Korean restaurant brand Bonchon unveils UK expansion plans
Bonchon is offering its future UK franchisee partner the opportunity to become the master franchisee for the UK or suitable regions, with an option to sub-franchise after two years of operations
International Korean fried chicken brand Bonchon has announced its plans to bring its fast-growing concept to the UK.
Following the launch of its second site in Paris, where a third is already in the pipeline, Bonchon is seeking experienced hospitality entrepreneurs to become master franchisees in the UK and roll out the brand nationally.
Founded in 2002 by Jinduk Seo in Busan, South Korea, and established in New York City in 2006, Bonchon, which translates to ‘my hometown’ in Korean, has become a “household name”.
Bonchon currently has more than 455 stores in operation worldwide, with more than 140 in the USA and international sites located across the Philippines, Thailand, France, Singapore, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam.
Bonchon is known for serving handmade-to-order chicken finished with signature sauces made in South Korea. Additionally, each piece of Bonchon chicken is hand-brushed and double-fried.
Alongside its chicken wings, drumsticks, and boneless wings, Bonchon also offers a selection of Asian fusion cuisine.
Its traditional sit-down restaurant sites provide a casual dining experience, and most restaurants also offer take-out and delivery services which now account for 49% of sales.
Bonchon is offering its future UK franchisee partner the opportunity to become the master franchisee for the UK or suitable regions, with an option to sub-franchise after two years of operations.
Growth will be supported by the Korea-based team with design, specification, marketing, branding, training, menu research and development, and operations.
Simon Chaplin, senior director – Pubs, Restaurants and Franchise at Christie and Co, said: “We started working with Bonchon last year to bring their distinctive ‘crunch’ to the UK. Having visited both sites in Paris, it is clear that Bonchon is a welcome addition to the landscape.
“There is no doubt that chicken-led QSR brands are performing well throughout the UK, and the power of an international partner with over 455 stores and the support of dedicated experts will help the franchisee develop a valuable business over the coming years.”