Fast food behemoth Burger King has revealed intentions to launch 30 new establishments annually in the UK as part of an extensive growth strategy. With 574 existing restaurants in the UK, the chain disclosed plans to kick off the expansion from next year, prioritizing locations that will be operated directly rather than through franchisees.
The decision comes as the company reported strong sales despite facing what it described as a challenging economic environment. In its latest financial results, Burger King noted continued progress across its operations this year, indicating a deceleration in inflation. However, it pointed out that financial strain on consumers and cost escalations related to last year’s Budget have impacted the hospitality industry in the UK.
Alasdair Murdoch, Burger King UK’s CEO, acknowledged the return of food and utility cost inflation to normal levels but highlighted enduring challenges such as subdued consumer sentiment and mounting labor expenses following substantial hikes in the national minimum wage and national living wage.
Earlier this year, Burger King collaborated with renowned chef Gordon Ramsay to introduce an £11 wagyu burger. The company reported robust trading in 2025, surpassing $1 billion (£748 million) in system-wide sales in the UK. Additionally, Burger King UK secured an agreement to extend its franchise rights to the Republic of Ireland for the first time, opening up new avenues for growth.
The company’s financial report for the previous year showed a 7% revenue increase to £408.3 million in 2024, with underlying profits climbing by 12% to £26 million, attributed to stringent cost management practices. Mr. Murdoch expressed satisfaction with the solid performance and strategic advancements achieved by Burger King UK in 2024, emphasizing revenue growth, positive like-for-like sales, and enhanced EBITDA through disciplined cost controls and operational efficiency.