Burger King UK Shows Strong Performance Despite Challenges in the Fast-Food Sector

Burger King UK has announced a “solid performance and resilient growth” over the past year, demonstrating the brand’s ongoing strength in a challenging market.

Operating 574 restaurants across the UK, approximately half of which are company-owned, Burger King UK saw its revenue rise 7% to £408.3 million for the year ending 31 December 2024. Like-for-like sales increased 4.5% to £347 million, driven by higher home delivery volumes, targeted marketing initiatives, and enhanced in-store trading. The group also reported a 12% growth in underlying EBITDA to £26 million, reflecting disciplined cost management and operational efficiency.

The brand continued its expansion during the year, opening 13 new restaurants, acquiring two additional sites from sub-franchisees, and completing 18 refurbishments. Innovation remained a focus, with the introduction of new menu items including an updated Whopper and The Wagyu, the latter launched in collaboration with celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.

Looking ahead, Burger King UK confirmed plans to expand into the Republic of Ireland under a new master franchise agreement with Burger King Europe GmbH, a subsidiary of Restaurant Brands International.

“While macroeconomic and political uncertainty persists, we are confident that our ambitious expansion plans, ongoing innovation, and investment in digital initiatives will drive sustained growth,” said Alasdair Murdoch, CEO of Burger King UK.

Murdoch noted that despite inflation in food and utilities returning to more normal levels, the sector faces softer consumer sentiment and rising labor costs due to increases in the National Minimum and Living Wage.

“Momentum remains strong into 2025,” Murdoch added. “We have surpassed $1 billion in system-wide sales, more than doubling our sales since 2017 when Burger King UK was acquired by Bridgepoint. With a consistent leadership team and focus on growth and innovation, we continue to deliver for our customers.”