New Data Shows QSR Burger Segment Far Surpassing Other Categories in Growth

While burger chains suffered slightly during the pandemic, sales data shows they have bounced back significantly.

With the pandemic and restrictions affecting the hospitality industry, the quick-service restaurant market was no different. QSR burger places experienced an overall dip in sales in 2020, with revenue falling more than 5%.

But recent data from Franchise Times shows that the segment has made up for it and then some, with an 18.3% increase in sales at QDR burger chains in 2021. The market brought in $176 billion last year.

Franchise Times ranks the 500 largest franchise organizations each year based on global sales. Two QDR burger chains are in the top five: McDonald’s (#1) and Burger King (#4). The company also reported on how much brands grew sales: Burger King increased sales by 17%, Whataburger by 14.5%, Carl’s Jr. by 5% and Culver’s by 25.3%.

The spike in sales shows the result of things returning to normal post-pandemic. As dining rooms opened again, burger franchises could serve more customers. And as restrictions eased, more consumers felt safe going out to eat again.

Trends show that the market will continue to grow tremendously in the next few years. The global fast food industry was valued at $702.8 billion last year, and the burgers/sandwiches segment accounted for about 43% of that. The market is forecasted to grow to $964.6 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 4%.