Cost of food in the United States increased 3.10 percent in September of 2025 over the same month in the previous year. This dataset provides the latest reported value for - United States Food Inflation - plus previous releases, historical high and low, short-term forecast and long-term prediction, economic calendar, survey consensus and news.

Graph and download economic data for Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Food in U.S. City Average (CPIUFDNS) from Jan 1913 to Sep 2025 about food, urban, consumer, CPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

Cost of food in Canada increased 3.40 percent in October of 2025 over the same month in the previous year. This dataset provides the latest reported value for - Canada Food Inflation - plus previous releases, historical high and low, short-term forecast and long-term prediction, economic calendar, survey consensus and news.

Cooks working in fast food restaurants in the United States had a median hourly wage of 14.50 U.S. dollars as of May 2024. Meanwhile, 10 percent of fast food cooks earned less than 10.76 U.S. dollars per hour.

In 2023, the fast food chain McDonald's generated over 1.8 billion British pounds in turnover in the United Kingdom. This represented an increase of over nine percent from the previous year. Meanwhile, Domino's Pizza's revenue in the UK and Ireland stood at 624.5 million British pounds in the same year.

Graph and download economic data for Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Food Away from Home in U.S. City Average (CUUR0000SEFV) from Jan 1953 to Sep 2025 about urban, food, consumer, CPI, housing, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

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US Fast Casual Restaurants Market Size 2025-2029

The US fast casual restaurants market size is valued to increase USD 84.5 billion, at a CAGR of 13.7% from 2024 to 2029. Demand for innovation and customization in food menus will drive the US fast casual restaurants market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

By Channel - Dine-in segment was valued at USD 48.90 billion in 2022
By Application - Franchised segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2022

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 148.40 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD 84.50 billion
CAGR from 2024 to 2029 : 13.7%

Market Summary

The Fast Casual Restaurants Market in the US continues to expand, driven by consumer preferences for fresh, customizable meal options. According to recent data, the market is projected to reach a value of USD115.5 billion by 2026, growing at a steady pace. This growth is fueled by the demand for innovation and personalization in food menus, with fast casual restaurants offering a middle ground between the limited offerings of quick-service establishments and the higher prices and longer wait times of full-service restaurants. In response to this trend, fast casual chains have been increasingly focusing on digitalization, streamlining ordering processes and enhancing the customer experience through mobile apps and contactless payment options.
However, this market segment faces intense competition from quick-service restaurants, which have also been adopting similar strategies to cater to evolving consumer preferences. As a result, fast casual restaurants must continue to differentiate themselves through unique menu offerings, efficient operations, and exceptional customer service to maintain their market share. Despite these challenges, the future of the fast casual market in the US remains promising, with opportunities for growth in both urban and suburban areas and the potential to expand beyond traditional brick-and-mortar locations through delivery and catering services.

What will be the Size of the US Fast Casual Restaurants Market during the forecast period?

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How is the Fast Casual Restaurants in US Market Segmented and what are the key trends of market segmentation?

The fast casual restaurants in US industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Channel

  Dine-in
  Takeaway


Application

  Franchised
  Standalone


Food Type

  Burger/Sandwich
  Pizza/Pasta
  Asian
  Latin American
  Chicken
  Others


Target Audience

  Millennials
  Working Professionals
  Families


Distribution Channel Specificity

  Specialty Chains
  Online Platforms
  Retail Foodservice


Geography

  North America

    US

By Channel Insights

The dine-in segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Fast casual restaurants in the US, a hybrid of fast food and casual dining, have been continuously evolving since their inception, offering better quality meals with less frozen or processed ingredients. Operational efficiency improvements, such as revenue management techniques and table management systems, have been key to their success. Cost control strategies, including digital menu boards, inventory management software, and marketing automation tools, help maintain profitability. Third-party delivery services and brand positioning strategies cater to the growing demand for convenience. Sustainability initiatives, like food waste reduction and customer loyalty programs, enhance the dining experience and foster long-term relationships.

Kitchen display systems, food safety management, energy efficiency measures, and wait time optimization ensure consistent quality and customer satisfaction. Sales forecasting models, employee retention strategies, labor scheduling software, and restaurant management systems facilitate efficient operations. Data analytics dashboards, social media marketing, online reputation management, and order fulfillment process enhance customer engagement. Peak hour management, online ordering platforms, guest feedback systems, and customer experience metrics provide valuable insights for continuous improvement. Supply chain optimization and employee training programs ensure consistency and quality in menu offerings. According to a recent report, fast casual restaurants account for over 5% of total US foodservice sales.

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The Dine-in segment was valued at USD 48.90 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

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Market Dynamics

Our researchers analyzed the data with 2024 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and

The so-called Big Mac index is regarded as an indicator for the purchasing power of an economy. The average price for a Big Mac burger in Mexico was estimated at 4.6 U.S. dollars in January 2025. Due to the high increases during the last few years, the Big Mac burger price became one of the highest in Latin America. Big Mac Index The Bic Mac index has been published annually by The Economist since 1986 and is rated as a simplified indicator of a country’s individual purchasing power. As many countries have different currencies, the standardized Big Mac prices are calculated by converting the average national Big Mac prices with the latest exchange rate to U.S. dollars.The Big Mac, as the top-selling McDonald’s burger, is used for comparison because it is available in almost every country and manufactured in a standardized size, composition and quality. McDonald’s is a worldwide operating fast food restaurant chain with headquarters in Oak Brook, Illinois. In Latin America, McDonald's largest franchisee is Arcos Dorados Holdings, with headquarters in Montevideo, Uruguay. Power Purchasing Parity This conversion endeavor seeks to level the purchasing power disparities among nations by neutralizing price discrepancies. Notably, in Mexico, the Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) has demonstrated a consistent upward trajectory, yielding positive repercussions on the minimum wage for the labor force. This, in turn, has triggered a favorable effect on the affordability of the essential food basket. Furthermore, this upswing has propelled five major Mexican cities into the upper positions of PPP rankings within Latin America. Consequently, Mexico now stands as the 15th largest global economy, a status achieved despite a slight, yet steady, decline in its share of the global GDP, which is adjusted according to PPP metrics.

