Arby’s Market Share
Arby’s is a popular American fast-food restaurant chain known for its sandwiches, particularly those made with roast beef. Founded in 1964 by Forrest and Leroy Raffel in Boardman, Ohio, Arby’s has grown into one of the largest quick-service restaurant (QSR) chains in the U.S. The brand is widely recognized for its slogan, “We Have the Meats,” which emphasizes its focus on high-quality meats in its menu offerings. Arby’s is part of the Inspire Brands group, which also owns other fast-food brands like Buffalo Wild Wings and Sonic Drive-In.
Today, Arby’s operates over 3,300 locations across the United States and in international markets. The company’s mission is to provide its customers with a variety of high-quality sandwiches, including options made with beef, chicken, turkey, and other premium proteins. In addition to its main offerings, Arby’s is known for its seasonal menu items, limited-time offerings, and diverse range of sides and drinks.
Major Products and Services
Arby’s has established itself as a significant player in the fast-food industry by offering a wide array of menu items, catering to a broad spectrum of tastes. Some of the key products and services provided by the company include:
Sandwiches
Arby’s is most renowned for its sandwiches, particularly those made with premium roast beef. Its offerings go beyond the traditional sandwich, with options that include a variety of meats and unique flavor combinations. Key sandwiches on the menu include:
- Classic Beef ‘n Cheddar: A signature sandwich consisting of thinly sliced roast beef, cheddar cheese sauce, and a toasted bun.
- The Arby’s Classic Roast Beef: The original sandwich, featuring sliced roast beef on a sesame seed bun.
- Chicken Sandwiches: Arby’s offers a variety of chicken sandwiches, including fried and grilled options, catering to different dietary preferences.
- Turkey and Brisket Sandwiches: Arby’s expands its offering to include turkey and smoked brisket for customers seeking alternatives to roast beef.
Premium Proteins
In recent years, Arby’s has expanded its menu to include other premium meats and proteins, appealing to a diverse range of tastes and dietary preferences. Some popular premium protein sandwiches include:
- Smokehouse Brisket: A sandwich made with smoked beef brisket, cheddar cheese, and crispy onions on a toasted bun.
- Pork Belly: A sandwich featuring thick-cut pork belly, crispy onions, and BBQ sauce.
- Venison and Elk: Arby’s has introduced limited-time offerings like the venison and elk sandwiches to cater to adventurous eaters.
Sides and Drinks
In addition to its sandwiches, Arby’s offers an assortment of sides and drinks that complement its main menu items. These include:
- Curly Fries: Arby’s signature seasoned curly fries, a popular side option.
- Mozzarella Sticks: Fried mozzarella sticks served with marinara dipping sauce.
- Milkshakes: A variety of milkshakes, including chocolate, vanilla, and seasonal flavors.
- Soft Drinks: A selection of sodas and beverages, including iced tea and lemonades.
Limited-Time Offers (LTOs)
Arby’s is known for introducing seasonal and limited-time menu items that create excitement among its customers. These special offerings are often tied to holidays, sports events, or collaborations with other food brands. LTOs keep the menu fresh and generate buzz around new items.
Major Competitors
Arby’s competes in the fast-food and quick-service restaurant industry, where it faces competition from a wide range of national and international brands. Its competitors vary based on factors such as product offerings, pricing, and customer preferences. Below are some of Arby’s primary competitors:
1. McDonald’s
McDonald’s is one of the largest and most well-known fast-food chains globally. With its iconic Big Macs, fries, and breakfast menu items, McDonald’s serves millions of customers worldwide. While McDonald’s focuses heavily on burgers, it has increasingly expanded its menu to include salads, wraps, and breakfast items, making it a direct competitor to Arby’s in terms of menu diversity. McDonald’s vast international presence, strong brand recognition, and focus on value make it a formidable competitor to Arby’s.
2. Subway
Subway is a leading competitor in the sandwich segment, where Arby’s primarily operates. Known for its made-to-order subs and focus on fresh ingredients, Subway has built a loyal customer base over the years. The chain offers a wide range of sandwich options, including healthy choices, which positions it as a significant player in the fast-casual and QSR industry. Subway’s emphasis on customizability and healthier options provides a different appeal compared to Arby’s, though both share the sandwich category.
3. Wendy’s
Wendy’s is another strong competitor to Arby’s in the fast-food sector. Known for its square-shaped burgers and “fresh, never frozen” beef slogan, Wendy’s has a loyal following. Wendy’s menu includes a wide range of items such as burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and breakfast offerings. Wendy’s also competes with Arby’s by emphasizing quality ingredients and flavorful options, particularly in the burger and chicken categories.
