11 Key Stats: Quick Service Restaurants Compared

9. Outlet distribution: independent operators hold 57.62% share

Independent quick service outlets accounted for about 57.62% of market share in 2024, while chain outlets continue to expand at an estimated 10.65% CAGR (Mordor Intelligence, 2025). That dual picture shows a fragmented base of many smaller operators alongside accelerating chain growth. Independents often serve strong local demand and can adapt menus quickly, but they typically have less capital for technology and national marketing. Chains gain scale advantages through supply-chain efficiency, centralized tech stacks, and franchising models that accelerate presence in new markets. For community-minded operators, the chance to differentiate is real: local flavor and strong service can retain loyal customers despite chain encroachment. For investors, the split signals both a large total addressable market and the saturation risks in some metro areas. Source: Mordor Intelligence (2025).