Top 100 restaurant groups saw profits jump 18% to £365m in 2024

Profits at the UK’s 100 largest restaurant groups have risen 18% in the past year to £365m, according to new figures from accountancy group UHY Hacker Young.

Turnover across the top 100 groups increased by 19% to £12.9bn in 2025, up from £10.8bn the previous year. The report attributes the growth to post-pandemic cost-cutting measures and increased use of technology.

It comes as operators are said to have been streamlining branch networks and cutting staff numbers, with many investing in self-service kiosks, mobile apps and delivery partnerships to drive efficiency and maintain margins.

Measures contributing to improved performance include raising menu prices, forming delivery partnerships with platforms such as Deliveroo and Just Eat, and adopting sales forecasting tools to manage stock and reduce waste.

The fast food and “fast casual” segments saw the fastest growth, with burger and steakhouse chains such as Flat Iron Steak reporting strong increases in turnover.

Private equity investment is also returning to some areas, including new pizza ventures, the report notes. However, rising staff costs remain a concern. 

Martin Jones, partner at UHY Hacker Young, said: “After years of challenges and despite an extremely tough trading environment the UK’s restaurant sector is showing a strong turnaround in profitability.

“Whilst many chains are still suffering from depressed margins and weak demand there is enough innovation and expansion going in the top 100 to deliver better results. Many operators have adapted quickly, embracing new technologies and finding innovative ways to reach customers and keep them coming back.”

He added: “There are obvious clouds on the horizon – a massive increase in employers’ national insurance and a continued ramping up of the minimum wage creates a major threat.”