What To Know
- Among the most recognizable names in the industry are Burger King and Dairy Queen.
- Although Burger King and Dairy Queen do not share ownership, they compete fiercely in the fast-food market.
- In 2016, Dairy Queen launched a co-branded concept with 7-Eleven, offering its ice cream and other products in select stores.
The fast-food landscape is a competitive one, with countless chains vying for customers’ attention. Among the most recognizable names in the industry are Burger King and Dairy Queen. But does the burger giant own the ice cream haven? Let’s delve into the fascinating tale of ownership and find out.
History of Burger King and Dairy Queen
Burger King
- Founded in 1954 in Jacksonville, Florida
- Known for its flame-broiled burgers and signature Whopper sandwich
- Currently operates over 13,000 restaurants worldwide
Dairy Queen
- Founded in 1940 in Joliet, Illinois
- Famous for its soft-serve ice cream and iconic Blizzard treats
- Currently operates over 7,000 restaurants globally
Ownership Structure
The short answer is no, Burger King does not own Dairy Queen. The two companies have distinct ownership structures:
- Burger King: Owned by Restaurant Brands International (RBI), a Canadian holding company that also owns Tim Hortons and Popeyes.
- Dairy Queen: Owned by Berkshire Hathaway, a conglomerate led by billionaire investor Warren Buffett.
Different Business Models
Despite their shared status as fast-food giants, Burger King and Dairy Queen operate under different business models:
- Burger King: Primarily a quick-service restaurant chain specializing in burgers, fries, and other savory items.
- Dairy Queen: A combination of quick-service and dessert-focused restaurant chain, offering ice cream, milkshakes, and other sweet treats.
Branding and Marketing
While Burger King and Dairy Queen share some similarities in their branding, they maintain distinct identities:
- Burger King: Known for its bold and edgy marketing campaigns, often featuring celebrities and pop culture references.
- Dairy Queen: Emphasizes family-friendly values and nostalgia, with a focus on quality ice cream and classic flavors.
Competitive Landscape
Although Burger King and Dairy Queen do not share ownership, they compete fiercely in the fast-food market:
- Burgers: Burger King competes with McDonald’s, Wendy’s, and other burger chains.
- Ice Cream: Dairy Queen battles against Baskin-Robbins, Cold Stone Creamery, and other ice cream parlors.
Strategic Partnerships
While not directly owned by Burger King, Dairy Queen has formed strategic partnerships with other companies in the past:
- ExxonMobil: In 2010, Dairy Queen partnered with ExxonMobil to offer its treats at gas stations and convenience stores.
- 7-Eleven: In 2016, Dairy Queen launched a co-branded concept with 7-Eleven, offering its ice cream and other products in select stores.
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Titans
Burger King and Dairy Queen remain two distinct entities, each with its own unique history, ownership structure, and business model. While they compete in the fast-food landscape, their contrasting strengths and target audiences ensure their enduring popularity with consumers.
FAQ
Q: Is Burger King and Dairy Queen the same company?
A: No, Burger King and Dairy Queen are separate companies with different ownership structures.
Q: Who owns Burger King?
A: Burger King is owned by Restaurant Brands International (RBI).
Q: Who owns Dairy Queen?
A: Dairy Queen is owned by Berkshire Hathaway.
Q: Does Dairy Queen sell burgers?
A: No, Dairy Queen primarily focuses on ice cream and other desserts.
Q: Does Burger King sell ice cream?
A: Yes, Burger King offers a limited selection of ice cream treats, such as sundaes and milkshakes.
Q: Which company is older, Burger King or Dairy Queen?
A: Dairy Queen was founded in 1940, while Burger King was founded in 1954.
Q: How many Burger King restaurants are there worldwide?
A: Over 13,000
Q: How many Dairy Queen restaurants are there globally?
A: Over 7,000
Q: What is the signature product of Burger King?
A: The Whopper sandwich
Q: What is the iconic treat of Dairy Queen?
