Australia’s fast food industry has experienced steady and robust growth over the past five years, establishing itself as a significant player in the national food service sector.
With projections showing industry revenue climbing to A$28.9 billion in 2024—up from around A$27 billion in 2019—and the number of outlets exceeding 30,000 locations, this sector has thrived despite economic uncertainties and changing consumer preferences.
Fuelled by an increasing demand for convenience, digital ordering, value-oriented meals, and healthier menu options, fast food now represents over 35% of the overall food service market.
As leading brands expand and new entrants make their mark, the industry is expected to pick up even more speed, with annual growth rates anticipated to surpass 4% in the coming years. (sources: IBISWorld, IMARC Group, Imagine Collective).
With the growth of fast food comes the growth of fast food franchises. In this blog, we examine the Top 15 fast-food franchises in Australia and the fastest-growing fast-food franchises in Australia.
If you are wondering who tops the list of largest fast food franchises, here is a hint – It’s the place where you head to eat the fresh green sandwiches.
In terms of the fastest-growing fast food franchise, it’s our local homegrown Aussie brand that recently debuted on ASX.
Enough of hints! Presenting the list of the largest and fastest-growing food franchises in Australia.
Let’s get rolling:
According to the latest reports and statistics available from Statista and Scrape Hero, Subway, followed closely by McDonald’s, has the largest number of fast food franchise stores in Australia.
| Rank | Brand | Number/Estimated Locations (2025) |
About |
| 1 | Subway | 1,243–1,245 |
Subway is the largest fast food franchise in Australia, with 1,245 locations as of May 2025. Most Australians live within 3 km of a store, and although growth has slowed, Subway has a strong presence across the country. |
| 2 | McDonald’s | 1,053 |
McDonald’s has over 1,000 outlets nationwide and is a key player in the market. In 2024, it was one of the fastest-growing quick service restaurant brands, helping the overall sector grow. Its steady expansion comes from digital ordering, drive-thrus, and new menu options. |
| 3 | KFC | 784 |
KFC operates around 784 restaurants in Australia and is among the top performers in outlet growth, especially in regional areas. Its growth comes from new store formats and longer hours. |
| 4 | Domino’s Pizza | 726 |
Domino’s Pizza has 726 stores as of June 2025, making it the largest pizza chain in Australia. It focuses on delivery and has shifted from rapid expansion to a more deliberate growth strategy, while continuing to add new outlets. |
| 5 | Hungry Jack’s | 477 |
Hungry Jack’s, the local version of Burger King, has 477 stores across Australia and was one of the fastest-growing brands in 2024. The chain has updated many of its stores and introduced loyalty programs and app features to enhance customer connections. |
| 6 | Boost Juice | 374 |
Boost Juice is the largest juice and smoothie franchise in Australia, with 374 outlets as of early 2024. It is expanding through franchising in busy areas. Its focus on health and strong retail presence makes it stand out in the beverage market. |
| 7 | Red Rooster | 325 |
Red Rooster operates 325 outlets and has experienced a recovery in recent years. The brand has refreshed its image and menu to attract younger customers, leading to new growth after a period of decline. |
| 8 | Pie Face | 297 |
Pie Face has 297 outlets and maintains a good presence despite past financial issues. The brand has stabilised and is growing slowly, mainly by working with convenience stores and service stations. |
| 9 | Pizza Hut | 273 |
Pizza Hut operates 273 outlets in Australia and competes directly with Domino’s. Its growth is slower, but it has improved customer ordering with new digital systems and updated stores. |
| 10 | Guzman y Gomez | ~230–250 |
Guzman y Gomez is one of the fastest-growing food brands in Australia. While exact store numbers weren’t confirmed, the brand opened at least 25 new locations in 2024, bringing its total to over 190 stores with plans to expand further. |
| 11 | Zambrero | ~200 |
Zambrero, another Mexican-inspired quick service restaurant, is also growing quickly. It focuses on “feel-good Mex” food and has embraced a charitable model, which helps it expand steadily in cities and regions. |
