Bonchon

About Bonchon

Bonchon was established in Busan, South Korea, in 2002 by Jinduk Seo. Its name means “my hometown”, reflecting its Korean roots. The brand is known for made-to-order, crispy Korean fried chicken coated in sauces produced in South Korea, alongside Asian fusion dishes.

After opening in New York City in 2006, Bonchon expanded across the United States and international markets, growing to more than 480 restaurants worldwide. Its formats range from full-service and fast-casual restaurants to smaller takeaway and delivery sites.

In 2023, Bonchon began seeking an experienced UK master franchise partner to establish a nationwide network. The opportunity targets well-funded hospitality groups with multi-site development capabilities. Master franchise and regional agreements may include sub-franchising rights, subject to agreed terms. Partners can access management training, restaurant development assistance, marketing guidance and ongoing operational support.

Why franchise with Bonchon

• ✓Established Korean fried chicken brand founded in 2002, with a global network of over 480 restaurants.
• ✓Signature made-to-order Korean fried chicken features distinctive sauces produced in South Korea.
• ✓Flexible restaurant formats include full-service dining, fast-casual sites and delivery-led outlets.
• ✓UK master franchise and regional development opportunities offer scope to build a nationwide network.
• ✓Franchise support includes three weeks of management training, property guidance and restaurant development.
• ✓Partners receive marketing resources and ongoing operational support, with potential sub-franchising rights.

Investment breakdown

What's expected of a franchisee

Property requirements

Bonchon offers three restaurant formats: full-service sites of approximately 2,200-3,000 sq ft, fast-casual sites of 1,600-2,500 sq ft and delivery or takeaway units of 800-1,500 sq ft. Suitable locations include high streets, shopping centres and urban retail areas with strong demand. Premises need commercial kitchens, ventilation, extraction, refrigeration and storage. Bonchon provides property and construction guidance, with all proposed sites subject to approval.

Training and support

Bonchon provides a three-week management training programme covering restaurant operations, food preparation, quality, service and brand standards. Franchise partners receive property and construction guidance, approved store design support and local marketing resources. Established recipes, signature sauces and operating systems help maintain consistency. An experienced support team provides ongoing operational guidance to help partners manage performance and uphold brand standards.

Operational requirements

Bonchon franchisees must follow approved recipes, cooking methods, supplier arrangements and brand standards. Daily duties include managing food quality, hygiene, staff, stock, finances and customer service. Partners must take part in training, marketing and operational reviews. UK master franchise and regional partners are expected to open five company-operated restaurants within two years; sub-franchising may be available from year three, subject to contract terms.

Experience required

Bonchon seeks experienced, well-funded hospitality groups and multi-site operators with proven restaurant or franchise management expertise. Applicants need strong leadership, commercial awareness, property development skills and the resources to fund restaurant openings and working capital. Partners should be capable of opening five company-operated restaurants within two years. Regional opportunities may involve commitments of 15 or more sites, alongside long-term UK brand development.

Territory availability

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