Fast food chain Burger King is set to expand its presence in the UK by opening 30 new locations annually as part of a swift growth strategy. With a current count of 574 restaurants in the UK, the company aims to kick off this expansion next year, prioritizing self-operated sites over franchise-operated ones.
Despite facing economic challenges, Burger King reported strong sales performance, attributing the success to various operational improvements and a slowdown in inflation. However, the company acknowledged the impact of financial pressures on consumers and increased costs associated with the previous year’s Budget.
Alasdair Murdoch, CEO of Burger King UK, highlighted the ongoing challenges in the industry, including elevated labor costs due to minimum wage hikes. In a strategic move, Burger King recently collaborated with renowned chef Gordon Ramsay to introduce an exclusive £11 wagyu burger, further diversifying its menu offerings.
In 2025, Burger King achieved significant milestones, surpassing $1 billion (£748 million) in system-wide sales in the UK. The company also expanded its franchise rights to the Republic of Ireland for the first time, signaling further growth opportunities. Financially, Burger King UK reported a 7% revenue increase to £408.3 million in 2024, with underlying profits climbing by 12% to £26 million through effective 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 EBITDA through disciplined cost controls and operational focus.
