The fast food market - United States

Fast food is defined as food that is prepared quickly and ready to be taken away for consumption. This market research includes all types of fast food, stands and tea rooms. It does not include retail sales through vending machines. The global fast food market has experienced years of growth, driven primarily by emerging markets and increasing penetration of fast food restaurants, as well as rising disposable incomes. In contrast, growth in the United States has been low, while Europe has experienced moderate growth. In the U.S., the fast-food industry has grown slightly over the past two years, as competition from other food outlets has put downward pressure on prices and ultimately revenues. [ibisworld] Nevertheless, the industry should benefit from a broader product offering, where healthier alternatives are offered alongside societal health trends The U.S. fast food market is highly fragmented, with many different chains and independent distributors in different food segments such as pizza, burgers, tacos and sandwiches. Some of the major players in the market include McDonalds, Subway and Starbucks. Fast food trends are influenced by society's growing consensus on health issues; in response to this, several retailers are offering vegan meals as well as alternatives that are lower in sugar, fat and salt.