Top 10 Largest Fast Food Chains In The World

The world of fast food is a global phenomenon that has not only transformed the way we eat but also impacted the very fabric of our modern lives. With the tantalizing aroma of sizzling burgers, the satisfying crunch of golden french fries, and the convenience of quick service, fast food chains have become an integral part of the culinary landscape worldwide.

From bustling metropolises to remote corners of the globe, these ubiquitous restaurants cater to diverse palates and cultures, providing a taste of familiarity in an ever-expanding and interconnected world.

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Here we would like to share with you the top 10 largest fast-food chains in the world based on the total number of locations worldwide.

10. Hunt Brothers Pizza (9000+)

Founded in 1991, Hunt Brothers Pizza has managed to establish itself as a prominent chain, even though it might not be as universally recognized as some of the larger fast-food giants like McDonald's or KFC. This fast-food chain boasts more than 9,000 locations in 32 states.

Hunt Brothers Pizza had humble beginnings in Nashville, Tennessee, where it was founded by the Hunt family. What started as a small, family-owned business gradually expanded into a significant player in the fast food market. 

Unlike many other fast food chains, Hunt Brothers Pizza doesn't rely on standalone restaurants. Instead, they've adopted a unique business model that primarily involves partnerships with convenience stores and gas stations. This model has allowed them to infiltrate rural and remote areas where access to traditional fast food might be limited.

They offer a range of pizza styles, including classic pepperoni, cheese, and specialty pizzas like Buffalo chicken and BBQ chicken. This variety caters to a broad range of customer tastes, making it a favorite choice for people looking for a quick and tasty pizza fix.

9. Krispy Kreme (11,700+)

Krispy Kreme, known for its delectable and iconic glazed donuts, is a renowned fast-food chain that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. Krispy Kreme's journey began in 1937 when it was founded in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, by Vernon Rudolph. 

What started as a small bakery selling yeast-raised donuts quickly gained popularity for its signature "Original Glazed" donut. The company's growth was steady, and over the years, it expanded into various regions within the United States and, later, internationally.

Krispy Kreme has employed innovative marketing strategies to promote its brand and products. The famous "Hot Now" sign, which lights up when a fresh batch of donuts is ready, creates a sense of urgency and excitement among customers.

With over 11,700 locations worldwide, Krispy Kreme donuts can be obtained pretty much anywhere around the globe.

8. Dunkin' (12,900)

Dunkin' Donuts LLC, doing business as Dunkin' since 2019 is a prominent and widely recognized fast-food chain that has become a breakfast and coffee destination for millions across the United States and beyond.

Dunkin' was founded in 1950 by William Rosenberg in Quincy, Massachusetts. Its early focus was primarily on serving coffee and donuts, but it quickly expanded to include a variety of breakfast items and beverages. Over the years, Dunkin' has grown to become one of the largest coffee and baked goods chains in the world.

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With more than 12,900 locations across the globe, Dunkin' has capitalized on the demand for convenience by offering a significant number of drive-through locations. This helps cater to customers looking for a quick, on-the-go breakfast or coffee fix.

7. Domino's (18,848)

Specializing in pizza delivery and takeout, Domino's has become synonymous with the convenience of getting a hot, delicious pizza delivered to your doorstep. Domino's was founded in 1960 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, by Tom Monaghan and James Monaghan. Initially, the company was called "Domino's Pizza, Inc." and started as a small, local pizzeria. 

The concept of speedy pizza delivery was revolutionary at the time, and it played a pivotal role in the brand's early success. They pioneered the use of delivery heat bags to keep pizzas hot and fresh during transit. Additionally, they introduced the iconic "30 minutes or less" guarantee in the past, although it was later discontinued due to safety concerns.

Domino's has a robust international presence, with 18,381 stores in over 90 countries. Their commitment to adapting their menu to local tastes and preferences has made them successful in diverse cultural and culinary landscapes.

6. Pizza Hut (19,034)

Pizza Hut was founded in 1958 in Wichita, Kansas, by two college students, Dan and Frank Carney. The brand's early success can be attributed to its unique concept: offering restaurant-quality pizza for both dine-in and delivery.

