GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Food Services Industry Statistics

The food services industry includes restaurants, catering companies, and food trucks, generating billions of dollars in revenue annually and employing millions of people worldwide.

Highlights: Food Services Industry Statistics

  • By 2027, the global foodservice market is expected to reach $4.2 trillion, up from $3.4 trillion in 2018.
  • Over 14 million people are employed by the food and beverage service industry in the United States.
  • Fast food restaurants made up 34.4% of all food service sales in 2017.
  • Roughly 60% of restaurants fail within the first year, and nearly 80% shutter before their fifth anniversary.
  • From 1970 to 2017, the number of fast food restaurants in the US has doubled.
  • An estimated $799 billion was spent in the United States food service industry in 2017.
  • The fast-food industry is expected to have a projected annual growth of 2% from 2021-2026.
  • The foodservice industry totals about one-third of the U.S. food dollar.
  • As of 2018, there are over 660,755 restaurants in the US.
  • About 37% of restaurants in the U.S. offer online ordering.
  • The food delivery market is projected to reach $200 billion by 2025.
  • Sales among the top 100 foodservice companies grew by 4.9% in 2018.
  • It's estimated that 70% of restaurants are single-unit operations.
  • Healthy food sales in the foodservice industry are expected to reach $51 billion by 2024.
  • More than 70% of seafood consumed in the U.S. is eaten in foodservice operations.
  • U.S. restaurants are projected to reach $899 billion in sales in 2020.
  • Average daily sales for a small restaurant range from $5,000 to $25,000.
  • 63% of consumers use delivery services at least once a week.
  • Quick-service restaurants employ 4.4 million people in the US.

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The Latest Food Services Industry Statistics Explained

By 2027, the global foodservice market is expected to reach $4.2 trillion, up from $3.4 trillion in 2018.

This statistic indicates a projected annual growth rate in the global foodservice market over the period from 2018 to 2027. The expected increase from $3.4 trillion in 2018 to $4.2 trillion by 2027 reflects a significant expansion in the industry, with a total growth of $0.8 trillion over the nine-year period. This growth suggests a rising demand for food-related services worldwide, driven by factors such as population growth, changing consumer preferences, and economic development. It implies a promising outlook for businesses operating in the foodservice sector, with opportunities for expansion and innovation to meet the evolving needs of consumers across the globe.

Over 14 million people are employed by the food and beverage service industry in the United States.

The statistic that over 14 million people are employed by the food and beverage service industry in the United States highlights the significant impact of this industry on the country’s economy and labor market. This figure underscores the widespread employment opportunities provided by restaurants, cafes, bars, and other establishments within the food and beverage sector. The sizable workforce employed in this industry plays a crucial role in meeting the consumption needs of the population, contributing to economic growth and supporting livelihoods across a diverse range of occupations such as chefs, waitstaff, bartenders, and management personnel. Additionally, the statistic reflects the industry’s resilience and enduring demand for food services, making it a key sector in the U.S. labor market.

Fast food restaurants made up 34.4% of all food service sales in 2017.

The statistic “Fast food restaurants made up 34.4% of all food service sales in 2017” indicates that approximately one-third of all food service sales in 2017 were generated by fast food establishments. This suggests that fast food restaurants played a significant role in the food service industry during that year, capturing a substantial share of consumer spending on food purchases. The statistic highlights the popularity and prevalence of fast food as a dining option among consumers, showcasing its importance in the broader food service market and its impact on overall sales within the industry.

Roughly 60% of restaurants fail within the first year, and nearly 80% shutter before their fifth anniversary.

The statistic provided highlights the challenging landscape of the restaurant industry, indicating that approximately 60% of restaurants close down within the first year of operation. Furthermore, the data suggests that the struggle for survival continues, with nearly 80% of restaurants shutting their doors before reaching their fifth year anniversary. This statistic underscores the significant risks and difficulties that restaurant owners and entrepreneurs face, such as intense competition, high operating costs, changing consumer preferences, and challenges in managing inventory, staffing, and customer satisfaction. It underscores the importance of careful planning, strategic management, and adaptability in order to increase the chances of long-term success in the restaurant business.

From 1970 to 2017, the number of fast food restaurants in the US has doubled.

