Book excerpt: The sales growth of multiunit, fast-food operators rose 315%from 1967 to 1972. The market influences on growth trends include population demographic characteristics, personal disposable income, price, varying lifestyle, and consumer attitude change. Difficult cost structures and competitive pressures have resulted in larger menus and longer hours. Locations and facilities that provide easy access and quick turnover are cost-effective. Methods to increase labor productivity and technology and franchising have added to industry growth. Effective management style and control plusadequate capital structure and finance enhance growth. 9, actual case studies present management decision-making processes and experiences that represent inital decisions that have influenced the competitiveness of each firm. The issue of operating policy is predominant.