US Korean fried chicken brand Bonchon flies to the UK

The brand is currently in search of a master franchisee.

US Korean fried chicken brand Bonchon has partnered with specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co to bring its fast-expanding concept to the UK. 

Christie & Co will be seeking an experienced hospitality entrepreneur to become the UK master franchisee and roll out the brand nationally.

According to a press release, the expansion is based on its performance in the last few years. In 2022, Bonchon reported same-store sales in the USA climbing by 5%, the fifth consecutive year of same-store sales growth, and average unit volumes were US $1.7mn.

Bonchon, which means ‘my hometown’ in Korean, was founded in Busan, South Korea in 2002 by Jinduk Seo. The brand currently has over 420 worldwide stores in operation, with 140 plus in the USA and international sites located in the Philippines, Thailand, France, Singapore, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam. 

“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,” Simon Chaplin, Senior Director – Pubs, Restaurants & Franchise at Christie & Co said.