Smashburger Heading to South Korea in 2011

Fast-casual burger restaurant concept Smashburger (Denver) is partnering with Bridging Culture Worldwide, a professional consulting, strategic planning and cross-cultural management service, to expand its brand into South Korea. The company aims to sign its first multi-unit franchise development agreement in 2011.

The brand’s entry into the South Korean market marks the beginning of a larger international expansion plan that includes other fast-growing economies like the Middle East, Canada and other Asian countries.

“We look forward to beginning our international expansion for Smashburger and know South Korea is a great launch pad for our ‘better burger’ concept in Asia,” says Smashburger chairman and ceo David Prokupek.

Smashburger, developed and owned by private equity and concept-development firm Consumer Capital Partners (CCP), plans to open more than 100 stores by the end of the year. It has sold franchise and joint venture agreements that will bring its store total to more than 400 locations over the next five years.