The market size of the United Kingdom's fast food and takeaway industry stood at 23.1 billion British pounds in 2025. Meanwhile, employees in the sector numbered over 400,000. How many fast food and takeaway restaurants are in the UK? The number of businesses in the UK's takeaway and fast food sector totaled close to 50,000 as of January 2025. At the forefront of the industry are household names such as Greggs, KFC, and McDonald's, all of which regularly rank among the most popular dining brands in the UK. Greggs, in particular, has seen impressive growth in the past two decades, with the bakery chain's turnover more than tripling between 2006 and 2023. What is the most popular takeaway food in Great Britain? A 2023 survey asked consumers in Great Britain to rank their favorite type of takeaway food. Pizza ended up being the most popular takeaway cuisine in Great Britain that year, with 50 percent of respondents choosing the dish. Other popular takeaway options in the United Kingdom’s restaurant delivery and takeaway industry include Chinese, Italian, and Burgers.

From 2019 to 2024, consumers in Great Britain were surveyed on how often they bought food and drink at fast food outlets. In January 2024, almost half of the respondents stated that they never bought food and drink at fast food outlets. Meanwhile, 15 percent of respondents stated that they did so once a week.

The number of takeaway and fast food restaurants in the United Kingdom has increased over the past decade. In 2023, the UK had nearly 48 thousand takeaway and fast food restaurants. This figure was forecast to increase to approximately 49.5 thousand in 2024.

In 2019/20, when asked how often they eat out at fast food restaurants, 16 percent of 18-24 year old respondents said at least once a week, compared to just four percent of 65 and overs. There was a general correlation between age and eating fast food, with younger respondents eating at fast food restaurants more often than older respondents.

Combined, branded fast food restaurants generated the largest share of fast food market value in 2018. Traditional branded restaurants were worth 4.9 billion British pounds in 2018, while branded restaurants with a focus on delivery generated over two billion pounds and branded contemporary restaurants a further 1.5 billion.

Fast food market in the UK

Fast food restaurants, also known as quick service restaurants (QSR), are a lucrative segment of the food service industry. According to reported figures on the eating out market, the UK fast food market was worth almost 15 billion British pounds in 2018. It competed with pubs and bars, which are now the most popular dining out option for Brits, more so than traditional service-led restaurants. Branded fast food restaurants made up an 8.9 percent share of eating out market value in 2017 compared to 25 percent for pubs and bars.

Branded vs. independent fast food restaurants

Although fast food brands generated the largest share of market value, independent outlets almost matched the value of traditional fast food restaurants. The UK was home to over 26 thousand independent fast food restaurants including takeaways in 2018, the most of any other fast food restaurant outlet type, establishing their significance on the market. The UK takeaway market has traditionally been an important segment and has recently received a boost thanks to developments in online food delivery apps.

This statistic shows the leading fast food (quick service) restaurants in the United Kingdom (UK) in 2015. During the survey, 57 percent of respondents said they went to McDonald's, while 42 percent chose KFC.

Despite the popularity McDonald's enjoy in the United Kingdom, there are far fewer McDonald's restaurants per million people in the United Kingdom, than in similar nations. In 2014, the highest number of restaurants per million people could be found in the United States with 45.1 restaurants per million people. There were less than half of that number in the United Kingdom during 2014, with 19.1 McDonald's restaurants per million people.

In 2014, Europe generated more revenue for McDonald's than any other region, creating 11.08 billion U.S dollars, ahead of the 8.65 billion U.S dollars in revenue coming from the United States.

Residents of the United Kingdom are one of biggest spenders when it comes to food and beverage services. In 2015, the turnover of food and beverage service activities in the United Kingdom was higher than in any other member state of the European Union. Despite having a similar population to France and a smaller population than Germany, turnover in the food and beverage service industry amounted to 87.7 billion euros in the United Kingdom, compared with 63.17 billion euros in France and 53.03 billlion euros in Germany.

