A restaurant chain is a set of related restaurants, usually with the same name in many different locations either under shared corporate ownership (e.g., In-N-Out Burgers in the U.S.) or franchising agreements.

Typically, the restaurants within a chain are built to a standard format and offer a standard menu. Fast food restaurants are the most common, but there are also upscale versions. Restaurants chains are often found near shopping malls and tourist areas.

The proliferation of chain restaurants (and other chain businesses) is becoming an increasingly controversial trend worldwide. A common concern is nation-wide homogenization of culture, low wages often payed to employees of chain restaurants, and the furthering of suburban sprawl. In the U.S., a movement is building among communities and independent businesses opposing this trend. Examples include the American Independent Business Alliance The New Rules Project [http://www.newrules.org and the Council of Independent Restaurant Associations.

See also

• Business chain
• List of restaurant chains (non-fast food type)
• Fast-food restaurant
• Casual dining
• Fast casual restaurant

Restaurants