Companies in this industry operate restaurants in which customers order and pay at a counter. Major companies include Chipotle, McDonald's, Wendy's, and Yum Brands (all based in the US), as well as Café de Coral (Hong Kong), Greggs (UK), Restaurant Brands International (Canada), and Seven & i Food Systems (Japan).
COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
Demand is driven by consumer tastes and personal income. The profitability of individual companies depends on efficient operations and effective marketing. Large companies have advantages in purchasing, finance, and marketing. Small companies can compete effectively by offering superior food or service. The US industry is highly fragmented: the 50 largest companies account for about 20% of revenue.
PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
Major products of limited-service restaurants include meals and snacks prepared without table service (30% of industry revenue), drive-through service (30%), for immediate consumption (20%), and prepared and served meals (5%).