The average American dines at fast food and local restaurants more than any other type. The consumption of fast food/fast casual restaurants is highly influenced by income, age, and race. According to our data, Black and Hispanic/Latinx consumers are likelier to choose fast food/quick service restaurants as their go-to dining option.
Fast food trailed locally-owned restaurants until recently. Those saying that fast food is the type of food they eat most has increased yearly since the start of the pandemic.
Recent trends suggest a change in consumer expectations regarding fast-food purchases. While healthiness was emphasized from 2015 to 2020, the focus has now shifted to value. This shift may be attributed to concerns regarding inflation and a potential recession.
Despite technological advances, drive-thru and in-store cashiers are still preferred ordering methods.
While most adults order fast food for convenience and speed, young people are likelier than others to use fast food as a treat or socialize.
Consumers noticed significant price increases in all the top fast-food restaurant chains over the past three months. This was particularly true for McDoand’s, where 7 out of ten noticed increases.
Despite price increases, consumer spending at QSRs is predicted to remain mostly stable through November, with a slight (2% year-over-year) dip in spending expected around June.
Chick-fil-A is the most loved fast-food restaurant among the general population and weekly+ fast-food consumers. Whereas Jersey Mikes, Five Guys, and Firehouse Subs are the most loved fast-casual restaurants.
Consumers looking for a good burger chose Wendy’s, Burger King, and McDonald’s. Purchase the report to find the top quick-service restaurant choices for chicken and pizza!
When trying new food and beverages, the southeast region seems more open-minded, while the great plains tend to stick to what they are familiar with.
Sustainability is on consumers’ minds, and over time more consumers are becoming interested in local ingredients. A third of consumers are open to plant-based meat at fast food restaurants.