In 2024, the European country in which McDonald’s operated and franchised the majority of its establishments was *************************. The United Kingdom accounted for the second largest number of McDonald’s restaurants in 2024 with ***** units.

McDonald’s, the renowned global quick service restaurant chain, has maintained annual growth in its restaurant count for almost two decades, even during the years of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. In 2024, the company operated and franchised ****** restaurants globally, marking a rise from the previous year’s count of ****** establishments.

McDonald's generated a total revenue of ***** billion U.S. dollars in 2024. In that year, when looking at McDonald’s revenue by region, the country that generated the highest portion of revenue was the United States - accounting for ***** billion U.S. dollars. However, internationally operated markets including, but not exclusive to, Australia, France, Canada, and the UK, contributed the largest sum to the McDonald's total revenue in 2024. How did McDonald’s start? McDonald’s was originally founded in 1940 in San Bernardino, California, United States by Richard, and Maurice McDonald. It was eventually turned into a franchise operation and was bought from the McDonald’s brothers in 1955 by businessman Ray Kroc. In 2024, there were over ** thousand conventionally franchised McDonald's restaurants worldwide, which constituted the majority of its ****** establishments across the globe. The burger behemoth earned most of its revenue from McDonald’s franchised restaurants and received ***** billion U.S. dollars through this mode of operation in 2024. Is McDonald’s the largest quick service chain? McDonald’s had the highest brand value of any quick service restaurant company by a large margin in 2024. Not only that, but it also ranked in the top 100 biggest companies in the world in 2024. The biggest player in the market that year was ********** with a total market capitalization amounting to over *** trillion U.S. dollars.

Our source data are from several places. Big Mac prices are from McDonald’s directly and from reporting around the world; exchange rates are from Thomson Reuters; GDP and population data used to calculate the euro area averages are from Eurostat and GDP per person data are from the IMF World Economic Outlook reports.

The Big Mac Index is published by The Economist as an informal way of measuring the purchasing power parity (PPP) between two currencies and provides a test of the extent to which market exchange rates result in goods costing the same in different countries. It "seeks to make exchange-rate theory a bit more digestible."

The Big Mac PPP exchange rate between two countries is obtained by dividing the price of a Big Mac in one country (in its currency) by the price of a Big Mac in another country (in its currency). This value is then compared with the actual exchange rate; if it is lower, then the first currency is under-valued (according to PPP theory) compared with the second, and conversely, if it is higher, then the first currency is over-valued.

Compare countries by seeing how long person has to work for to buy a big mac: https://www.economist.com/news/2020/07/15/the-big-mac-index

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Mac_Index

The global fast-food market, valued at $568.73 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. The increasing prevalence of busy lifestyles and the demand for convenient, affordable meal options significantly contribute to market growth. The rising popularity of diverse cuisines, including Asian-inspired dishes and customizable options, caters to evolving consumer preferences and fuels innovation within the sector. Technological advancements, such as mobile ordering and delivery apps, further enhance accessibility and convenience, driving market expansion. While health concerns and changing dietary habits present some restraints, the industry is actively adapting by offering healthier choices and promoting sustainability initiatives to mitigate these challenges. The market is segmented by food type (rice, noodles, pastries, beverages, and snacks) and service style (takeout and dine-in), reflecting diverse consumer needs and preferences. Key players, including McDonald's, Starbucks, Subway, and numerous regional and international chains, are continuously striving to innovate their menus and enhance their customer experience to maintain their competitive edge in this dynamic market. The geographical distribution of the fast-food market reveals significant regional variations. North America, with its established fast-food culture and high per capita consumption, currently holds a substantial market share. However, the Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to demonstrate significant growth potential driven by rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and increasing adoption of Westernized food habits. Europe and other regions are also expected to contribute to the overall market expansion, although at potentially slower rates compared to the Asia-Pacific region. The competitive landscape is intensely competitive, with established players facing pressure from emerging brands and smaller, specialized fast-food chains. The industry's ongoing evolution underscores the importance of adaptability, innovation, and strategic responses to consumer preferences and emerging trends to succeed in this dynamic and rapidly growing market.

