Fast food market set to reach US$868b by 2030

Rising urbanisation and consumer demand drive global sector growth

The global fast-food market is projected to expand from US$658.85b in 2025 to US$868.19b by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7%, a report by Research and Markets revealed.

This surge is driven by urbanisation, rising disposable incomes, and the increasing popularity of quick-service restaurants worldwide.

Consumer interest in plant-based options is a key factor in this expansion. “Driven by health, environmental, and ethical considerations, consumers are turning to legumes, grains, and vegetables as sustainable protein sources,” the report notes, highlighting a 5% increase in global retail sales of plant-based food items in 2024. Fast-food chains are responding with menu diversification, including veggie burgers and meat-free wraps.

Automation and digital innovation are also reshaping the sector. CKE Restaurants Holdings has partnered with Presto Automation, OpenCity, and Valyant AI to implement AI-powered voice ordering at drive-thrus, aiming to improve service speed and accuracy. Burger King, through its acquisition of Carrols Restaurant Group in May 2024, seeks to enhance brand growth under its Reclaim the Flame initiative.

Major players dominating the market include McDonald’s, Restaurant Brands International, Yum! Brands, and Inspire Brands. In 2025, North America holds the largest market share, while Asia-Pacific is expected to become the fastest-growing region, with notable markets in the US, China, Germany, Brazil, and India.

Key trends include app-based delivery expansion, menu customisation, sustainable packaging, and greater focus on nutritional transparency. As digital platforms and consumer preferences continue to evolve, fast-food operators are expected to increasingly integrate technology and plant-based offerings to capture growth opportunities.