Fast food in France is a dynamic sector that includes a wide variety of international and national chains. A 2019 study conducted by OpinionWay reveals that 40% of French people enjoy eating at fast-food restaurants, although they rarely go there, while 16% go regularly. These figures demonstrate French consumers’ fondness for this type of dining. Innovorder provides an overview of the top ten fast-food chains in France. This article covers: business model, number of locations, revenue, and a wealth of additional information about each of these chains.
Number of retail locations: Approximately 1,500
Revenue (excluding tax): Approximately 6.5 billion euros
Growth rate: Stable, with slight annual growth
We begin this overview of the 11 leaders in the French fast-food market with McDonald’s. This chain, founded in the United States, has been operating in France since 1979. With approximately 1,500 restaurants spread across the country, the brand is ubiquitous in major cities, shopping centers, and suburban areas. You can’t miss it! McDonald’s revenue in France (excluding tax) is around 6.5 billion euros, reflecting its immense popularity. The brand relies on constant menu innovation and high-impact marketing campaigns to maintain its dominant position. It has also invested in the digitalization of its services, with self-order kiosks and a high-performance mobile app, thereby enhancing the customer experience.
Number of retail locations: Approximately 500
Revenue (excluding tax): Approximately 1.9 billion euros
Growth rate: Steadily increasing since its return to France
Burger King, after leaving the French market in 1997, made a spectacular comeback in 2013. Since then, the chain has opened approximately 500 restaurants and generated revenue (excluding tax) of 1.9 billion euros. Burger King’s growth strategy is based on its image of superior quality and its flagship products, such as the famous Whopper. The brand also stands out for its bold and humorous marketing, which appeals to a wide audience, as well as a genuine vegetarian menu option thanks to its partnership with La Vie. Primarily located in major metropolitan areas, Burger King continues to expand its network, aiming to compete with McDonald’s in the French burger market.
Number of retail locations: Approximately 360
Revenue (excluding tax): Approximately 825 million euros
Growth rate: Moderate growth, with continued expansion
KFC, famous for its fried chicken recipes, has firmly established itself in France with no fewer than 360 locations. KFC France’s revenue (excluding tax) amounts to approximately 825 million euros. The chain focuses on steady expansion, particularly in urban areas and shopping centers. KFC stands out for its diverse product offerings, ranging from buckets of chicken to burgers and wraps. The brand has also invested in corporate social responsibility initiatives, including healthier meal options and efforts to promote environmental sustainability.
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Number of retail locations: Approximately 375
Revenue (excluding tax): Approximately 193 million euros
Growth rate : Stable with slight growth
The fast-food chain Subway, known for its customizable sandwiches, has approximately 375 restaurants in France. With revenue (excluding tax) of approximately 193 million euros, Subway has managed to thrive in a competitive market. Customers appreciate the ability to create their own sandwiches based on their current preferences and using a variety of fresh ingredients. The brand stands out for its “on-the-go” dining concept while offering healthier options. Subway is typically located in strategic locations such as city centers, train stations, and airports, targeting a broad customer base that is on the move and often pressed for time.
Number of retail locations: Approximately 480
Revenue (excluding tax): Approximately 310 million euros
Growth rate: Sustained growth driven by strong demand for home delivery
We continue this overview of the leading fast-food chains with Domino's Pizza, the market leader in pizza delivery in France, with more than 480 locations and revenue (excluding tax) of 310 million euros. The chain has successfully capitalized on the strong demand for home delivery, which was particularly pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Domino’s offers a wide range of pizzas and sides and relies on attractive promotions and product innovations to build customer loyalty. Digital transformation is also at the heart of its strategy, with a high-performing mobile app and website—tools that greatly facilitate online ordering.
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Number of retail locations: Approximately 270
Revenue (excluding tax): Approximately 80 million euros
Growth rate: Stable, with a focus on product innovation
Pizza Hut, with approximately 150 restaurants in France, generates revenue (excluding tax) of approximately 80 million euros. The chain stands out for its varied selection of pizzas—often innovative—as well as its delivery and dine-in services. Although its network is less extensive than Domino’s, it relies on the quality and originality of its products to set itself apart. Pizza Hut has also invested heavily in promotional offers and partnerships to attract new customers.
