McDonald's is the largest fast-food restaurant chain in the world and one of the most recognizable brands. With more than 39,000 locations in about 100 countries, it has become a symbol of globalization. McDonald's Corporation has around 37,900 franchises worldwide and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. It remains the largest fast-food company by revenue, with 68 million customers visiting its restaurants every day.
Starbucks is the largest single-brand restaurant chain and the largest restaurant operator in the world. Wendy's is an international American fast-food chain founded by Dave Thomas in 1969. Chipotle is one of the first fast and casual dining chains, and its main competitors include Qdoba Mexican Grill, Moe's Southwest Grill, Rubio's Coastal Grill and Baja Fresh. The top 100 fast-food chains in the world are analyzed by revenue and market capitalization. McDonald's is at the top of this list, followed by Starbucks, Wendy's, and Chipotle.
Other popular chains include Hardee's, Baskin Robbins, and Dunkin' Donuts. McDonald's had a humble start in front of a gas station in Corbin, Kentucky. It was under the guidance of businessman Ray Kroc that McDonald's went from being a local California burger chain to an innovative global fast-food mega brand. In 2002, Papa John's became the first pizza chain in the United States with an online ordering service.
Today, customers expect good service, proximity, fast delivery and increased delivery options from their favorite fast-food chains. Major fast-food chains such as McDonald's and Starbucks offer all of these options leading the way for all other chains.