Over the five years through 2025, restaurant and takeaway revenue is expected to rise at a compound annual rate of 3.7%. France’s culinary heritage is internationally renowned. However, the industry is navigating a shift. Despite numerous Michelin-starred restaurants indicating the quality of France’s food scene, economic headwinds like climbing inflation have dampened consumer spending in recent years, keeping people from dining out as frequently. In response, restaurants are leaning into cost-friendly options like prix fixe menus and casual dining. Fast-food chains, are thriving, riding the wave of demand for affordability and convenience, while bistronomy – where restaurants merge casual formats and gourmet perks – is performing well by targeting value seekers. In 2025, revenue is slated to grow by 3.7% to €58.2 billion. France’s multicultural population is driving demand for diverse flavours. Cities like Paris buzz with international eateries, driven by countries like Peru and Thailand. At the same time, health consciousness and sustainability are reshaping dining habits, driving a surge in demand for plant-based offerings, ethical sourcing and transparent supply chains to capture demand. Profit is expected to have remained steady over the past four years thanks to price adjustments strategies, with rising ingredient costs encouraging restaurants to regularly adjust menu prices to protect their returns. Over the five years through 2030, revenue is expected to swell at a compound annual rate of 1.2% to €61.7 billion. Multicultural flavours will continue to take centre-stage, reflecting France’s multicultural population, as well as appealing to a global audience. Health and environmental consciousness will continue to flourish. As diners prioritise well-being, restaurants will spotlight functional ingredients and cater to niches like veganism and eco-gastronomy, . Casual dining should expand as diners become more financially cautious, presenting growth opportunities for versatile eateries. Digitalisation will also continue to redefine dining experiences, with tools like self-service kiosks, streamlining operations, reducing costs and enhancing customer satisfaction. Meanwhile, it’s a tough choice deciding where to set up base. While Paris dazzles, regions like Vale de Loire, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur and Hauts-de-France offer rich opportunities with growing tourist numbers and vibrant local flavours.

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Industry: Food Manufacturing (PCU311311) from Dec 1984 to Sep 2025 about food, manufacturing, PPI, industry, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

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Fast Casual Restaurants Market Size 2025-2029

The fast casual restaurants market size is forecast to increase by USD 181.6 billion, at a CAGR of 16.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is characterized by a significant demand for innovation and customization in food menus, driven by consumers' evolving preferences and expectations. This trend is further fueled by the increasing popularity of chef-driven fast casual restaurant franchises, which offer unique culinary experiences , fresh food and higher quality ingredients. However, this market faces intense competition from quick-service restaurants, which continue to dominate the food industry with their affordability and convenience.
Navigating this competitive landscape requires strategic planning and a focus on differentiating offerings through unique menu items, efficient operations, and exceptional customer service. Companies that successfully balance affordability, quality, and innovation are well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for customized dining experiences in the fast casual restaurant sector.

What will be the Size of the Fast Casual Restaurants Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The fast casual restaurant market continues to evolve, with dynamic market dynamics shaping various sectors. Quick service restaurants (QSRs) are increasingly integrating mobile ordering and recipe management systems for operational efficiency and customer convenience. Online ordering and delivery services are gaining popularity, driving sales growth and brand awareness. Seasonal menus cater to customer preferences, while operational efficiency is enhanced through inventory management and kitchen equipment. Customer retention is a key focus, with employee training, customer service, and community engagement essential for fostering loyalty. Franchise models offer expansion opportunities, while health inspections ensure hygiene standards. Table service and counter service options cater to diverse customer needs.

Food cost control, allergen management, and menu engineering are crucial for maintaining profitability. Sales forecasting and price optimization help manage peak demand. Social media marketing and online reputation management are essential for effective brand management. Restaurant design, labor management, and supply chain management are ongoing concerns. Dietary restrictions and menu customization cater to diverse customer needs. Technology adoption, from point-of-sale systems to data analytics, is transforming the industry. Limited service restaurants, casual dining, and full service restaurants each face unique challenges and opportunities. The fast casual dining sector continues to unfold, with ongoing patterns and applications across various aspects of the industry.

How is this Fast Casual Restaurants Industry segmented?

The fast casual restaurants industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  North American cuisine
  Italian
  Mexican
  Others


Channel

  Dine-in
  Takeaway


Type

  Franchised
  Standalone


End-User

  Health-Conscious
  Family-Oriented
  Young Professionals


Geography

  North America

    US


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    Australia
    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The north american cuisine segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Fast casual dining is a thriving sector in the US market, with millions of consumers, particularly millennials, opting for quick, fresh, and convenient meal options daily. According to industry estimates, approximately one-third of children and teenagers in the US, Canada, and select Asian and European countries consume sandwiches, burgers, or similar quick-serve foods daily, contributing significantly to their dietary needs. In response, fast casual restaurants in the US, UK, and Australia have expanded their menus to include healthier options, recognizing the demand for nutritious meals among this demographic. The fast casual dining industry is also leveraging technology to streamline operations and enhance customer experience.

The North American cuisine segment was valued at USD 46.80 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period. Mobile ordering and recipe management systems facilitate efficient food preparation and menu customization, while online ordering, delivery services, and sales forecasting enable restaurants