Burger King, a prominent fast-food chain, has revealed its ambitious strategy to expand rapidly in the UK by opening 30 new locations annually. Currently operating 574 restaurants in the country, the company aims to kick off this expansion plan next year, focusing on self-operated sites rather than franchise-run outlets.
This announcement follows Burger King’s strong sales performance amid what it described as a challenging economic environment. The company’s recent financial results show positive trends, with notable improvements seen across its business operations due to a slowdown in inflation. However, the UK hospitality sector has faced pressures from customer financial constraints and cost escalations related to the previous year’s Budget.
Alasdair Murdoch, Burger King UK’s CEO, commented on the situation, noting that while food and utility costs inflation has stabilized, the industry grapples with subdued consumer sentiment and rising labor expenses following substantial hikes in minimum wages.
In a partnership move earlier this year, Burger King collaborated with celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay to introduce an £11 wagyu burger. The company reported robust trading in 2025, surpassing $1 billion in system-wide sales in the UK. Furthermore, the business extended its franchise rights to the Republic of Ireland for the first time, paving the way for further growth opportunities.
Financially, Burger King disclosed that its revenues climbed by 7% to £408.3 million in 2024, with underlying profits increasing by 12% to £26 million, driven by disciplined cost management practices. Mr. Murdoch expressed satisfaction with the company’s solid performance and strategic advancements in 2024, emphasizing revenue growth, positive like-for-like sales, and enhanced underlying EBITDA through prudent cost controls and operational focus.