What is a Bonchon franchisee's immediate obligation upon learning of a non-System wide Crisis Management Event at their restaurant?

According to Bonchon's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a non-System wide Crisis Management Event occurs at a franchisee's restaurant, the franchisee must immediately inform Bonchon by telephone or email, or as otherwise instructed in the Manual, upon becoming aware of the event.

This requirement ensures that Bonchon is promptly notified of any situation that could potentially harm the brand's reputation, its customers, or its employees. By mandating immediate notification, Bonchon aims to quickly assess the situation and take appropriate action to mitigate any negative impacts. This is a common practice in franchising, as franchisors need to maintain brand consistency and protect their trademarks.

The FDD also defines a "Crisis Management Event" as any event or incident that occurs at or impacts a Bonchon Restaurant that has or may cause real or perceived harm or injury to members or employees, such as equipment malfunction, food contamination or other food safety issue, matters affecting the health, safety or well-being of any member, employee or the public at the Restaurant, epidemics, pandemics or other contagious diseases, natural disasters, criminal or terrorist acts, shootings, or any other circumstances which may have the actual or potential ability to damage the System, the Proprietary Marks, or the image or reputation of Bonchon or its affiliates. It also includes events that result in any governmental action, mandate, advisory opinion, or declaration of emergency that may impact or require the suspension, termination, or modification of operations at the franchisee's Bonchon Restaurant.

By immediately reporting such events, franchisees enable Bonchon to provide guidance, support, and resources to manage the crisis effectively. This collaborative approach helps to minimize potential damage and ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved. Franchisees should familiarize themselves with the specific notification procedures outlined in the Bonchon manual to ensure compliance with this critical requirement.