Introduction
In 2025, the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry in the United States continues to thrive, with several major players dominating the market. These companies have established themselves as leaders in the fast-food industry, offering a wide range of menu options and convenient service to meet the needs of busy consumers. In this report, we will take a closer look at the top 10 QSR companies in the United States in 2025, analyzing their financial performance, market share, and key strategies for success.
1. McDonald’s Corporation
Financial Data
McDonald’s Corporation remains the largest QSR company in the United States, with a significant market share and strong financial performance. In 2025, the company reported annual revenue of over $40 billion, with net income exceeding $5 billion. Despite facing competition from other fast-food chains, McDonald’s continues to expand its global footprint and innovate its menu offerings to attract customers.
Industry Insights
McDonald’s success can be attributed to its iconic brand, efficient operations, and focus on customer experience. The company’s McCafe line of coffee beverages and all-day breakfast menu have been particularly popular with consumers, driving sales and foot traffic to its restaurants.
2. Starbucks Corporation
Financial Data
Starbucks Corporation is a major player in the QSR industry, known for its premium coffee offerings and cozy cafe atmosphere. In 2025, the company reported annual revenue of over $25 billion, with net income surpassing $3 billion. Starbucks continues to expand its presence globally, opening new stores in key markets and introducing innovative beverages to attract customers.
Industry Insights
Starbucks’ success lies in its strong brand identity, loyal customer base, and commitment to sustainability. The company’s focus on ethically sourced coffee beans and eco-friendly practices has resonated with consumers, driving sales and reinforcing its position as a leader in the coffee industry.
3. Yum! Brands, Inc.
Financial Data
Yum! Brands, Inc. is a multinational QSR company that owns several popular fast-food chains, including KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell. In 2025, the company reported annual revenue of over $20 billion, with net income exceeding $2 billion. Yum! Brands continues to innovate its menu offerings and expand its presence in emerging markets to drive growth and profitability.
Industry Insights
Yum! Brands’ diverse portfolio of brands and global reach have been key drivers of its success. The company’s focus on international expansion and localization of menu items has helped it capture market share in different regions and appeal to a wide range of consumer preferences.
4. Subway
Financial Data
Subway is a popular QSR chain known for its customizable sandwiches and healthy options. In 2025, the company reported annual revenue of over $10 billion, with net income approaching $1 billion. Despite facing challenges in recent years, including store closures and changing consumer preferences, Subway remains a dominant player in the fast-food industry.
Industry Insights
Subway’s success can be attributed to its affordability, customization options, and focus on fresh ingredients. The company’s “Eat Fresh” marketing campaign and commitment to healthier menu choices have resonated with health-conscious consumers, driving sales and loyalty to the brand.
5. Chick-fil-A
Financial Data
Chick-fil-A is a fast-growing QSR chain known for its chicken sandwiches and customer service. In 2025, the company reported annual revenue of over $10 billion, with net income exceeding $1 billion. Chick-fil-A’s unique menu offerings, including its signature chicken sandwich and waffle fries, have been instrumental in its success and popularity with consumers.
Industry Insights
Chick-fil-A’s commitment to quality, service, and community engagement has set it apart from other fast-food chains. The company’s closed on Sundays policy and focus on employee training have helped build a loyal customer base and drive sales growth in a competitive market.
6. Domino’s Pizza, Inc.
Financial Data
Domino’s Pizza, Inc. is a leading QSR chain specializing in pizza delivery and takeout. In 2025, the company reported annual revenue of over $5 billion, with net income surpassing $500 million. Domino’s innovative ordering technology, such as its online and mobile app platforms, has been a key driver of its growth and customer satisfaction.
Industry Insights
Domino’s success can be attributed to its focus on digital innovation, quality ingredients, and efficient delivery service. The company’s “Pizza Tracker” feature and commitment to fast delivery times have resonated with consumers, driving sales and market share in the competitive pizza segment.
7. Wendy’s Company
Financial Data
Wendy’s Company is a well-known QSR chain famous for its square hamburgers and frosty desserts. In 2025, the company reported annual revenue of over $4 billion, with net income exceeding $400 million. Wendy’s has focused on menu innovation and marketing campaigns to attract customers and drive sales growth in a competitive fast-food landscape.
Industry Insights
Wendy’s success lies in its commitment to quality ingredients, unique menu offerings, and nostalgic brand appeal. The company’s “Fresh, Never Frozen” beef and limited-time menu items have been popular with consumers, driving foot traffic and sales to its restaurants.
8. Burger King Corporation
Financial Data
Burger King Corporation is a global QSR chain known for its flame-grilled burgers and Whopper sandwich. In 2025, the company reported annual revenue of over $3 billion, with net income approaching $300 million. Burger King’s focus on value menu items, limited-time promotions, and international expansion has helped drive growth and profitability in a competitive fast-food market.
Industry Insights
Burger King’s success can be attributed to its iconic menu items, innovative marketing campaigns, and global presence. The company’s “Have It Your Way” customization options and partnership with popular brands have resonated with consumers, driving sales and brand loyalty in a crowded QSR landscape.
9. Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc.
Financial Data
Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. is a QSR company known for its coffee, donuts, and breakfast offerings. In 2025, the company reported annual revenue of over $3 billion, with net income exceeding $300 million. Dunkin’ continues to expand its menu options and digital ordering capabilities to attract customers and drive sales growth in a competitive breakfast market.
Industry Insights
Dunkin’s success lies in its focus on breakfast, convenience, and digital innovation. The company’s loyalty program, mobile app, and partnership with popular delivery services have helped it reach new customers and drive sales in a rapidly changing QSR landscape.
10. Panera Bread Company
Financial Data
Panera Bread Company is a popular QSR chain known for its bakery-cafe menu offerings and healthy options. In 2025, the company reported annual revenue of over $2 billion, with net income approaching $200 million. Panera’s focus on quality ingredients, sustainability, and customer experience has been key to its success and growth in a competitive fast-casual market.
Industry Insights
Panera’s success can be attributed to its commitment to clean eating, community engagement, and digital ordering options. The company’s Panera 2.0 initiative, which includes kiosks, mobile ordering, and delivery, has helped it attract new customers and drive sales growth in a competitive QSR landscape.
In conclusion, the top 10 QSR companies in the United States in 2025 continue to dominate the fast-food industry with their innovative menu offerings, marketing strategies, and commitment to customer satisfaction. These companies have demonstrated resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing market, driving growth and profitability through innovation and customer-centric approaches.
