If Bonchon has not specified a source of supply for an item, what must I ensure when purchasing that item for my Bonchon Restaurant?

According to Bonchon's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if Bonchon has not specified a source of supply for an item needed for your restaurant, you are allowed to purchase that item from any source. However, the items purchased must strictly adhere to any specifications that Bonchon has issued in its manuals or other written communications. It is critical to obtain Bonchon's advance written consent before deviating from these specifications in any way.

This requirement ensures that even when franchisees have some flexibility in sourcing, the quality and standards of the Bonchon brand are maintained. Franchisees need to be diligent in understanding and adhering to the specifications provided by Bonchon to avoid any potential breaches of the franchise agreement. This also allows Bonchon to maintain uniformity across all its locations, which is a key aspect of brand consistency in the franchise industry.

For a prospective Bonchon franchisee, this means carefully reviewing the manuals and any written notices from Bonchon to understand the required specifications for various items. If there is any doubt about whether a particular product meets the specifications, it is essential to seek written consent from Bonchon before purchasing it. Failure to comply with these specifications could lead to penalties or other enforcement actions by Bonchon.