Which UK region is leading fast food expansion?

Northern Ireland is at the top of the list.

In recent years the UK's fast-food market has experienced significant growth, with a surge in new restaurant openings nationwide. However, the pace of expansion varies significantly from region to region according to Meaningful Vision’s reporting. 

Northern Ireland is emerging as the fastest-growing region amongst QSR brands with a 9.5% increase in new restaurant openings. The region close to it is England, particularly the South East which witnessed a growth of 3.1% in new outlets.

Meanwhile, Scotland and Wales have experienced steady growth, with rates of 2.5% and 2.8%, respectively.

London, however, saw a modest growth of 0.5%. Digging deeper, the wider Greater London area has experienced a more significant increase of 2.6%. Despite its slower growth rate, London contributed the most to the overall number of new openings, accounting for 15% of all new stores.

The regional disparities in fast-food growth can be attributed to a mix of factors including, average income levels, consumer preferences, and population density. Areas with higher population densities, such as London and the South East, naturally attract more fast-food outlets. These two areas are the biggest contributors to new outlet openings in terms of number of stores, followed by East, North West and West Midlands.

“As the UK's fast-food market continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see further expansion, particularly in regions with high growth potential. However, it is important to note that the market is becoming increasingly competitive, and businesses will need to differentiate themselves to attract and retain customers. By understanding the regional dynamics of the UK's fast-food market, businesses can make informed decisions about their expansion strategies and marketing efforts.," Maria Vanifatova, the CEO of Meaningful Vision Ltd said.