Top 6 Fast Food Franchises in the UK

If running a fast food business in the UK interests you, you’ll be pleased to hear that while there’s huge competition in this thriving sector of food service, there’s also a large amount of corresponding demand. The takeaway and fast food restaurant market size in the UK is £19 billion [IBISWorld], and you could capitalise massively by joining this market - one of the many advantages of running a fast food franchise.

What is a fast food business?

A fast food delivery franchise, which is also referred to as a quick service restaurant (or a QSR), is a type of restaurant/food service business that sells customers speedy food with little to no table service. If you’re interested in starting your own, you’ll be doing the following things on a regular basis during your daily life as the owner of a fast food franchise:

• Decision-making, multi-tasking and project management
• Balancing the books and managing the franchise’s finances
• Managing the franchise’s day-to-day operations
• Customer service, communication and negotiation
• Employee hiring, training and management
• Quality control and inventory management

The 6 best fast food franchises in the UK

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>> Read more:

• Top 7 fast food franchises
• 8 Tips for Building a Business Plan for a Successful Sandwich Franchise
• Top 4 Burger Franchises in the UK
• The Yummy Truth About Running a Fast Food Franchise
• American Burger: How To Start Your Own American Burger Restaurant

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1. McDonald’s

Arguably the most recognised fast food brand worldwide, McDonald’s has a strong presence in the UK with over 1,300 outlets. The franchise offers extensive training, marketing support, and a well-oiled operational system. With a focus on quality, consistency and innovation, it remains a solid choice for serious investors.

2. Subway

As the world’s largest submarine sandwich chain, Subway continues to attract health-conscious customers with its customisable menu and efficient service. It’s one of the most accessible franchise opportunities in terms of investment level, making it a favourite among those seeking low-cost fast food franchise opportunities in the UK.

3. Domino’s Pizza

Domino’s Pizza has become synonymous with fast, hot, and reliable pizza delivery. With tech-driven operations and a powerful brand, Domino’s offers franchisees a scalable model and support network. Its high delivery demand makes it a smart choice for urban and suburban territories alike.

4. KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken)

A mainstay in the British fast food scene, KFC offers a globally trusted brand built on quality chicken recipes. With over 900 stores in the UK, it provides strong training, marketing, and operational frameworks. It’s ideal for those who want to tap into the high-growth quick service restaurant (QSR) market.

5. Greggs

Originally a bakery, Greggs has evolved into a UK fast food staple, beloved for its sausage rolls, pasties and breakfast deals. With strong brand loyalty and strategic locations, Greggs offers a franchise model that appeals to those interested in food-on-the-go and takeaway business formats.

6. Noodle Sector Franchises

The UK’s noodle franchise sector is gaining momentum as demand rises for Asian-inspired quick meals. Franchises in this space offer an exciting alternative to traditional fast food, appealing to health-conscious and adventurous diners. Explore available options in the UK noodle franchise market and find your perfect match.

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Start a franchise in the fast food industry today

If you’re interested in running your own fast food franchise, this article has hopefully given you the inspiration you need to find the right opportunity - one that meets your needs AND sparks your imagination. If you’d like to continue your research into the wider world of food service, stay on Point Franchise and learn more about takeaway franchise opportunities, from the top four food takeaway sector trends of 2021 to how to open a takeaway franchise in the UK.