Cupbop, a rising Korean BBQ fast-casual franchise, proudly announces that their Vice President of Franchise Development, Mike Penn, has launched a new single-unit location in Cedar City.
Salt Lake City, UT (RestaurantNews.com) Cupbop, known for being the first fast-casual Korean Barbeque in a cup concept across the nation, is thrilled to share the news of Mike Penn’s venture into franchising by launching his own Cupbop store in Cedar City. Situated at 1322 S Providence Center Dr, Suite C, the new establishment welcomed customers in Q4 of 2024. Previously, Cupbop had solely collaborated with development groups and multi-unit operators, making Penn the brand’s debut individual franchisee. While Cupbop has not yet unveiled plans to accept single unit franchisees, an exception was made for Penn due to his exceptional dedication and experience in the industry.
Penn’s extensive 25-year career in the restaurant sector brings invaluable knowledge and insight to his new role. Following college, he founded his first restaurant and has since remained deeply rooted in the food industry. Initially exploring digital marketing briefly, his passion for food ultimately led him back to the culinary world. Upon expressing interest in starting his own Cupbop location prior to the franchise program’s launch, Penn’s fervor and expertise led to his recruitment as Director of Training and Construction, progressing swiftly to Director of Operations, and currently, Vice President of Franchise Development. Joining Cupbop when they operated 14 locations, he played a pivotal role in their growth to over 50 locations, refining training and construction processes and implementing innovative efficiency measures.
“Becoming Cupbop’s first single-unit franchisee in Cedar City is a tremendous honor and source of excitement,” remarked Penn. “Since my initial encounter with the brand, I felt compelled to be part of their expansion. Cupbop’s distinctiveness is unmistakable, and our team’s enthusiasm shines through in everything we do. The brand’s ethos allows me to engage meaningfully with our customers, and it brings me immense joy to brighten people’s days through my business.”
Introduced to Cupbop at a Utah Jazz game, Penn’s admiration for the brand’s unique menu and hospitality ignited. He observed the company’s engaging social media presence and experienced firsthand their commitment to fun, both internally and with customers. In his newly established Cedar City location,
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