Thinking of Buying a Burgers Business in Australia? Here Are 3 Vital Questions to Ask
The Australian fast food burger industry is valued at $11.5 billion in 2025, employing more than 81,900 people across 9,100 enterprises.
Profit margins average 12.3%, generating $1.41 billion in profit.
Revenue is projected to grow at an annualised 2.1% through 2030, reaching $12.8 billion, supported by consumer demand for convenience, premiumisation, and the ongoing shift toward gourmet and plant-based burgers.
However, the market faces strong competition from cafes, supermarkets, and delivery services, requiring operators to differentiate through quality, innovation, and efficiency.
1. Is the Business Financially Sustainable and Profitable?
Why It Matters:
Burger shops operate with relatively steady demand even during economic downturns, as fast food remains a low-cost dining option.
Profitability depends on volume sales, labour efficiency, and menu innovation that supports higher average transaction values.
What to Check:
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Revenue and margins – Compare the business’s margins to the 12.3% industry benchmark.
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Cost structure – Purchases of beef, poultry, and vegetables have risen alongside food inflation, while wages total $2.5 billion in 2025.
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Technology use – Evaluate adoption of digital POS systems, delivery integrations, and loyalty apps to maintain competitiveness.
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Resilience to cost pressures – Review pricing flexibility and supplier contracts to manage input volatility.
2. How Competitive is the Business’s Market Position?
Why It Matters:
The market is dominated by major players — McDonald’s (49.6% share), Hungry Jack’s (21%), and Grill’d (4.3%) — but independent gourmet outlets continue to expand.
Location, brand strength, and operational scale determine a store’s ability to compete effectively in both local and online markets.
What to Check:
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Brand positioning – Determine whether the business competes on value (fast food) or experience (premium burgers).
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Customer base – Younger consumers (15–34) account for more than 50% of demand, with a growing preference for plant-based and sustainable menus.
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Delivery and convenience – Review reliance on platforms such as Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Menulog, which now drive a significant portion of industry sales.
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Local competition – Assess saturation within the trade area, as cafes and sandwich shops are increasingly attracting lunch-time customers.
3. Is the Business Aligned with Industry Trends and Future Growth?
Why It Matters:
Trends such as health-conscious eating, sustainability, and premiumisation are reshaping consumer expectations.
Businesses that innovate and balance indulgence with health-driven offerings will outperform traditional operators.
What to Check:
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Menu innovation – Review inclusion of low-carb, vegan, and premium ingredients such as Wagyu beef or gluten-free options.
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Sustainability focus – Confirm sourcing transparency and eco-friendly packaging practices that align with growing environmental awareness.
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Technology and delivery – Assess the business’s mobile app, drive-through, or ordering system readiness to enhance convenience.
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Expansion readiness – Evaluate scalability through franchising, food truck operations, or multi-location models.
Ready to Invest in a Thriving Burgers Business?
With strong consumer loyalty, expanding gourmet demand, and technology-driven ordering systems, burger businesses continue to perform well even in challenging economic conditions.
Long-term success depends on operational efficiency, product differentiation, and alignment with evolving health and sustainability trends.
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