Fast food market value in the United Kingdom (UK) 2018, by type

Combined, branded fast food restaurants generated the largest share of fast food market value in 2018. Traditional branded restaurants were worth 4.9 billion British pounds in 2018, while branded restaurants with a focus on delivery generated over two billion pounds and branded contemporary restaurants a further 1.5 billion.

Fast food market in the UK

Fast food restaurants, also known as quick service restaurants (QSR), are a lucrative segment of the food service industry. According to reported figures on the eating out market, the UK fast food market was worth almost 15 billion British pounds in 2018. It competed with pubs and bars, which are now the most popular dining out option for Brits, more so than traditional service-led restaurants. Branded fast food restaurants made up an 8.9 percent share of eating out market value in 2017 compared to 25 percent for pubs and bars.

Branded vs. independent fast food restaurants

Although fast food brands generated the largest share of market value, independent outlets almost matched the value of traditional fast food restaurants. The UK was home to over 26 thousand independent fast food restaurants including takeaways in 2018, the most of any other fast food restaurant outlet type, establishing their significance on the market. The UK takeaway market has traditionally been an important segment and has recently received a boost thanks to developments in online food delivery apps.