Santa Ana-based Flame Broiler will restart its franchise program after a five-year hiatus.
The Korean-inspired rice bowl chain said it took a break to grow Flame Broiler’s leadership team and expand the company’ s headquarters. Flame Broiler, founded by Young Lee, also acquired 13 locations from existing franchisees during that time.
Chief Operating Officer Christian Lee and Chief Technology and Marketing Officer Daniel Lee, sons of the founder who were appointed to the chain’s executive team last year, also added the titles of President and Chief Innovation Officer, respectively.
“We eagerly look forward to the leadership of Christian and Daniel Lee as we continue to expand our family and embrace change,” Founder and Chief Executive Lee said in a statement.
“The re-launch of franchising marks a significant milestone for Flame Broiler, opening up new opportunities for growth and innovation,” he said.
Flame Broiler counts around 165 U.S. locations, with more than 60 in Orange County, and reported $86 million in systemwide sales for 2022.