SUMMARYThe number of fast food outlets (as of 31/12/2017) per 1000 population. This statistic is reported at the ward level, except in locations where ward-level data was unavailable. In these instances, district-level data was used to fill in the data gaps.For a full description of the establishments included as ‘fast food outlets’, see: Fast food outlets: density by local authority in England - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). Note: Public Health England states this is unlikely to be a definitive list of all fast food outlets, but it gives a good estimate.DATA SOURCESNumber of fast food outlets per ward or district: © Public Health England. Population data: Mid-2017 (June 30) Population Estimates for Wards in England and Wales. © Office for National Statistics licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. © Crown Copyright 2018.Administrative boundaries: Boundary-LineTM: Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2021. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.COPYRIGHT NOTICE© Public Health England; © Office for National Statistics licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. © Crown Copyright 2018.; Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2021. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Data edited for publishing by Ribble Rivers Trust.CaBA HEALTH & WELLBEING EVIDENCE BASEThis dataset forms part of the wider CaBA Health and Wellbeing Evidence Base.

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Fast Food Market Size 2025-2029

The fast food market size is forecast to increase by USD 119.6 billion at a CAGR of 3% between 2024 and 2029.

The global fast food market is experiencing steady growth, driven by the increasing online presence of vendors and advancements in delivery technology. Key factors include shifting consumer preferences toward convenience and variety, fueled by busy lifestyles, and the rise of digital platforms and food delivery services that make ordering quick and seamless.
This report provides a practical resource for businesses, detailing market size, growth forecasts through 2028, and key segments like non-vegetarian fast food, which leads due to its broad appeal and diverse offerings. It explores trends such as the growing demand for fast-casual dining options that blend speed with quality and addresses challenges like intense competition from quick-service restaurants, which pressures pricing and innovation. The analysis is tailored for strategic planning, operational adjustments, and customer engagement strategies.
For companies looking to stay competitive in the global fast food market, this report offers clear, data-driven insights into leveraging digital trends and navigating a crowded landscape, ensuring they can adapt to evolving consumer demands and market dynamics.

What will be the Size of the Fast Food Market During the Forecast Period?

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Brand loyalty remains a critical factor, with restaurants investing in advertising strategies and franchise opportunities to expand their reach. The labor market and safety regulations also influence the industry, with a focus on women's employment and industry events addressing workforce development. The industry's innovation is further shaped by the tech industry, with a growing emphasis on menu innovation, waste reduction, and the integration of healthy options. Overall, the market is characterized by its resilience and adaptability, with restaurants and delivery services continually adapting to meet changing consumer demands.

How is this Fast Food Industry segmented?

The fast food industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Non-vegetarian fast food
  Vegetarian fast food


Service Type

  Eat-in
  Take away
  Home delivery
  Others


End-User

  Quick Service Restaurants
  Fast Casual Restaurants
  Others


Geography

  North America

    Mexico
    US


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France


  South America

    Brazil


  Middle East and Africa

By Product Insights

The non-vegetarian fast food segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The non-vegetarian the market experiences growth due to the demand for innovative and appetizing menu items, primarily featuring chicken, fish, seafood, and beef. Consumers seek low-calorie, high-protein options, fueling market expansion. Online ordering systems and nationwide lockdown restrictions have influenced the industry, with take-out facilities and home delivery becoming essential.

E-commerce and franchise business models cater to the convenience-driven working populations, particularly the millennial demographic. The convenience of on-the-go foods and the increasing internet penetration expand the consumer base. The fast-casual segment and novel food applications, such as Italian fillings and flavors, attract health-conscious consumers. Despite labor restraints, the industry continues to generate financial growth and income, with applications in various sectors, including tourism and travel.

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The non-vegetarian fast food segment was valued at USD 424.90 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 35% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The North American market is experiencing significant growth due to several factors. The expanding workforce and increasing urbanization have led to an increase In the number of fast food establishments, catering to the demand for convenient, on-the-go meals. Consumers' busy schedules and the affordability of fast food are driving up sales. The region's population, particularly the millennial demographic, prefers fast foods for their convenience and variety. E-commerce systems and online ordering have become increasingly popular, enabling consumers to order fro

This statistic displays customer satisfaction with five of the United Kingdom's (UK) leading fast food and quick service restaurant chains in the United Kingdom (UK) in 2016, for various attributes. Nando's rated highest of the five for speed of service, with 38 percent of totally satisfied customers.

