IBISWorld believes small to medium-sized fast food enterprises will be uniquely placed to capitalise on the global financial crisis as falling disposable incomes and rising unemployment force consumers to cut back on eating out at full-service restaurants, instead opting for fast food outlets or low-cost local takeaways.

“Low to medium barriers to entering the industry and capital requirements which aren't prohibitive make this a potentially lucrative option for new players, depending on the type and brand of franchise chosen. The cost of establishing a major franchise, such as McDonalds ($1.8m); KFC ($1.1m - $1.7m); or Subway ($250,000) is probably out of reach of those new to the food industry, however lesser known franchises may be available from around $90,000.

“Obviously, the cheapest option is steering away from brand-name franchises altogether to set up a fish and chips style takeaway venue, so we may see many more of these appearing on suburban street corners in the coming couple of years,” said Mr Bryant.