Boojum is an Irish chain of Mexican fast-food[4] restaurants. Founded in 2007 by John and Karen Blisard, they operate 17 outlets throughout the island of Ireland,[5] as well as a "Turbo Boojum" outlet in Dublin.[6] On 10 April 2024, Boojum opened their first store outside of Ireland, in Leeds, England.[7]
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| Industry | Restaurants |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2007 in Belfast |
| Founders |
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Area served | |
Key people |
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| Products | |
| Owner |
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Number of employees | 444[3] |
| Website | www |
Foundation
Boojum was founded in 2007 by John Blisard and his wife Karen, who met in Philadelphia.[8] The chain was bought in 2015 by former Ulster Rugby player Andy Maxwell and his brother David,[9] a 2018 EY Entrepreneur of the Year finalist.[10][11]
In June 2023, the company was bought by Azzurri Restaurants Ltd, the owner of the Zizzi and ASK Italian chains.[12]
Products
As well as burritos, tacos, fajitas and burrito bowls,[13] Boojum also produced home barbecue kits,[14] and rice-scented candles.[15]
In 2021, Boojum's managing director David Maxwell criticised supermarket chain Morrisons for apparently imitating Boojum's branding on their Mexican ready meal range.[16] In 2017, Boojum's burrito was the second most commonly ordered item of food on Deliveroo in the world.[17] In 2018, their burrito was the fourth most commonly ordered item of food on Deliveroo in the world.[18]
Advertising
In 2019, an advertisement for Boojum featuring a depiction of Jesus was criticised by a spokesperson from the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, as well as DUP councillor Mark Baxter.[19]
In 2022, the chain apologised after a photo of two tip jars depicting Johnny Depp and Amber Heard emerged on social media.[20]