At **** U.S. dollars, Switzerland has the most expensive Big Macs in the world, according to the January 2025 Big Mac index. Concurrently, the cost of a Big Mac was **** dollars in the U.S., and **** U.S. dollars in the Euro area. What is the Big Mac index? The Big Mac index, published by The Economist, is a novel way of measuring whether the market exchange rates for different countries’ currencies are overvalued or undervalued. It does this by measuring each currency against a common standard – the Big Mac hamburger sold by McDonald’s restaurants all over the world. Twice a year the Economist converts the average national price of a Big Mac into U.S. dollars using the exchange rate at that point in time. As a Big Mac is a completely standardized product across the world, the argument goes that it should have the same relative cost in every country. Differences in the cost of a Big Mac expressed as U.S. dollars therefore reflect differences in the purchasing power of each currency. Is the Big Mac index a good measure of purchasing power parity? Purchasing power parity (PPP) is the idea that items should cost the same in different countries, based on the exchange rate at that time. This relationship does not hold in practice. Factors like tax rates, wage regulations, whether components need to be imported, and the level of market competition all contribute to price variations between countries. The Big Mac index does measure this basic point – that one U.S. dollar can buy more in some countries than others. There are more accurate ways to measure differences in PPP though, which convert a larger range of products into their dollar price. Adjusting for PPP can have a massive effect on how we understand a country’s economy. The country with the largest GDP adjusted for PPP is China, but when looking at the unadjusted GDP of different countries, the U.S. has the largest economy.

The global cafe and bar market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.06% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key drivers. The rising disposable incomes in developing economies are leading to increased spending on leisure activities, including dining out at cafes and bars. Furthermore, the burgeoning popularity of specialty coffee and craft cocktails, coupled with a growing preference for unique and experiential dining experiences, is significantly boosting market demand. The increasing prevalence of social media and its influence on consumer behavior also plays a role, with trendy cafes and bars often becoming popular Instagrammable destinations. However, the market faces certain restraints, including fluctuating raw material prices, stringent regulations concerning alcohol sales, and the increasing competition from home-based coffee and cocktail preparation. The market is segmented by service type (bars, cafes, coffee shops) and outlet type (chained outlets, independent outlets). Major players such as Starbucks, McDonald's, and Coca-Cola, along with numerous regional and independent businesses, are shaping market dynamics through innovation, expansion, and brand building. The regional distribution of the market demonstrates significant variations, with North America and Europe currently holding the largest market shares, driven by established consumer preferences and high per capita spending. However, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to show significant growth potential in the coming years due to its expanding middle class and rising urbanization. The segmentation within the cafe and bar market offers further insights into specific trends. The chained outlet segment benefits from economies of scale and brand recognition, providing a stable foundation for market growth. Independent outlets, however, are thriving on their ability to offer unique concepts, personalized service, and a distinctive atmosphere catering to local consumer preferences. Within the service type segment, coffee shops and cafes continue to see substantial growth propelled by evolving tastes and the increasing demand for high-quality coffee and tea. Bars, while experiencing steady growth, are more susceptible to regulatory changes and consumer preferences regarding alcohol consumption. The projected market growth indicates promising opportunities for expansion, particularly in regions with developing economies and increasing consumer spending. Strategic investments in innovative products, superior customer service, and targeted marketing campaigns will be crucial for businesses seeking success in this dynamic and competitive market. Recent developments include: In March 2022, Daniel's Chai Bar, based in Brampton, Canada, announced a new pop-up location at Vaughan Mills near Toronto., In August 2022, Barrio Familia announced that they will launch a completely new world's largest tequila bar in London, the United Kingdom., In October 2021, Masque Restaurant has opened a bar within the restaurant with offers a wide array of alcoholic drinks in Mumbai, India.. Notable trends are: Innovation and Customization in Food Menus Augmented the Market Growth.

The global fried chicken market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for convenient, flavorful, and readily available food options. The market, estimated at $150 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated value exceeding $250 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors, including the rising popularity of fast food, the expanding presence of international fried chicken chains, and the increasing adoption of diverse menu offerings catering to various age groups and dietary preferences (e.g., chicken breast options for health-conscious consumers). The diverse product segments, including chicken cutlets, breasts, wings, and legs, contribute to this market dynamism, allowing for a broad consumer base. Regional variations in consumption patterns are also evident, with North America and Asia-Pacific expected to remain leading markets due to their established fast-food culture and high per capita consumption. However, challenges exist. Rising input costs (meat and oil prices) and increasing health concerns about fried food's impact on consumer wellness may restrain market growth to some extent. Furthermore, intense competition among established chains and emerging players necessitates continuous innovation in product offerings, marketing strategies, and operational efficiency. To mitigate these challenges, businesses are focusing on value-added offerings, healthier alternatives (such as baked or air-fried options), and strategic expansion into new markets. Strategic partnerships, new product development, and efficient supply chains are crucial to maintain competitive advantage within this dynamic market landscape. The increasing adoption of online ordering and delivery services also presents a significant opportunity for growth within this segment.

