From whom must a Bonchon franchisee purchase furniture and fixtures?

According to Bonchon's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to purchase furniture and fixtures from a designated third-party supplier. This includes items such as tables, chairs, and décor for Dine-In, Fast Casual, or Delivery and Carry Out restaurants. The FDD specifies that the restaurants can seat anywhere from zero customers (for a Delivery and Carry Out Restaurant or a Remote Kitchen) to a maximum of 75 customers (for a Dine-In Restaurant). However, if a franchisee operates a Remote Kitchen Restaurant, they are not required to purchase any furniture or fixtures.

This requirement ensures brand consistency across all Bonchon locations, as the franchisor maintains control over the aesthetic and customer experience. By mandating a specific supplier, Bonchon can ensure that the furniture and fixtures meet their standards for quality, design, and durability. This can be beneficial for franchisees as it simplifies the procurement process and potentially offers access to negotiated pricing with the approved supplier.

However, franchisees should be aware that this requirement limits their ability to shop around for potentially lower prices or alternative designs. It is important to factor in the cost of furniture and fixtures from the designated supplier when evaluating the overall investment required to open a Bonchon franchise. Franchisees should consult the Bonchon manuals for the specific designated supplier to understand the available options and associated costs.

Prospective franchisees should also inquire about the process for selecting and approving the third-party supplier, as well as any potential rebates or incentives that Bonchon may receive from the supplier. Understanding these details can help franchisees make informed decisions about their investment and ensure they are comfortable with the franchisor's control over this aspect of the business.