4. Burger King
Burger King is a major competitor to Arby’s, offering a variety of fast-food options, including flame-grilled burgers, chicken sandwiches, and sides. As one of the largest burger chains in the world, Burger King competes directly with Arby’s in the QSR space. While Burger King is best known for its burgers, it has also expanded into chicken, fish, and breakfast items, putting it in direct competition with Arby’s across several product categories.
5. Jack in the Box
Jack in the Box is another key competitor in the fast-food industry, offering a diverse menu that includes burgers, tacos, chicken sandwiches, and breakfast items. Jack in the Box is known for its innovative menu items and promotions, which help it stand out from the competition. Similar to Arby’s, Jack in the Box appeals to customers looking for a quick meal with a variety of options.
6. Sonic Drive-In
Sonic Drive-In, a fast-food chain that focuses on drive-in service, competes with Arby’s by offering a broad menu of burgers, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, and sides. Known for its innovative drink options and the ability to customize orders, Sonic has a unique appeal. While its menu differs from Arby’s in terms of product offerings, the chains compete in the same fast-food space, catering to customers seeking convenience and quick service.
Arby’s Market Share Over the Past 10 Years
Arby’s market share has fluctuated over the past decade due to a variety of factors, including economic conditions, customer preferences, and competitive pressures. The following table presents an overview of Arby’s market share and market value in the U.S. fast-food industry over the last ten years:
| Year | Market Share | Market Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 3.6% | $4.3 Billion |
| 2016 | 3.7% | $4.6 Billion |
| 2017 | 3.8% | $4.8 Billion |
| 2018 | 3.9% | $5.0 Billion |
| 2019 | 4.1% | $5.3 Billion |
| 2020 | 4.4% | $5.7 Billion |
| 2021 | 4.5% | $6.0 Billion |
| 2022 | 4.7% | $6.3 Billion |
| 2023 | 4.8% | $6.5 Billion |
| 2024 | 5.0% | $6.8 Billion |
Arby’s market share has grown steadily over the past several years, especially after it was acquired by Inspire Brands in 2018. The company’s focus on premium meats, innovative menu items, and marketing campaigns has helped to increase its visibility and market presence.
Arby’s Market Share by Region
Arby’s operates primarily in North America, with the majority of its locations in the United States. However, it does have a presence in a few other international markets, including Canada and some countries in the Middle East. The following table outlines the regional market share of Arby’s based on available data:
| Region | Market Share | Market Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| North America | 5.0% | $6.8 Billion |
| Europe | 0.0% | N/A |
| Asia | 0.0% | N/A |
| South America | 0.0% | N/A |
| Africa | 0.0% | N/A |
| Middle East | 0.1% | N/A |
Arby’s does not have a significant presence in most international regions, focusing primarily on the U.S. market and a small number of international locations in the Middle East and Canada. The company’s strategy has largely been to strengthen its position within North America before considering further global expansion.
Factors Affecting Arby’s Market Share
Several factors influence Arby’s market share and its ability to compete in the highly competitive fast-food industry. These factors include:
1. Consumer Preferences
Changes in consumer preferences toward healthier eating habits and more sustainable food choices can impact Arby’s market share. The increasing demand for plant-based, low-calorie, and organic menu options may influence how Arby’s adapts its menu to appeal to modern consumers.
2. Competition
Arby’s faces intense competition from other fast-food giants, such as McDonald’s, Wendy’s, and Subway, as well as from regional chains and independent restaurants. The competitive landscape can make it challenging for Arby’s to maintain or increase its market share, as consumers have numerous choices when it comes to fast food.
Market Share Trends in the Next 5 Years
Looking forward, Arby’s is expected to continue growing its market share due to ongoing efforts in innovation, premium product offerings, and expansion into new markets. The following table highlights the projected market share and market value for Arby’s over the next five years:
| Year | Market Share | Market Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 5.2% | $7.0 Billion |
| 2026 | 5.5% | $7.3 Billion |
| 2027 | 5.8% | $7.7 Billion |
| 2028 | 6.0% | $8.0 Billion |
| 2029 | 6.2% | $8.3 Billion |
- Product Innovation: Continued innovation with new premium meats, healthier alternatives, and limited-time offers will likely drive growth in Arby’s market share.
- Expansion and Branding: Efforts to expand the brand through improved marketing strategies, store openings, and localized menu adaptations could enhance its position in the fast-food sector.