Brand new data from Lumina Intelligence’s Operator Data Index has revealed that within the overall hospitality market, the UK restaurant sector valued £18.1bn in 2022.

The data shows branded restaurants faired stronger than independents, with outlet growth of +2.3% in 2022 and a value of £5.9bn –95% of its 2019 value.

A closer look revealed that the top 10 branded restaurants by outlets saw combined outlet decline of -0.8% in 2022, a more modest decline from losses of -5.1% in 2021,

The segment’s growth was being driven by smaller operators like Slim Chickens, which was the fastest growing restaurant brand in 2022 by percentage growth.

(source: Lumina Intelligence, image: Pizza Express)