1. Burger King
It’s hard to imagine Burger King vanishing, but the chain has been struggling to keep up with McDonald’s and Wendy’s. Frequent menu changes, inconsistent quality, and an outdated look have left customers underwhelmed. While they’ve launched efforts to revamp their brand, it may be too little, too late if they don’t deliver on those promises soon.
2. Ruby Tuesday
Technically more fast-casual than fast food, Ruby Tuesday deserves a mention because its steady decline has been hard to ignore. Overshadowed by fresher concepts like Sweetgreen and Shake Shack, Ruby Tuesday’s dated vibe and limited menu appeal make it a likely candidate for the chopping block.
3. Pizza Hut
Remember when Pizza Hut was the go-to for Friday night dinners? Those days seem to be behind us. The rise of Domino’s and fast-casual competitors like MOD Pizza has left Pizza Hut in the dust. Combine that with the decline of dine-in locations and a lackluster digital presence, and it’s clear they’re on shaky ground.
4. Quiznos
Quiznos was once a pioneer in toasted subs, but its inability to compete with the likes of Subway and Jimmy John’s has led to a steep decline. Add in sky-high franchise fees and quality control issues, and the brand now feels like a relic of the 2000s. With only a fraction of its original locations still operating, Quiznos could fade out entirely.
5. Jack in the Box
Jack in the Box has a loyal fanbase, but it’s been struggling to grow in a crowded market. The chain’s quirky marketing isn’t enough to mask its operational issues, including unhappy franchisees and declining sales. Without major changes, they could lose ground to better-positioned competitors.
6. Checkers and Rally’s
Known for their drive-thru-only locations and bold flavors, Checkers and Rally’s are struggling to stay relevant. While their menu has its fans, the chain’s lack of dine-in options and slow adaptation to delivery trends could spell trouble in the long run.
7. Steak ‘n Shake
Steak ‘n Shake has faced a whirlwind of financial and operational problems, from poorly maintained restaurants to major menu missteps. While they’ve attempted to pivot to a self-service model, the brand’s tarnished reputation and shrinking presence may make recovery an uphill battle.
8. Boston Market
Boston Market carved out a niche with its home-style rotisserie chicken, but the rise of fast-casual competitors like Panera Bread and Chipotle has overshadowed it. The chain’s declining sales and failure to update its menu and decor leave it at risk of becoming obsolete.
9. Del Taco
Del Taco has always been Taco Bell’s scrappier cousin, but it’s struggling to win the fast-food taco wars. While it’s made efforts to modernize with plant-based options and revamped stores, it hasn’t gained the traction needed to survive in a fiercely competitive market.
10. Subway
Subway once ruled the sandwich scene, but its reign has been shaky in recent years. The chain has been closing stores by the thousands as customers flock to competitors like Jersey Mike’s and Firehouse Subs, which offer fresher ingredients and a more premium experience. The company’s failure to modernize its menu and persistent franchisee complaints don’t help, either.
11. Krispy Kreme
Krispy Kreme’s glazed donuts are iconic, but the chain has struggled to maintain a steady presence. Frequent store closures, tough competition from Dunkin’, and a reliance on retail partnerships may make it harder for Krispy Kreme to stay afloat in the coming years.
12. Hardee’s
Hardee’s has been in a long battle to distinguish itself from sister chain Carl’s Jr., and that lack of a clear identity is a major issue. While it still has strong regional appeal, it risks being overshadowed by better-known burger chains that offer more innovation and consistency.