The statistic “From 1970 to 2017, the number of fast food restaurants in the US has doubled” indicates that there has been a significant increase in the presence of fast food establishments in the United States over the 47-year period. This growth implies a substantial expansion of the fast food industry, potentially driven by factors such as changes in consumer preferences, population growth, urbanization, and economic trends. The doubling of the number of fast food restaurants highlights the widespread popularity and accessibility of fast food options in American society. However, it also raises concerns about the implications for public health, as increased access to fast food may contribute to issues such as obesity and related health problems. Overall, this statistic underscores the profound impact of fast food on the American food landscape and cultural norms over the past few decades.

An estimated $799 billion was spent in the United States food service industry in 2017.

The statistic indicates that an estimated $799 billion was collectively spent by consumers in the United States on food services in the year 2017. This figure encompasses expenditures at a wide range of establishments including restaurants, cafes, fast food chains, and other food service providers. The magnitude of this spending reflects the significant economic value and contribution of the food service industry to the U.S. economy, highlighting the importance of dining out and food consumption as integral components of consumer spending habits. Overall, this statistic provides insights into consumer behavior, economic trends, and the scale of the food service industry within the United States during the specified year.

The fast-food industry is expected to have a projected annual growth of 2% from 2021-2026.

The statistic indicating a projected annual growth of 2% in the fast-food industry from 2021-2026 suggests that the industry is forecasted to gradually expand over the next five years. This growth rate indicates a relatively stable and steady increase in market size, likely driven by factors such as shifting consumer preferences, new product offerings, and strategic business expansions. A 2% annual growth rate signifies a moderate but consistent upward trajectory for the industry, reflecting a certain level of resilience and adaptability to changing market conditions. Overall, this statistic implies a positive outlook for the fast-food industry, with opportunities for continued expansion and development in the foreseeable future.

The foodservice industry totals about one-third of the U.S. food dollar.

This statistic indicates that approximately 33.3% of all money spent on food in the United States goes towards the foodservice industry, which includes businesses such as restaurants, catering services, and food trucks. This suggests that dining out or purchasing prepared food plays a significant role in the overall food economy of the country. Consumers allocate a substantial portion of their food budget to services that provide ready-to-eat meals or dining experiences, highlighting the popularity and importance of the foodservice industry in meeting Americans’ food consumption preferences and needs.

As of 2018, there are over 660,755 restaurants in the US.

This statistic indicates that as of 2018, there were more than 660,755 restaurants operating in the United States. This figure signifies the extensive presence and popularity of the restaurant industry across the country. The large number of restaurants highlights the significant role that the food service sector plays in the US economy, providing employment opportunities, contributing to the culinary diversity, and catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of consumers. Furthermore, this statistic underscores the competitive nature of the restaurant business, with establishments vying for customers through a variety of cuisines, services, and dining experiences.

About 37% of restaurants in the U.S. offer online ordering.

The statistic indicates that approximately 37% of restaurants in the United States provide customers with the option to place orders online. This suggests a significant proportion of the restaurant industry has embraced technology in response to consumer demand for convenience and efficiency in dining experiences. Online ordering can offer benefits such as flexibility, time-saving convenience, and contactless transactions, especially valuable in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This statistic highlights the evolving landscape of the restaurant industry, with a notable shift towards implementing digital solutions to better serve customer needs and adapt to changing market trends.

The food delivery market is projected to reach $200 billion by 2025.

This statistic suggests that the food delivery market is expected to grow significantly and reach a market value of $200 billion by the year 2025. This projection indicates a substantial expansion in the industry’s size and revenue potential over the next few years, driven by factors such as changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and increasing demand for convenient dining options. Such growth projections offer valuable insights for businesses operating in the food delivery sector, highlighting the lucrative opportunities and potential for market expansion that may result from tapping into this growing market.

Sales among the top 100 foodservice companies grew by 4.9% in 2018.

The statistic “Sales among the top 100 foodservice companies grew by 4.9% in 2018” indicates that the total revenue generated by the top 100 foodservice companies collectively increased by 4.9% from the previous year. This growth rate suggests an overall positive trend in the foodservice industry as these top companies experienced an increase in sales. Factors such as consumer demand, pricing strategies, market competition, and overall economic conditions likely contributed to this growth. Monitoring and analyzing sales trends among the top companies can provide valuable insights into the health and performance of the foodservice sector as a whole.

It’s estimated that 70% of restaurants are single-unit operations.