| 12 | Sushi Hub | ~177 |
Sushi Hub is a leading sushi franchise in Australia, experiencing rapid growth in recent years, although exact numbers were not confirmed as of late. It continues expanding in shopping centres and city hubs. |
| 13 | Oporto | ~150–160 |
Oporto is known for its Portuguese-style chicken and was one of the fastest-growing quick-service restaurant (QSR) chains in 2024. Its growth focuses on coastal cities and highway locations, and it continues to expand through franchising. |
| 14 | Grill’d | ~150–155 |
Grill’d, a premium burger chain, operates 172 stores and aims to grow by adding 20 new drive-thru locations by FY2026. Its focus on healthy options and community involvement helps it stand out in the crowded burger market. |
| 15 | Mad Mex | ~70+ |
Mad Mex is a mid-sized quick-service restaurant (QSR) brand expanding into urban areas. While recent data did not provide specific outlet numbers, it is steadily growing through franchising, especially in capital cities. |
Here is a Summary Table: Fastest-Growing Franchises by Outlet Growth in Australia, based on the most recent available growth data and industry reporting for the 2023–2025 period:
| Sl No. | Franchise Name | Notable Net Outlet Growth (Recent Year) | About |
| 1 | Guzman y Gomez | +27+ new stores | Guzman y Gomez has quickly become one of Australia’s fastest-growing quick-service restaurant brands, expanding with about 25 new locations in the past year. |
| 2 | KFC | +23–35 net new stores | KFC operates approximately 784 outlets nationwide, expanding its presence through new store formats and enhanced drive-thru and delivery services. |
| 3 | Zambrero | +20 net new stores | Zambrero, renowned for its healthy Mexican cuisine and charitable mission, continues to expand its footprint in suburban and regional areas, with a focus on takeout and digital channels. |
| 4 | Oporto | +16 net new stores | Oporto has grown through franchising and strategic planning, particularly in urban and coastal regions, where it is celebrated for its flame-grilled Portuguese-style chicken. |
| 5 | Hungry Jack’s | +16–17 net new stores | Hungry Jack’s, with around 477 outlets, is modernising locations and investing in digital engagement, contributing to continued growth. |
| 6 | McDonald’s | +19 net new stores | McDonald’s maintains a strong position with over 1,000 locations, supported by its extensive drive-thru network and continuous innovation. |
| 7 | Subway | +5–17 net new stores | Subway remains the largest quick-service restaurant (QSR) in Australia, with 1,245 stores, benefiting from a dense network despite a slowed expansion rate. |
| 8 | Sushi Hub | +14 net new stores | Sushi Hub has established itself as a leading sushi franchise, growing through locations in shopping centers and transit hubs. |
| 9 | Grill’d | +5 net new stores | Grill’d, with 172 locations, is expanding its premium burger offerings and plans to launch 20 new drive-thru outlets by 2026. |
| 10 | Mad Mex | +5 net new stores | Mad Mex is strategically expanding in capital cities and suburban markets, while Betty’s Burgers is growing, particularly in Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland |
| 11 | El Jannah | +5 net new stores | El Jannah has expanded significantly from a Sydney favorite to a national brand, with over 40 locations and plans for continued growth. |
With the above statistics and table, our blog concludes.
In conclusion, Consumer eating habits have undergone significant changes, with a growing preference for quick digital ordering, drive-thru services, and takeaway options.
Popular global cuisines, such as Mexican, sushi, and Middle Eastern fare, are gaining popularity. Additionally, there’s a clear shift toward customisation, plant-based offerings, and brands that prioritise social and environmental responsibility.
Among the top 15 fast-food franchises, we find Subway, McDonald’s, KFC, Domino’s, Hungry Jack’s, Boost Juice, Guzman y Gomez, Zambrero, Oporto, Sushi Hub, Grill’d, El Jannah, Mad Mex, Betty’s Burgers, and Red Rooster. These brands have built strong national reputations and have played a key role in the net growth of over 152 outlets among leading chains in 2024 alone.
Looking ahead, fast food franchises in Australia are poised to thrive as they adapt to the growing demands for speed, flavour, and shifting customer expectations.
