In the U.K. as in America, health and lifestyle restaurant and fast casual concepts are becoming increasingly popular. The demand for innovation is high in both countries as the customer is mainly concerned with convenience, customization and movability. The fast casual segment in the UK had a year-over-year sales growth of 8.3% in 2013, and a five-year sales growth of 12.6% according to Technomic’s Top 100 U.K. Chain Restaurant Report.

Some fast casual concepts in the USA also operate in the U.K. such as Nando’s, the portuguese grilled chicken piri piri concept, and Pret A Manger, the healthy sandwich chain who is also currently the second largest fast casual operator in the U.K. Pret’s customers are very loyal because they appreciate the healthy recipes and preservative-free ingredients that are sourced fresh daily. In 2013, the 270 Pret A Manger stores generated £391 million. Of the Top 100, the fastest growing U.K. fast casual chain is Patisserie Valerie. The patisserie’s units grew by 24% in 2013 and sales increased 25% to £53 million. The concept is a patisserie/café that is known for their handmade celebration cakes, sandwiches, pastries and gelato. The design differs from restaurant to restaurant but the general decor theme is influenced by the 1950’s and some outposts have outdoor seating available.

A few American chains are considering expanding their unit counts in the U.K. such as Shake Shack, Smashburger and Five Guys Burgers and Fries; all budget chains whose main competitor in the U.K. would be Gourmet Burger Kitchen. The concept consists of made-to-order gourmet hamburgers that use only high quality ingredients. Total sales in 2013 for Gourmet Burger Kitchen were at  £46 million. Over the next years Technomic predicts that sales and unit growth for the segment will continue to grow and will perhaps promote an implementation of more global foods and advanced technologies.

To read more about the fast casual segment in the U.K. and America, click here