Next Phase featured on BBC Breakfast discussing the growth of UK food halls
On New Year’s Eve, Next Phase was featured on BBC Breakfast, with our research into the UK food hall sector used to inform a national discussion on one of the few areas of growth within hospitality. Our business partner Simon Anderson appeared live on the programme from Altrincham Market Hall at 6.30am, sharing insight from the data and wider experience across the sector.
At a time when hospitality and high streets continue to face significant challenges, food halls are emerging as a rare positive story. According to our Growth 2025 research, the number of food halls operating in the UK increased from 73 to 94 over the past year, representing growth of 26 per cent. Across all multi vendor operations, the total now stands at 139, up 22 per cent on 2024. Despite ongoing pressures across the industry, only one food hall closure was recorded during the same period.
The data highlights why food halls are proving more resilient than many traditional hospitality formats. Well curated tenant mixes, flexible operating models and shared social spaces are helping independent businesses trade strongly while bringing consistent footfall back into town and city centres. When delivered at the right scale and with a clear operational strategy, food halls continue to support regeneration, activate underused buildings and create places people want to spend time in.
The BBC feature reflected this evidence-led view, focusing on performance rather than hype. While food halls are not a solution to every challenge facing hospitality, they remain one of the most dependable tools available for revitalising places and supporting independent operators.
Looking ahead, 2026 is already shaping up to be a strong year for markets and food halls, with a growing pipeline of projects and a more mature approach to delivery focused on long-term commercial viability and placemaking.
If you are a landlord, local authority, operator or investor considering a food hall or market-led project, the team at Next Phase is always happy to share insight, data and practical experience.
