I’ve got some interesting news for you! Nation’s Restaurant News just released the latest ranking of America’s biggest restaurant chains based on 2024 sales and how many locations they have. This list comes from Technomic’s annual report, which looks at the top 500 chains across the country.
Then, let’s break down the top 15 biggest players in America’s restaurant industry now. Spoiler: McDonald’s is still riding high at 1.
1. McDonald’s—The big boss
At $53.5 billion in revenue and 13,557 restaurants, McDonald’s remains the largest restaurant chain in America. Although sales growth slowed during the year, McDonald’s loyalty program grew 30%—not too shabby! Says the CEO, they’re focusing on value, new menu offerings, and savvy marketing to keep winning.
2. Starbucks — Coffee giant
Starbucks is in second place with $31.5 billion in revenues and just short of 17,000 locations. Coffee lovers, this is your destination, for sure. Starbucks did not move from its position this year.
3. Chick-fil-A — The chicken champion
Chick-fil-A is third, raking in $22.7 billion in revenues from 3,109 restaurants. The world-famous chicken sandwich is a favorite quick-service stop for most.
4. Taco Bell — Fast food fiesta
Taco Bell is fourth with revenue of $16.2 billion and 7,604 units operating. Regardless of whether you’re a taco, burrito, or cheese bite zealot, you’re in the crowd.
5. Wendy’s — Fresh, fast, and familiar
Wendy’s is fifth at $12.6 billion revenue and 5,933 locations. They’re famous for fresh food and square-shaped burgers.
6. ‘Dunkin’—Donuts and more
Dunkin’ (formerly Dunkin’ Donuts) is number six, with sales of $12.5 billion and 9,768 locations. Coffee and breakfast lovers know this chain.
7. Chipotle Mexican Grill — Fast casual favorite
Chipotle ranks seventh, with sales of $11.2 billion and 3,644 locations. It’s renowned for its build-your-own burritos and bowls, and Chipotle keeps winning over loyalists.
8. Burger King — The flame-grilled king
Burger King is eighth, with $11 billion in sales and 6,701 units. Their flame-broiled burgers are classic fast food.
9. Subway — The sandwich giant
Subway comes in at ninth place with $9.5 billion in sales and a whopping 19,502 units. It’s still a giant chain, though it dropped one position.
10. Domino’s — Pizza powerhouse
Domino’s is tenth place, with $9.5 billion and 7,014 restaurants as well. If you are hungry for pizza, Domino’s has you covered.
11. Panda Express — Asian fast casual
Panda Express is at eleventh place with $6.2 billion and operating 2,505 units. The Chinese fast casual food corner is still expanding.
12. Panera Bread — Bakery and cafe
Panera Bread is number twelve with $6.1 billion in revenue and 2,216 restaurants. They are known for fresh bread, soups, and salads.
13. Popeyes — Louisiana-style chicken
Popeyes is number thirteen with $5.7 billion and 3,148 restaurants. Their spicy chicken sandwich was a hit in the last quarter of the year.
14. Pizza Hut — Classic Pizza Chain
Pizza Hut is number fourteen, with $5.6 billion in revenue and 6,557 restaurants. They dropped one place but are still a top choice among many.
15. Texas roadhouse — Casual dining expands
Texas Roadhouse moved up four places to fifteenth with $5.5 billion in sales and 664 units. It’s the largest casual-dining chain in the US — excellent if you love steak and ribs.
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So is your go-to restaurant on this list? If you’re a McDonald’s lover or a Panera Bread fresh food lover, these chains reign supreme in 2024. What’s your go-to spot when you need something quick to eat or a quick dinner?