Pizza Hut is widely recognized for its pan pizzas, characterized by their thick, fluffy crust and generous toppings. This signature creation has been a cornerstone of the brand's success. However, Pizza Hut offers much more than just pizza. 

Their menu includes a diverse array of pasta dishes, chicken wings, sandwiches, appetizers, and an ever-evolving lineup of specialty pizzas. Pizza Hut's global footprint extends to more than 19,000 locations in over 100 countries, with franchises and company-owned stores serving diverse communities worldwide.

5. Burger King (19,789)

Burger King, often abbreviated as BK, is a global fast-food chain renowned for its flame-grilled burgers and distinctive "Have it your way" approach to customization. Burger King was founded in 1954 by James McLamore and David Edgerton in Miami, Florida. 

The restaurant's early success was attributed to its flame-grilled cooking method, which gave its burgers a unique flavor and set it apart from competitors. Burger King's most iconic burger is the Whopper, a flame-grilled masterpiece that has been a mainstay of its menu since the chain's inception.

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Burger King has a strong international presence, with 19,789 restaurants around the world.

4. KFC (27,700)

Kentucky Fried Chicken, more commonly known as KFC, is one of the world's most recognizable and widely loved fast-food chains. Specializing in fried chicken and a range of mouthwatering side dishes, KFC has garnered a dedicated following that stretches across the globe.

KFC's story began in 1930 when Harland Sanders, known as "Colonel Sanders," started selling his famous fried chicken from a roadside restaurant in Corbin, Kentucky. The Colonel's secret blend of 11 herbs and spices quickly became legendary, and his restaurant gained popularity. 

In 1952, Sanders franchised his recipe, leading to the birth of Kentucky Fried Chicken. KFC expanded rapidly, not only across the United States but also internationally. KFC currently has well over 27,000 store locations worldwide.

3. Starbucks (35,711)

Starbucks, often recognized by its iconic mermaid logo, is not only a global coffeehouse chain but also a major player in the fast-food industry. Starbucks was founded in 1971 in Seattle, Washington, by three partners - Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker. 

Initially, it was a single store that primarily sold high-quality coffee beans and equipment. However, over time, Starbucks evolved into a multi-billion-dollar company with a worldwide presence.

They source and roast their own coffee beans, ensuring quality and consistency across their menu. This focus on quality has made Starbucks a symbol of the "third-wave coffee" movement, emphasizing the art and craftsmanship of coffee making.

Starbucks has a massive global presence, with thousands of locations in over 80 countries. The brand adapts its menu to cater to local tastes, allowing customers worldwide to enjoy a diverse selection of beverages and food items.

2. Subway (37,000)

Subway, the world's largest fast-food chain by the number of locations, is known for its signature footlong and six-inch submarine sandwiches, more commonly known as "subs" or "subs." Founded in 1965, Subway has grown into a global franchise that spans across numerous countries.

Subway was founded by Fred DeLuca and Dr. Peter Buck in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The story of Subway's origin is quite unique; Dr. Buck provided the initial investment of $1,000 to DeLuca to start a sub sandwich shop. Since then, it has grown exponentially, thanks to its unique concept of customizable sandwiches, fresh ingredients, and a healthier image.

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Subway boasts an extensive international presence, with around 37,000 locations in over 100 countries.

1. McDonald's (40,275)

McDonald's often referred to as the "Golden Arches," is the largest fast food chain in the world with roughly 40,275 locations worldwide. Founded in 1940 by Richard and Maurice McDonald in San Bernardino, California, and later franchised by Ray Kroc, McDonald's has become one of the most recognizable and influential brands out there.

Under Kroc's leadership, McDonald's adopted a franchise model, which allowed it to grow exponentially and rapidly expand across the United States and, eventually, the world. McDonald's is renowned for its iconic menu items, such as the Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, Chicken McNuggets, and the Filet-O-Fish. 

Equally famous are the world-famous French fries and the classic Egg McMuffin, which revolutionized breakfast on the go.

Source:

• Statista

Also read: Top 7 Oldest Fast Food Chains In The World