BUSINESS

Fast food from the US and China catches on in both countries

PUBLISHED Sep 20, 2026, 5:23 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 28

Left 11%

Center 79%

Right 11%

Sources: 28

The bilateral exchange of fast food between the United States and China highlights shifting consumer preferences and expanding international footprints across both nations. Established American chains such as KFC and McDonald's have deeply integrated into Chinese consumer habits through decades of market adaptation and menu localization. Meanwhile, newer US market entrants like Five Guys continue to scale operations by offering traditional Western recipes. Concurrently, quick-service and casual dining brands originating from China, spanning bubble tea, hot pot, and regional street food concepts, are scaling their international presence. These Chinese brands utilize standardized supply chains to target both overseas diaspora populations and mainstream consumers in Western markets, demonstrating a reciprocal culinary exchange driven by supply chain agility and evolving demographic trends.

By Ayesha A. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On January 15 1987, McDonald opened its first major restaurant location in Beijing.
On November 12 1987, KFC opened its inaugural store in central Beijing city.
On August 14 2013, Yum Brands restructured operational strategies across Chinese regional markets.
On October 22 2018, Five Guys opened its first restaurant in mainland China.
On March 10 2021, HeyTea expanded its initial North American retail footprint locations.
On May 18 2023, Haidilao increased international franchise development across major Western cities.
On September 12 2024, US fast casual burger chains announced increased franchise investments.
On January 14 2025, Chinese bubble tea brands reported accelerated global store rollouts.
On September 20 2026, market analysts evaluated the ongoing bilateral fast food expansion trends.
On September 20 2026, industry reports confirmed continued growth for cross-border food brands.
Expectations indicate further market expansion for cross-border quick service restaurant chains.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: US market experiences increased competition from diverse international food brands.
Possible long-term US impact: Global quick service sector sees deeper cross-border supply chain integration.
Most affected groups: International food franchises, consumers, retail investors, and urban restaurant workers.
Reader priority: Monitor financial filings and trade reports across major industry publications.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 28
Right Leaning:: 3
Left Leaning:: 3
Neutral:: 22

Explain Framing

Left: Emphasizes corporate globalization impacts and shifting international labor supply chains. Center: Focuses on neutral market data, consumer trends, and trade metrics. Right: Highlights competitive enterprise growth and international market access opportunities.