The fast food industry in the UK continues to thrive, fuelled by consumer demand for convenience, affordability, and variety. While global giants such as McDonald’s or KFC dominate the sector, they also require substantial financial investment that can be out of reach for many aspiring entrepreneurs. Fortunately, there are several smaller but rapidly growing fast food franchises in the UK that offer much lower entry costs while still providing strong brand support and market potential. Below, we look at some of the cheapest fast food franchises to open in the UK, each offering a distinct identity and an accessible route into the industry.
Dum Dum Donutterie Franchise
Dum Dum Donutterie is a unique bakery-style franchise that specialises in handmade, baked doughnuts and croissant-doughnut hybrids. Known for its creative flavours and premium approach to an everyday favourite, the brand has built a loyal following. With its relatively low start-up costs compared to large bakery chains, it presents a tempting option for entrepreneurs looking to break into the fast food and dessert sector with a niche product.
Churroslocos Franchise
Churroslocos has tapped into the growing popularity of street food in the UK. Specialising in freshly made churros served with a variety of dips and toppings, it offers a fun and memorable customer experience. The franchise model is flexible, allowing outlets to operate from compact kiosks or mobile units, which keeps initial costs low. For those seeking an affordable entry point into the fast food scene with a street food twist, Churroslocos is a strong contender.
Burg Franchise
Burg is a modern burger franchise that has positioned itself as a stylish yet affordable alternative to mainstream burger chains. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and straightforward menus, Burg appeals to both the casual dining and takeaway markets. Start-up costs are significantly lower than international burger brands, making it an attractive choice for first-time franchisees who want to join a growing segment of the market without heavy financial commitments.
The Chick Franchise
The Chick Franchise focuses on one of the UK’s most popular fast food categories: fried chicken. Combining freshly prepared chicken dishes with a contemporary brand image, The Chick stands out in an industry dominated by larger players. It offers an accessible franchise package with manageable costs, appealing to entrepreneurs who want to take advantage of Britain’s love for chicken without the large-scale investment typically required by global chains.
Amigos Burger and Shakes Franchise
Amigos Burger and Shakes has become well known for its vibrant take on American-inspired fast food, offering gourmet-style burgers, loaded fries, and indulgent milkshakes. The brand has expanded quickly, particularly in urban areas, thanks to its strong social media presence and appeal to younger demographics. Its franchise model is designed to be affordable, giving ambitious entrepreneurs the chance to run a trendy burger outlet at a fraction of the cost of big-name competitors.
The Athenian Franchise
The Athenian has successfully brought authentic Greek street food to the UK market. Specialising in souvlaki and gyros, the brand has capitalised on the growing appetite for Mediterranean cuisine. With flexible operating models ranging from market stalls to small takeaway outlets, The Athenian franchise offers a cost-effective way to enter the fast food industry with a product that is both healthy and distinctive.
Spitting Pig Franchise
Spitting Pig offers something different from the typical fast food franchise by focusing on hog roast catering. While it is not a traditional high street outlet, the brand thrives in events, festivals, and private catering, where demand for large-scale, high-quality food service is strong. Its relatively low overheads and flexible business model make it an affordable option for entrepreneurs seeking to combine catering with the fast food industry in a unique way.
Summary
For aspiring business owners in the UK, the dream of running a fast food franchise does not have to come with overwhelming costs. Brands such as Dum Dum Donutterie, Churroslocos, and Burg provide affordable routes into popular markets, while options like The Athenian and Spitting Pig allow entrepreneurs to stand out with distinctive offerings. By focusing on lower investment requirements, these franchises give ambitious individuals the chance to enter the fast food industry with manageable financial risk, while still benefiting from the support and recognition of an established brand. Choosing the right franchise ultimately depends on personal interests, target market, and long-term goals, but each of the brands highlighted here shows that success in the fast food sector is not limited to the biggest names.
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