Doc Popcorn, the only fresh-popped, all-natural flavored popcorn franchisor on the planet, announced that it has signed a franchise agreement with Bruce and Ellen Burr to open a location in Vernon Hills, Illinois. The new Doc Popcorn will be the brand’s first location to open in Illinois.
“We are very excited to introduce this delicious, all-natural, better-for-you snack to the Chicagoland area,” says Bruce Burr, who recently owned and operated his own commercial laundry business for 28 years. “We can’t wait to open our new business and see people’s faces when they taste Doc Popcorn. Nothing compares to it.”
Bruce and Ellen reside in nearby Long Grove, Illinois. Ellen works in customer service at an animal hospital and will handle a variety of responsibilities for their Doc Popcorn business. Future plans include growing the brand in the area with two additional locations in the coming years, which someday their two sons may run.
Like the Burrs, other individuals with long track records of professional success are becoming business owners with Doc Popcorn. The concept has attracted entrepreneurs and corporate professionals alike from the medical, financial services, consulting, technology, and automotive industries among others. Since launching its franchise strategy, Doc Popcorn has awarded franchise agreements in 19 states and Washington D.C.
Doc Popcorn’s expansion into Illinois is part of the company’s rapid U.S. growth. The brand’s franchising program launched in mid-2009, and amid the challenging U.S. economic landscape the company has awarded more than 30 franchise agreements in the following states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Washington D.C.
“Chicago and its surrounding suburbs are a prime area for growth through local franchise ownership,” says Rob Israel, CEO and co-founder of Doc Popcorn. “With low capital requirements and simple yet scalable operations, we have created a concept that breaks down the barriers to entry for folks seeking to own a business they can feel good about running.”
As the only fresh-popped, all-natural flavored popcorn franchise on the planet, Doc Popcorn pops its non-GMO, whole-grain kernels in 100 percent corn oil and offers a wide variety of distinctive flavors. Gourmet flavors range from Cheesy Cheddar and Sweet Butter to Sinfully Cinnamon and Hoppin' Jalapeño.
