Leading fried chicken brand Bonchon has partnered with specialist property advisor Christie & Co to bring its concept to the UK.
Founded in Busan, South Korea in 2002 and established in New York City in 2006, Bonchon currently has over 420 worldwide stores in operation, with more than 140 in the USA.
Bonchon, which also has sites in France, the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietna, is seeking a UK master franchisee to roll out the brand nationally.
In the US, same-store sales were up 5% in 2022 – the fifth consecutive year of same-store sales growth – with average unit volumes at $1.7m.
Bonchon specialises in Korean comfort food, serving wings, drumsticks, and boneless wings, along with a range of Asian fusion cuisine.
The chicken is handmade-to-order, hand-brushed, and double-fried, and finished with signature sauces made in South Korea.
Bonchon is looking to operate an initial 15 equity stores in five years in 1,500-2,500 sq ft units, either fast casual or full dining models with a bar. It operates traditional sit-down restaurant sites in the US.
Simon Chaplin, senior director – Pubs, Restaurants & Franchise at Christie & Co, commented: “We are excited to be working with Bonchon to bring their distinctive ’crunch’ to the UK. Chicken-led QSR brands are performing well throughout the UK and we see Bonchon as a welcome addition to the landscape. Once again the power of an international partner with over 420 stores and dedicated experts to assist will help the franchisee develop a great business over the coming years.”