This statistic means that out of all the restaurants in a given area or population, approximately 70% of them operate as single-unit establishments, meaning they have only one location. This suggests that a majority of restaurants are small businesses with a single physical location rather than being part of a larger chain or franchise. This information is important for understanding the landscape of the restaurant industry, as it indicates that independent restaurants are a significant presence in the market. Additionally, it may have implications for competition, pricing, and consumer choice within the restaurant sector.

Healthy food sales in the foodservice industry are expected to reach $51 billion by 2024.

The statistic “Healthy food sales in the foodservice industry are expected to reach $51 billion by 2024” highlights the projected growth and importance of the healthy food sector within the foodservice industry. This figure indicates a significant market opportunity for businesses focusing on providing healthier dining options in response to increasing consumer demand for nutritious and wholesome food choices. The forecasted sales value of $51 billion by 2024 suggests a strong trend towards healthier eating habits among consumers and presents an attractive opportunity for foodservice providers to capitalize on this emerging market segment by offering a diverse range of healthy menu options.

More than 70% of seafood consumed in the U.S. is eaten in foodservice operations.

The statistic “More than 70% of seafood consumed in the U.S. is eaten in foodservice operations” indicates that a significant majority of seafood consumption in the United States occurs in settings such as restaurants, cafeterias, and other foodservice establishments. This suggests that a large portion of seafood consumption is driven by the demand for prepared meals and dining out rather than by individuals purchasing and preparing seafood at home. Factors contributing to this trend could include the convenience and variety offered by foodservice establishments, as well as shifts in consumer preferences towards dining out as opposed to cooking at home. Understanding this statistic is important for stakeholders in the seafood industry, as it highlights the significance of foodservice operations as a key market for seafood products.

U.S. restaurants are projected to reach $899 billion in sales in 2020.

The statistic that U.S. restaurants are projected to reach $899 billion in sales in 2020 indicates the estimated total revenue generated by the restaurant industry in the United States for that year. This figure reflects the significant economic impact of the restaurant sector in the country, highlighting its substantial contribution to the overall GDP. The projected sales value not only demonstrates the scale and scope of the industry but also serves as a key indicator of consumer spending habits, preferences, and overall economic health. The statistic underscores the importance of the restaurant sector as a major driver of growth, employment, and entrepreneurship in the U.S. economy.

Average daily sales for a small restaurant range from $5,000 to $25,000.

The statistic “Average daily sales for a small restaurant range from $5,000 to $25,000” indicates the variability in the daily revenue generated by the restaurant within a specific range. This range suggests that on any given day, the restaurant can potentially earn anywhere between $5,000 and $25,000 in sales. The wide range underscores the volatility and uncertainty in the restaurant’s daily revenue, which could be influenced by various factors such as seasonality, marketing efforts, customer preferences, and external factors like economic conditions or competition. Monitoring and analyzing these daily sales figures can help the restaurant management make informed decisions to optimize performance and financial outcomes.

63% of consumers use delivery services at least once a week.

The statistic “63% of consumers use delivery services at least once a week” indicates that a majority of consumers rely on delivery services regularly. This high percentage suggests a significant shift towards convenience and online shopping in the modern consumer landscape. The data implies that a large portion of the population values the convenience and efficiency of having goods delivered to their doorstep. This trend also points towards the increasing popularity of e-commerce platforms and the need for businesses to adapt to meet the growing demand for delivery services.

Quick-service restaurants employ 4.4 million people in the US.

The statistic that quick-service restaurants employ 4.4 million people in the US highlights the significant impact of this sector on the labor market. This figure represents a substantial portion of the overall workforce and emphasizes the widespread employment opportunities provided by fast-food and fast-casual restaurants across the country. The statistic also underscores the importance of these establishments in supporting economic growth and providing job opportunities for a large number of individuals. Additionally, it suggests the importance of considering the impact of policies and regulations on the labor force within the quick-service restaurant industry.

Conclusion

Overall, the food services industry statistics reveal a dynamic and competitive market with ongoing trends and shifts. It is evident that consumer preferences, technological advancements, and economic factors play significant roles in shaping the industry landscape. By staying informed and adapting to the changing environment, businesses in the food services industry can better position themselves for success.

References

0. – https://www.www.cnbc.com

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5. – https://www.www.choosechicago.com

6. – https://www.www.fishchoice.com

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8. – https://www.foodindustryexecutive.com

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How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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