The fast-food market has undergone remarkable expansion in France since the first McDonald's opened in 1972. This restaurant model stands out for its fast service, varied menus and affordable prices. What's more, franchise development has played a key role in the growth of this sector, offering entrepreneurs the opportunity to participate in a dynamic market. Let's take a closer look at the trends and figures shaping the fast food landscape in France.
Fast-food restaurants, popular with consumers
Fast-food outlets are distinguished by their varied menus, affordable prices and fast service. Unlike traditional sit-down dining, fast-food restaurants focus on convenience and speed, enabling customers to satisfy their appetites quickly. These establishments offer a diverse range of dishes, often adapted to consumers' varied tastes. The major advantage of fast food lies in the variety of choices offered to customers. From burgers and salads to children's menus, fast-food outlets strive to cater to a wide range of dietary preferences.
Affordable prices make fast food an attractive option for those looking for a quick meal option without sacrificing their wallet. Speed of service is also a key feature, allowing customers in a hurry to enjoy quality meals in a short space of time. According to a 2019 EdenRed study, the French spend an average of just 31 minutes on their lunch break, creating an opportunity for the fast-food sector.
In addition, the fast-food sector recorded overall sales of almost €16.7 billion, with average basket sales up 10.3% on 2020. The figures also show that the sector remains dynamic, with average sales per establishment of €170,000. The French fast-food market also boasts some 208 networks and 6,658 franchisees. This expansion is underpinned by a growing diversity of offerings and ongoing network expansion. The sector accounts for 8.49% of total franchise sales in France, demonstrating its significant economic weight.
The out-of-home catering (RHD) or hors foyer (RHF) market is divided into 3 market segments:
- Collective catering (work, education, health, social, etc.)
- Alternative sales channels (food shops, itinerant, seasonal, service stations, press, tobacco, etc.)
- Commercial catering (table service, self-service, fast-food, cafés, drinking establishments, accommodation sites, transport sites, concession sites), including fast-food.
The foodservice market has sales of €90 billion.
THE "FAST-GOOD" CONCEPT, THE UNAVOIDABLE TREND IN THE FRANCHISE MARKET
Beyond the traditional image of fast food, the concept of "fast-good" or " fast-casual " is emerging, focusing on a more varied, healthy and qualitative offer that is gaining in popularity. Consumers are increasingly concerned about their diet, looking for healthier, higher-quality options. Mexican cuisine, such as that offered by NACHOS, is part of this trend, offering authentic, tasty dishes made with quality ingredients. Contrary to the common perception that fast food is synonymous with greasy, low-quality food, some franchises are committed to offering healthy, balanced alternatives. This is in response to growing consumer demand for food options that match their wellness concerns. Data show that this segment now accounts for 10% of the market. The French are increasingly concerned about their diet, and are ready to improve their eating habits.
EXPERT VOICE: BERNARD BOUTBOUL PRESIDENT GIRA, A RESEARCH, CONSULTING AND SUPPORT FIRM SPECIALIZING IN THE OUT-OF-HOME CATERING SECTOR
"The use of fresh, homemade products has also become a major trend in CAV. Today, counter sales no longer mean "junk food", a transformation that began with the arrival of chains offering upmarket self-service.
Today's counter sales market is highly diverse: ethnic cuisine, mono-products, healthy, and will certainly become even more diverse over the next few years."
Mexican restaurants, the new favorites of the French
Within this "fast-good" trend, Mexican cuisine stands out as a popular choice. The French are looking for new flavors, variety in fast-food options and original culinary specialties. Mexican restaurants, such as NACHOS offering fajitas and other authentic dishes, are responding to this growing demand.The development of the Mexican fast-food franchise offers entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to stand out in an already well-established market. As an innovative concept, NACHOS focuses on quality ingredients, conviviality and an exceptional culinary experience. With the French fast-food market growing rapidly, the expansion of Mexican cuisine, particularly through franchises like NACHOS, represents a promising avenue for satisfying consumers' palates and positioning the company advantageously in the French fast-food market.
NACHOS is in line with new market trends:
- THE DEVELOPMENT OF MOMENTS OF CONSUMPTION : The establishment must be a place of pleasure, a place of life where people can consume at any time of day.
- EATER-TAINMENT : the customer wants to feel emotion, authenticitý with the establishment and what it represents. The link must be kept on social networks to guarantee proximitý with the restaurateur.
- BE INSTAGRAMMABLE : Not only the dishes, but also the place where the customer eats lunch must be Instagrammable, a decisive aspect in his or her choice of consumption.
- "BETTER CONSUMPTION" : A short circuit, qualitý and seasonal products, an activitý mindful of its ecological impact. Today's customers, and especially those of tomorrow, are increasingly vigilant
Joining the NACHOS family is much more than just an entrepreneurial adventure. It means taking part in an innovative concept that fuses Mexican authenticity with individual adaptation, offering a unique culinary experience for all ages. The freshness and quality of our ingredients, cooked with passion every day, reflect our commitment to healthy, delicious food.
The brand, acclaimed by a growing community on social networks and praised by thousands of glowing customer reviews, testifies to a dedication to offering an unrivalled experience. Imagine yourself, in the heart of a bustling city or dynamic shopping mall, part of a family that's flourishing and multiplying across the country. Our dedicated teams are ready to accompany you every step of the way, offering you the support you need to make your project a flourishing success. NACHOS is ready to help you create, grow and enjoy every moment of this exciting adventure. Join NACHOS as a franchisee today, and together you can create the next big success in fast food!