The 2nd Pepsi British QSR & Franchise Awards are set to celebrate one of the nation’s most beloved quick-service staples: The Burger. They have two dedicated categories honouring the brands setting the benchmark for taste, creativity, and growth across the UK.
The Burger Brand of the Year category shines a spotlight on established names that have redefined the art of the burger experience, combining premium ingredients, bold flavours, and strong brand identity.
This year’s finalists include:
- Phat Buns
- SoBe Burger
- Rocket Restaurants
- SlamBurger
- The Burger Priest
- Shake Shack
- Burgerlicious
- Smashburger
- Smoke & Pepper
- MEATliquor
These brands are known for their loyal followings and innovative menus that continue to push boundaries within the QSR scene.
Alongside them, the Emerging Burger Brand of the Year category celebrates the rising stars of the industry, the independent and fast-growing brands making their mark with fresh concepts and ambitious expansion plans.
The nominees are:
- The 12th Street Burgers
- Burger Drop
- Side Street
- Chicos
- Patty&Bun
- 5 Akhis
- Burger & Beyond
- Legends
- Urban Fresh
- Betsy Burger
Each of these businesses are being recognised for bringing something new to the UK’s ever-evolving burger market.
Both categories highlight the creativity and resilience of British burger entrepreneurs, whose innovation and passion continue to drive the sector forward, from neighbourhood favourites to nationwide franchises.
Whether focused on handcrafted patties, gourmet twists, or next-level customer experiences, these brands represent the best of what the UK’s QSR burger culture has to offer.
A spokesperson for the Pepsi British QSR & Franchise Awards 2026 said: “The burger scene in the UK has never been more exciting or competitive. These finalists embody the spirit of innovation, quality, and community that defines today’s quick-service industry.
Whether established names or emerging contenders, they’re all proving that there’s no limit to what a great burger brand can achieve.”
The winners will be revealed at the upcoming Pepsi British QSR & Franchise Awards, as QSR CNCT continues to celebrate the people and brands shaping the future of the UK’s quick-service restaurant industry.
