The UK’s QSR and food-to-go sectors are set to outperform other eating out channels this year, supported by challenger brands, digital integration and scalable formats, according to Lumina Intelligence’s latest Operator Data Index.
QSR turnover is forecast to rise 3.4% to £17.7bn with outlet number up 1.5%. Brands such as Popeyes, Wingstop and German Doner Kebab continued to gain ground through aggressive expansion and strong presence in the high streets.
Food to go is another bright spot with the combined coffee and sandwich market forecast to grow 3.5% to £13.6bn.
Bakery-led food-to-go operators are set to lead the charge with Greggs pushing past 2,750 locations and GAIL’s growing 25% year-on-year.
Franchising is playing a key role for brands like Pret A Manager and WatchHouse, while digital investment continues to support efficiency and relevance across the board.
