Number of fast food restaurant outlets in the United Kingdom (UK) 2018, by type

Independent fast food restaurants (including takeaways) account for the majority of fast food outlets in the United Kingdom. In 2018, there were reportedly over 26 thousand independent outlets across the UK. Figures for the total UK foodservice market in 2018 also showed that overall there were more fast food restaurants than service-led restaurants.

How is the fast food market defined?

Fast food restaurants are one of the most important segments of the food service market. Also known as quick service restaurants (QSR), they refer to restaurants with limited to no table service that prepare and serve food immediately. ‘Fast food’ is often associated with brands such as McDonalds, which dominate the quick service market, however QSR also incorporates bakery and café concepts, food trucks and more.

Independents vs branded restaurants

Although the number of independent fast food outlets overshadows branded restaurants, in terms of value, traditional fast food brands are still among the biggest competitors in the market. Branded fast food restaurants including delivery focused brands accounted for over 8.5 billion British pounds of fast food market value in the UK in 2018.