The market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.25%. The United Kingdom (UK) Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) market is estimated to be valued at $34.07 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $44.01 billion by 2029, reflecting a CAGR of 5.25% from 2024 to 2029, according to Mordor Intelligence.
Ice cream is the fastest-growing cuisine segment, predicted to grow at a CAGR of 6.35% from 2024 to 2029, driven by a rise in experimental flavors among consumers and brands, as well as high seasonal consumption rates. Notable ice cream outlets include Ginger’s Comfort Emporium, Gelupo, Callestick Farm, Baskin Robbins, and Dunkin’ Donuts.
The burger segment holds the largest market share by cuisine type at 30.86% in 2023. Inclusion and innovation in offerings have helped maintain burgers as a primary fast-food choice in the country, with an increasing number of operators featuring them on their menus.
Meat-based dishes like chicken wings, chicken nuggets, and chicken lollipops are also popular, with sales values rising by 18.9% in 2022 compared to 2019, driven by high meat consumption levels. For example, the UK’s poultry meat consumption per capita was 32.7 kg in 2020, with popular fast-food chains including McDonald’s, KFC, and Subway.
Commonly preferred QSR items in the UK include burgers ($4.5 per 250 grams), French fries ($3 per 250 grams), onion rings ($3.4 per 250 grams), pizza ($8.5 per 300 grams), chicken nuggets (around $3.5 per 300 grams), and garlic bread (around $4.5 per 100 grams).
The average order value in the QSR market increased by 10.02% from 2017 to 2022 due to an inflation rate averaging 3 to 4% during that period and an increase in orders, which exceeded 63,432 per outlet in 2022.
The number of QSRs in the UK rose by about 10% from 2017 to 2022, driven by a growing number of franchise establishments and expanding company footprints. As of January 2023, there were approximately 1,382 McDonald’s outlets, 517 Burger King outlets, and 1,005 KFC outlets.
In terms of location, standalone restaurants accounted for over 72.35% of the market value share in 2022. These eateries are located in various settings, including urban areas, suburban strip malls, and rural communities, typically offering a limited menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
