The quarterly stats reveal that operators across the UK hospitality market are increasingly winning share through experience-led formats, tech integration and rapid-format innovation. While overall performance remains uneven, the latest ODI findings show that growth is being concentrated among operators that create stronger reasons to visit, whether through premiumisation, entertainment, convenience or digitally enabled service, rather than those relying on scale alone.
Restaurant turnover is growing modestly (+0.8%) but fine dining is outperforming, driven by resilient consumer demand. Brands like Dishoom and Wagamama have capitalised on premium positioning and versatile all-day offering, appealing to younger consumers and those prioritising atmosphere and occasion over price. In a cautious economy, experience has become a critical differentiator, boosting both visit frequency and spend as consumers become more discerning about where they dine.
Meanwhile, pubs and bars (+2.0%) are finding growth by reinventing traditional formats into immersive destinations. Operators are increasingly creating multi-mission spaces (combining food, drink and entertainment) to maximise dwell time and spend. Nightlife concepts from Hard Rock and the rise of competitive socialising venues including Flight Club and NQ64 demonstrate how experiential positioning is reshaping consumer expectations, particularly as more traditional formats face sustained pressure.
Across all channels, the data indicates that success is being driven by agility. The strongest performers are adapting quickly through smaller high-footfall footprints, loyalty ecosystems, tech integration, and hybrid concepts that flex to different occasions throughout the day.