11 countries worldwide.
Domino’s Pizza: $4.61 billion
Founded in 1960, this franchise was initially a tiny pizza shop called “DomiNicks” which the Monaghan brothers purchased for $1400. It wasn’t until 1965 that the name “Domino’s Pizza” clicked. It scaled to become the world’s largest pizza corporation, with over 20,000 branches. Thanks to this global love of pizza, the brand amasses $4.61 billion per annum.
Tim Hortons: $3.972 billion
This Canadian multinational has made significant strides in the U.S. market thanks to its delectable pairing of coffee and doughnuts. Established in 1964 by hockey legend Tim Horton, the chain has grown to over 5,700 locations worldwide. Its stronghold in Canada gives it a unique edge, culminating in approximately $3.972 billion in annual revenue.
Taco Bell: $2.64 billion
Known for its budget-friendly prices, Taco Bell is a quick service restaurant brand specializing in Mexican menu items like tacos and burritos. Since 1962, it has relied on innovative recipes like the vegan crunch wrap supreme to attract over two billion customers. And if its $2.64 billion annual revenue is anything to go by, this strategy works.
KFC: $2.83 billion
“It’s finger-licking good” is all we can say about the KFC fried chicken recipe, considering it’s been a secret since 1930. Still, the $2.83 billion franchise consistently sells flavorful dishes like chicken tenders and chicken filet sandwiches in 30,000 stores worldwide. Their influence also spans 150 countries and isn’t dwindling anytime soon.
Wendy’s: $2.2 billion
Wendy’s, home of the “Fresh, Never Frozen” beef patty, has been a favorite since 1969. As of 2024, Wendy’s has an estimated income of $2.2 billion, maintaining its position as one of America’s most recognizable fast food chains. Its commitment to serving fresh ingredients in over 7,000 outlets keeps it relevant in the competitive market.
Papa John’s: $2.12 billion
Papa John’s has secured its position as the third-largest quick-service pizza company in the world, thanks to its quality menu items like chicken and veggie pizza. Remarkably, the brand achieved this success with only 5,500 locations across 49 countries. In 2024, its projected revenue is an impressive $2.12 billion.
Krispy Kreme: $1.74 billion
Few can resist a warm Krispy Kreme doughnut, especially when lit up with the “Hot Now” sign. Founded in 1937, the Krispy Kreme doughnut company has become a global phenomenon, with stores in 35 countries. It’s known for its signature Original Glazed doughnuts and pulls in a steady stream of $1.74 billion.
Dunkin’ Donuts: $1.4 billion
Dunkin’ Donuts, now simply “Dunkin’,” is synonymous with coffee and baked goods in the U.S. With more than 12,500 outlets globally, this Massachusetts-based franchise has been serving coffee and doughnuts since 1950. Its expansion into beverages has been particularly lucrative, propelling Dunkin’ to $1.4 billion per annum returns.
Burger King: $1.30 billion
Pizza and fries are great, but a hamburger, better yet a whopper, is an American delicacy. In 1957, Burger King released its famous whopper, a large hamburger that set competing fast food brands on a delicious quest to release a better rival. Six decades later, the whopper reigns supreme, contributing to Burger King’s $1.30 billion earnings.