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UK Foodservice Market Size 2024-2028

The UK foodservice market size is forecast to increase by USD 53.68 billion at a CAGR of 6.64% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by several key trends. The rise of food delivery apps and online ordering platforms has revolutionized the way consumers order and receive meals, leading to increased convenience and flexibility. Virtual restaurants and cloud kitchens along with food delivery services are also gaining traction as cost-effective alternatives to traditional brick-and-mortar establishments, allowing foodservice providers to reach a wider customer base. 
However, the foodservice sector faces challenges, including labor shortages, which can impact operational efficiency and increase costs. To mitigate these challenges, market participants are exploring automation and technology solutions to streamline operations and enhance the customer experience. Overall, the market is expected to continue its growth trajectory, fueled by these trends and the evolving consumer preferences.

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Food technology is revolutionizing the industry with innovations such as sous-vide cooking and data analytics. Kitchen equipment manufacturers are also investing in advanced technology to improve efficiency and reduce food waste. Fast food consumption continues to rise, with fast food remaining a significant segment in the market. Shopping malls are also emerging as key players in the food service industry, offering a diverse range of dining options to consumers.

Market Segmentation

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018 - 2022 for the following segments.

Type

  Fast foodservice
  Cafes and bars
  Restaurants
  Delivery and takeaway
  Others


Application

  Conventional
  Centralized
  Ready prepared
  Assembly serve


Sector

  Commercial
  Non-commercial

By Type Insights

The fast foodservice segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market in the UK encompasses various segments, with fast food being a significant contributor to sales. Fast food establishments, including fast food restaurants and food trucks, provide quick-service dining options that cater to consumers' busy lifestyles. These dining options offer convenience and affordability, making them popular among students, young professionals, and budget-conscious families. Fast food consumption has grown substantially over the years, with trends leaning towards healthier choices such as vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free food, low-calorie options, and sustainable food sources. The foodservice industry is evolving, with advancements in food technology influencing the market. Innovative food preparation methods like sous-vide cooking and automation in kitchen equipment are gaining popularity in full-service restaurants and cafes.

E-commerce and online ordering systems are transforming the way consumers engage with retailers, enabling them to order specialty beverages, vegan meals, and health-conscious choices from the comfort of their homes. Food delivery apps and catering services further expand the reach of foodservice providers. Consumer lifestyles continue to influence the market, with health and wellness becoming increasingly important. Online food ordering platforms and restaurant formats, such as fast-casual concepts, offer diverse culinary options to meet the demands of health-conscious consumers. The integration of data analytics in kitchen technology and fast-food chains' operations allows for improved efficiency and customized offerings. Overall, the market in the UK remains dynamic, with a focus on providing innovative and sustainable food options to cater to diverse consumer preferences.

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The fast foodservice segment was valued at USD 53.41 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Market Dynamics

The food service industry encompasses a wide range of establishments, including child care centers, restaurants, hotels, and retailers. Within the restaurant sector, there are various segments such as full-service restaurants, quick-service restaurants, cafes, and fast food chains. The industry is witnessing significant trends, with e-commerce and online ordering systems gaining popularity. Health and wellness is another key trend, with consumers increasingly seeking plant-based options like vegan food and specialty beverages. The UK foodservice market is a vibrant and diverse industry, encompassing a wide range of establishments and services. From child care centers and educational institutions to healthcare facilities and theme

This statistic presents the results of a survey on the aspirations of fast food restaurant users in the United Kingdom, asking them if they would 'trade up' and use other restaurants if they had the money. According to the survey conducted in May 2015, 47 percent of respondents said they would eat at other food outlets more instead of food food restaurants if they had more money. Younger age groups were also more likely than older age groups to agree.