As of March 2025, New South Wales was home to the highest number of McDonald's locations in Australia, with over *** stores. In comparison, there were only ** McDonald's restaurants in Tasmania that same year. In total, over ***** McDonald's stores were in operation nationwide in 2025. Australia: one of McDonald’s leading international markets Famous for its Big Mac, American quick service restaurant (QSR) chain McDonald’s is by far the most valuable fast food brand worldwide, with an estimated brand value of almost *** billion U.S. dollars. The Australian McDonald’s franchise is one of the largest contributors to McDonald’s total revenue among the company’s internationally operated markets. In 2023, McDonald’s Australia Holdings Pty Ltd generated an annual revenue of around *** million U.S. dollars. Battle of the burger chains McDonald’s and Hungry Jack’s are the most prevalent burger franchises in Australia, with McDonald’s recording the highest brand score index value across Australia’s QSRs in 2024. In terms of locations, McDonald’s boasted the highest number of locations of all burger franchises across Australia in 2025 and had more than double the number of stores compared to Hungry Jack’s. Nonetheless, by a small margin, Australian consumers voted Hungry Jack’s as being better value for money than McDonald’s. Furthermore, the Big Jack was rated higher across all categories than the Big Mac regarding taste, quality of ingredients, and value for money. Popular Australian burger chain Grill’d also keeps its foot in the door of Australia’s burger market due to its extensive variety of burger options and highly-rated dine-in experience. With Wendy’s and Mr. Charlie’s having entered Australia’s fast food market, the battle of the country’s burger chains may become even more intense.

The global take-out coffee market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for convenience, premium coffee experiences outside the home, and the rise of specialty coffee shops and mobile ordering. The market is segmented by application (online and offline sales) and type (whole-bean, ground, instant, and others), reflecting diverse consumer preferences and consumption habits. While precise market sizing data is not provided, we can infer a significant market value based on the presence of major players like Starbucks, McDonald's, and Dunkin' Brands, indicating a multi-billion dollar market. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) suggests consistent expansion, likely fueled by factors like increasing disposable incomes in developing economies and the expanding presence of international coffee chains. The competitive landscape includes both large multinational corporations and smaller, niche players focusing on sustainability and unique coffee blends. Geographic distribution is likely concentrated in North America and Europe, reflecting established coffee cultures and high per capita consumption, but growth opportunities exist in Asia-Pacific and other emerging markets with rising middle classes and changing consumer preferences. The market is expected to continue its growth trajectory over the next decade, driven by ongoing trends such as the increased adoption of sustainable practices within the coffee industry and innovative product offerings catering to health-conscious consumers. The key restraints on market growth may include price fluctuations in coffee beans, concerns regarding environmental sustainability of coffee production, and increasing competition leading to price wars or reduced profit margins. However, ongoing innovation in areas such as single-serve coffee pods, ready-to-drink iced coffee, and plant-based milk alternatives is expected to counteract these challenges and support continued market expansion. The growth of online ordering and delivery platforms also presents substantial opportunities for businesses to enhance reach and convenience for customers. The segmentation of the market into various product types and application channels allows businesses to target specific demographics and consumer preferences, maximizing market share and profitability. Future growth will likely be influenced by evolving consumer trends, economic conditions, and regulatory changes impacting the food and beverage industry.

The size of the Belgium Fast Food Industry market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 4.10% during the forecast period. The Belgium fast food industry represents a dynamic segment within the country's broader food service sector, characterized by a diverse range of offerings and a strong consumer demand for convenience. This industry encompasses quick-service restaurants (QSRs), fast-casual establishments, and drive-thru outlets that provide a variety of meal options, including burgers, fries, sandwiches, and pizza, among others. Belgium's fast food landscape is marked by global chains, such as McDonald’s, Burger King, and KFC, and a growing number of local and regional players that cater to unique tastes and preferences. The sector is also influenced by evolving consumer preferences towards healthier and more sustainable food choices, prompting fast food chains to introduce menu items with lower calorie counts, organic ingredients, and environmentally friendly packaging. In addition to traditional fast food, Belgium's industry is experiencing a rise in gourmet fast food concepts and niche offerings that emphasize quality and innovation. This trend reflects a broader shift towards premiumization within the fast food market, where consumers are willing to pay more for higher-quality ingredients and a superior dining experience. The industry also faces challenges such as regulatory pressures related to health and nutrition, competition from emerging food trends, and the need to adapt to digital transformation, including online ordering and delivery services. Despite these challenges, the Belgium fast food industry remains robust, driven by its ability to adapt to changing consumer demands and its integral role in the country's food culture. Recent developments include: In March 2023, BigChefs launched its first branch in Belgium in Antwerp., In May 2021, with fresh ingredients and a new ad campaign as a marketing strategy, Burger King announced its plans to launch its operations in Belgium.. Key drivers for this market are: Augmented Demand for Vegan Food in Restaurants, Growing Preference for Out-The-Home Consumption. Potential restraints include: Increasing Demand for Ready Meals. Notable trends are: Institutional (Catering) is Projected to Record a Significant Growth due to increasing per capita income..