Korean fried chicken franchise puts a focus on tech updates.
By Andrew Carlo
Bonchon, which specializes in Korean fried chicken, is off to a hot start this year.
Along with recent openings in Florida, Iowa, and Virginia, the franchise reached a milestone after opening its 150th U.S. location in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Bonchon says it operates more than 450 locations globally.
“This year is off to an exciting start with new store openings and franchise agreements, bringing Bonchon’s craveable Korean fried chicken to even more guests,” says Bonchon CEO Suzie Tsai. “We’re accelerating successful initiatives from 2024 for the good of our franchise family and customers.”
Catering has been part of the franchise’s recipe for success and is a focal point for growth this year. The franchise said that catering spiked by 54% in 2024 from 2023. This was partly due the onboarding of new technology and menu updates.
The restaurant brand said that technology adoption will increase with many existing and new stores introducing kiosks. Through a partnership with Bite, a provider of intelligent kiosk solutions for fast-casual and quick-service restaurants, Bonchon plans to give customers a user-friendly, intuitive ordering experience.
In tests, Bonchon said that kiosk orders resulted in higher check totals and more satisfied guest experiences. According to Bite, its cutting-edge, customizable software is powered by patented artificial intelligence. The end result is a streamlined ordering and payment process.
Technology, a distinctive menu, and flexible store formats, are some of the tools being used by Bonchon to support franchisees. In another example of Bonchon growth strategy, the company said that Bonchon International R&D Chef Jae Park is relocating to the company’s Dallas headquarters in a move designed to increase the brand’s culinary leadership attention on the U.S. market.
Sherry Askander and Sam Takla, co-franchisees who are also long-time fans of the brand, brought Bonchon to Tampa in September 2024. The duo’s long-term plan is to open additional Tampa restaurants this year and said that their experience reflects Bonchon’s growth trends.
“We believe Bonchon is above any other restaurant in taste, quality, and execution, and are glad we could share it with our community,” says Askander. “Our neighbors love the food and experience, and catering is a significant part of our business already.”
Last year saw the opening of new locations in California, Florida, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Georgia, Colorado, New York, Alabama, and New Jersey.
To learn more about franchise opportunities, visit franchising.bonchon.com.