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Take Out Fried Chicken Market Size 2024-2028

The take out fried chicken market size is forecast to increase by USD 1.69 billion at a CAGR of 4.7% between 2023 and 2028.

The takeout fried chicken market is experiencing significant growth, driven by several key factors. The expansion of global fast-food chains and the increasing popularity of food delivery apps are major contributors to market growth. Consumers are increasingly aware of the health risks associated with frequent consumption of fast food, leading to a demand for healthier options. However, many people still enjoy fried chicken as a treat or convenience food. To address health concerns, the industry is focusing on innovations that improve the nutritional value of fried chicken. For instance, some restaurants are offering grilled or baked chicken alternatives, while others are experimenting with healthier batter recipes. Additionally, there is growing interest In the role of fried chicken in maintaining strong bones and muscles. Amino acids and bone mineral density are essential for muscle tissue growth and bone health. Regular consumption of fried chicken, particularly dark meat, can contribute to these nutrients. 
However, it is important to note that high intake can lead to weight management issues, heart health concerns, and elevated triglyceride levels and blood pressure. Therefore, moderation is key when incorporating fried chicken into a balanced diet. In summary, the market is experiencing growth due to the expansion of fast-food chains and food delivery apps, consumer awareness, and the nutritional benefits of fried chicken. However, it is crucial to consider the potential health risks and maintain moderation when consuming this food.

What will be the Size of the Take Out Fried Chicken Market During the Forecast Period?

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Take out chicken has gained immense popularity in the US market due to its unique preparation methods and diverse health benefits. This article explores the significance of take out chicken, focusing on its preparation methods, nutritional benefits, and consumer preferences. Take out fried chicken is prepared by coating chicken pieces, typically darker cuts such as thighs and drumsticks, in a seasoned batter and deep-frying them to achieve a crispy, golden exterior and juicy, tender interior. The cooking method retains the natural flavors of the chicken while enhancing its texture. Darker cuts of chicken, like thighs and drumsticks, contain more calories, saturated fat, and essential nutrients per serving compared to lighter cuts, such as breasts. These nutrients include protein, which plays a crucial role in building stronger bones and muscles, as well as amino acids that contribute to muscle tissue growth and bone mineral density. Consumption of take out fried chicken can help mitigate the risk of osteoporosis, aid in weight management, and support heart health. The high-quality proteins in take out fried chicken contribute to better mood regulation by increasing tryptophan levels, which in turn boosts serotonin production.
Additionally, the chicken provides essential nutrients like vitamin B12, choline, zinc, iron, and copper. Regular consumption of take out chicken can help manage triglyceride levels, maintain healthy blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Consumer Preferences: Despite the nutritional benefits, it is essential to consider the caloric content and saturated fat levels in take out chicken. Consumers can opt for leaner cuts, such as chicken breasts, or request that the chicken be grilled or baked instead of fried to reduce the caloric intake. By making informed choices, consumers can enjoy the taste and health benefits of take out chicken while maintaining a balanced diet. Take out chicken offers a unique culinary experience and various health benefits due to its preparation methods and nutritional content. By understanding the nutritional benefits and consumer preferences, individuals can make informed decisions when incorporating take out chicken into their diet.

How is this Take Out Fried Chicken Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The take out fried chicken industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Distribution Channel

  Offline
  Online


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  APAC

    China
    Japan


  Europe

    UK


  South America



  Middle East and Africa

By Distribution Channel Insights

The offline segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The offline distribution channel holds the largest market share In the industry In the United States. Consumers can order crispy, golden, and juicy chicken

This statistic presents the results of a survey on fast food outlet and restaurant usage in the United Kingdom as of May 2015. In the three months prior to the survey, 65 percent said they had eaten in a fast food restaurant. McDonald's came out as the most popular chain having been visited by 43 percent of respondents.