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Number of retail locations: Approximately 135
Revenue (excluding tax): Approximately 415 million euros
Growth rate: Stable, with initiatives focused on modernization and targeted expansion
Quick, a Belgian fast-food chain, is well established in France with approximately 135 locations. Its revenue, excluding tax, is around 415 million euros. Quick positions itself as an alternative to McDonald’s and Burger King, offering a selection of burgers and snacks tailored to local tastes. The brand focuses on modernizing its restaurants and innovating its menu to remain competitive. Quick also targets a young customer base with special offers and themed menus.
Number of retail locations: Approximately 270
Revenue (excluding tax): Approximately 310 million euros
Growth rate: Rapid growth thanks to the popularity of its giant tacos
O'Tacos is a French restaurant chain specializing in French-style tacos. The chain has experienced rapid growth, with approximately 270 restaurants and revenue (excluding tax) of 310 million euros. The brand is particularly popular among young people, thanks to its generously filled and customizable tacos. O'Tacos stands out for its unique concept and original recipes that combine Mexican and French influences. With locations in major cities and shopping districts, the brand continues to attract customers seeking novelty and culinary diversity.
Number of retail locations: Approximately 60
Revenue (excluding tax): Approximately 20 million euros
Growth rate: Strong growth with steady expansion
BCHEF is a French fast-food chain that stands out for its hybrid concept, combining burgers, bagels, salads, and a coffee shop. Founded in 2014, the brand has grown rapidly and now has more than 60 locations across France. BCHEF emphasizes the quality of its ingredients and the customization of its products, allowing each customer to create a meal tailored to their tastes. The brand is positioned in the fast-casual segment, offering a healthier and more gourmet alternative to traditional fast-food restaurants. With continued growth, BCHEF is expanding its network and attracting customers seeking culinary diversity and personalized experiences.
Number of retail locations: Approximately 30
Revenue (excluding tax): Approximately 45 million euros
Growth rate: Significant growth since its arrival in France
Five Guys, a premium American burger chain, has quickly established itself in France since its arrival. With approximately 30 restaurants and pre-tax revenue of 45 million euros, Five Guys targets lovers of high-quality burgers. The brand sets itself apart from its competitors through its customizable menu and the freshness of its ingredients. The restaurants, located primarily in major cities such as Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, offer a premium fast-food experience. Five Guys also focuses on a relaxed atmosphere and high-quality customer service to build customer loyalty.
👉 F urther information: Opening a fast food franchise: the ultimate guide
Number of retail locations: Approximately 50
Revenue (excluding tax): Approximately 70 million euros
Growth rate: Moderate growth, with a focus on customer experience and product quality
We cannot conclude this article without mentioning Prêt À Manger, a British chain specializing in fresh takeout meals, which has approximately 50 locations in France and generates 70 million euros in revenue (excluding tax). The brand stands out for its commitment to fresh ingredients and the daily preparation of its products. Prêt À Manger is primarily located in major cities and business districts, attracting customers seeking quality and speed. The chain offers a wide range of sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts, with a particular focus on vegetarian and vegan options.
Each of the chains featured in this article makes a unique contribution to the fast-food market, catering to the diverse preferences of French consumers. To learn more about the business models behind these chains, check out the 6 profitable models that are taking the fast-food industry by storm. Whether it’s burgers, pizza, tacos, or fresh meals, these chains continue to innovate and adapt to stay attractive and competitive in a constantly evolving industry.
However, other types of dining establishments are emerging in France, such as “dark kitchens”—these 100% delivery-focused ghost kitchens that are proliferating alongside traditional restaurants. The rise of modern bistros, specialty coffee shops, food trucks, as well as organic and ethically sourced restaurants, reflects an ongoing transformation of the French culinary scene. These new trends respond to a growing demand for diverse, high-quality dining experiences, while emphasizing sustainability and the authenticity of ingredients.
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