Special Report
January 27, 2026
The U.S. fast casual industry continues its impressive ascent, with projections showing it will grow by $84.5 billion over the next few years to reach a staggering $148.4 billion by 2029.
As we enter 2026, the trends fueling this expansion have evolved. While high-quality ingredients and customization remain the bedrock of the industry, new drivers like AI-powered hyper-personalization, global comfort fusion (think Caribbean curry bowls and smashed burger tacos), and sustainability-led transparency are now defining the leaders of the pack. Today’s diners aren’t just looking for “fresh”— they are seeking “value that feels worth it,” balancing premium quality with digital-first convenience.
These shifts represent a new frontier for the industry, and a fresh wave of emerging brands is meeting the challenge with remarkable agility. FastCasual’s sixth annual report, “25 Brands to Watch,” identifies the trailblazers poised to become the next household names.
We are honored to introduce the 2026 class of “25 Brands to Watch.” These concepts are not just keeping pace with the industry; they are actively redefining it.
Congrats to the winners!
