That’s according to a report from leading research agency MCA Insight, which found that branded restaurant operators are growing their businesses at a time when the overall restaurant market is seeing turnover decline.
Launched last month, MCA’s UK Restaurant Market Report 2018 was complied through online consumer surveys, analysis of MCA’s market sizing and company tracking databases and assorted operator-specific research.
The report examines the key trends affecting the market, the competitive landscape, the changing needs of consumers and the outlook for future development.
The value of the UK restaurant market is £19.4bn and consists of 31,584 outlets. Branded restaurants have continued to grow their share of this and now account for 30% of total sales and 16% of overall outlets.
However, despite growth in share, a reliance on promotions is dampening spend at dinner.
MCA Insight defines branded restaurants as establishments with consistent branding and/or menus with five or more outlets, or two or more with substantial expansion plans.
Brands leading the way in terms of expansion include The Ivy Grills & Brasseries, Shoryu Ramen and M&B’s Miller & Carter brand.
Larger, more established brands that are enjoying significant turnover growth include Franco Manca (23%). Côte (9%) Nando’s (8%), Wagamama (8%) and Bill’s (6%). Turnover estimates are based on operator reported sales, competitor benchmarks where applicable and outlet growth rates.
“Competition across branded restaurants is fierce and there have been a number of casualties in the last year. However, specialist concepts among small and medium brands are driving growth for the sector,” says MCA director of insight Steve Gotham.
“Furthermore, promotional use has increased strongly at branded restaurants with 28.6% of visits now involving the use of a promotion, a rise of 2.5% points over the previous year. Availability of vouchers and promotional offers has increased its importance for consumers eating out in branded restaurants.”
For more information and to find out how you can access the MCA Restaurant Market Report 2018, please visit www.mca-insight.com.