Australia’s takeaway food service industry has experienced robust growth in recent years, with annual revenue reaching a 20-year high of over 24.5 billion Australian dollars in 2024. Over the measured period from the year 2005, annual revenue followed a general upward trend, only dipping slightly in 2011 and 2020. Popular food delivery operators in Australia Takeout services have become the quick and convenient answer to Australian consumers’ busy lifestyles. Three main players lead the online food delivery sector. U.S. delivery aggregator Uber Eats dominates Australia’s online food delivery bookings across leading brands, with almost 70 percent of consumers having used the app in the past year, followed by competitors Menulog, the Australian subsidiary of UK-based Just Eat, and DoorDash. Alongside major takeaway apps, the country’s fast food restaurant apps play a major part in the delivery scene, with MyMacca’s and KFC – Order On The Go recording the highest number of weekly active users across popular fast food apps. What fuels Australia’s takeout habits? Partnering with food delivery aggregators has become a fundamental way for restaurants and other food services to expand their customer reach, drive sales, and stay ahead of competitors. Ordering through a third-party app or website remains the most popular food delivery method among Australian consumers, followed by ordering directly through the restaurant’s website or app. When choosing a new restaurant to try out for delivery or pickup, menu pricing and a good selection of food items were the key incentives for more than half of respondents. Recommendations from family members and friends also emerged as a pinnacle factor in Australian consumers’ takeout choices.

Veganism has reached its all-time high peak in 2023, and this trend shows no signs of declining. On the other hand, the consumption of fast food is skyrocketing. Together, these factors are set to propel the vegan fast food market to progress at a CAGR of 4.1% through 2034.

Attributes	Details
Market Size, 2024	US$ 18,943.20 million
Market Size, 2034	US$ 28,198.30 million
Value CAGR (2024 to 2034)	4.1%

Category Wise Insights

Attributes	Details
Product Type	Dairy Alternatives
Market share in 2024	33.2%

Attributes	Details
End Use	Takeout
Market Share in 2024	45.3%

Country wise insights

Countries	CAGR from 2024 to 2034
United States	3.5%
China	3.0%
Germany	4.7%
Japan	2.5%
India	6.9%

This statistic shows the share of snacks eaten (or 'snacking occasions') that were fast food products in the UK and Ireland in 2014, by type. According to the survey conducted for Bord Bia Irish Food Board, 6 percent of snacks eaten by adults in the UK and Ireland are fast food. Of these 6 percent of occasions, chips make up 2 percent. 'Other' products with a less than 1 percent share each include kebabs, noodles, rice, chicken, beef, sausage/pork, fish and a variety (e.g. a snack box).

This statistic shows the results of biennial surveys, illustrating the share of adults that visit fast casual restaurants weekly or more frequently in Great Britain between 2007 and 2017. In 2017, 3 percent of British adults claimed to visit fast casual restaurants weekly or more frequently, while 16 percent said they visited monthly or more frequently. 'Fast casual' is a segment of the food service industry, combining the concepts of fast food and casual dining. This means restaurants do not offer full table service but the food is often of a higher quality. The survey showed that traditional fast food restaurants are still used more frequently in Britain.

In the fast-paced world of hospitality, data is essential for success. Our Global Bar & Restaurant POI database offers in-depth information on the locations of the world's top bars and restaurants, providing businesses with a powerful tool for strategic decision-making. Whether you're a restaurant chain, a marketing agency, or a hospitality researcher, our Global Bar & Restaurant database is a valuable resource for making informed decisions.

What You'll Find in the Database:

-Precise Location Data: Full address, geographic coordinates, and neighborhood details for each establishment.

-Establishment Information: Official name, unique identifier, and type of establishment (bar, restaurant, café, fast-food chain, etc.).

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-Date Established: Historical context for trend analysis.

-Data Confidence Level: A rating indicating the accuracy of the information.

How You Can Use This Database:

-Market Analysis: Assess the distribution and density of bars and restaurants globally.

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In 2022, the fast food chain McDonald's generated nearly 1.6 billion British pounds in turnover in the United Kingdom. This represented an increase of over nine percent from the previous year. Meanwhile, KFC's turnover decreased from 2021 to 2022, dipping below 285 million British pounds.