McDonald’s has been around for nearly 60 years and yet continues to utterly dominate not only the quick-service burger segment, but franchises in general.
It keeps up with the times by offering just enough in the way of healthier alternatives, more humane and eco-friendly ingredients, and the latest technological trends such as touch-screen ordering kiosks. It’s even going to begin testing a Beyond Meat plant-based burger offering in Canada called the PLT (plant, lettuce, tomato).
Founded in 1955 and franchising since then, the number of locations has continued its upward march and now stands at an impressive 39,696 (up from the previously reported total of 39,396), of which 2,032 are company-owned, 12,772 are US franchises, and 24,892 are located outside the US.
Five Guys Burgers & Fries decided it was time to franchise their concept in 2003, and sold an eye-popping 300 franchises in only 18 months. And it did all that without any paid advertising, relying instead on word-of-mouth.
Its menu features cooked-to-order hand-shaped burgers that can be enhanced with any or all of its 15 free toppings, hot dogs, grilled cheese sandwiches, and veggie sandwiches. The only side available is the company’s fresh-cut fries. It’s also known for its complimentary in-shell roasted peanuts – and lots of signage to warn those who might be allergic.
Founded by Janie and Jerry Murrell (and eventually including all five of their sons: Jim, Matt, Chad, Ben, and Tyler) in the suburbs of Washington, DC in 1986 and franchising since 2003, the company currently claims “over 1,600” locations across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, which is more than the “over 1,500” previously referenced in the company’s media fact sheet.