Vinker, a plant-based food company based in Vancouver, Canada, is introducing its flagship product, Korean Crispy Chick’n, to the US market. The launch, which takes place at Pop Up Grocer in Manhattan, New York, marks the brand’s first foray into the United States.
Vinker’s Korean Crispy Chick’n is a plant-based version of a popular Korean fried chicken dish. The product features bite-sized pieces made from soy protein, water, and soy oil, coated in a crispy batter and coated in a sweet-and-spicy sauce that mirrors traditional Korean flavors.
Success in Canada
Since its debut in Vancouver in April 2024, the product has garnered positive responses from Canadian consumers. Vinker has partnered with local restaurants, including Hankki, a Korean street food franchise, and Pokerrito, a poke bowl chain, to serve the dish. The product is also available through Vegan Supply, a leading Canadian vegan retailer.
US market entry & entry plans
The limited-time offering at Pop Up Grocer represents the first stage of Vinker’s US market entry. The company plans to officially expand in the US later in 2025, with a larger launch at the Summer Fancy Food Show in New York in June. At the trade show, Vinker will seek to connect with potential retail and distribution partners as part of its strategy for nationwide expansion.
Vinker’s approach to plant-based food focuses on flavor, aiming to provide products that offer the indulgence of traditional comfort foods using entirely plant-based ingredients.
“We’re thrilled to bring our Korean Crispy Chick’n to New York as a sneak peek of what’s to come. Vinker’s dream is to make plant-based food that’s fun and enjoyable by everyone – not just vegans,” said Marco Lee, founder of Vinker.
