What were the specific circumstances of the 3 franchisor-initiated terminations in 2025, and do they represent a change in enforcement patterns?
#1
The termination rate of 2.5% exceeds the typical range for this franchise type—what are the most common reasons franchisees are being terminated?
#2
Can you provide details on the 1 litigation case initiated against the franchisor—what was the nature of the claim and how was it resolved?
#3
The contract allows for a 40-year total potential term, significantly longer than the typical 15-20 years—how does this extended term affect franchisees' ability to exit or renegotiate terms?
#4
With 24 termination causes listed in the agreement, can you clarify which causes are curable versus non-curable, and provide specific examples of how the 72-hour cure period for health/safety hazards has been applied?
#5
The 2-year non-compete period restricts involvement in competing fundraising businesses—how broadly is 'competing' defined, and has this been enforced against former franchisees?
#6
Seven units closed in 2023 but only 3 in 2025—what factors changed to improve unit retention, and are these improvements expected to continue?
#7
Median unit sales are $773,113—what percentage of franchisees achieve sales above versus below this threshold, and what variables most influence sales performance?
#8
The franchisor requires purchase of 6 categories of items from approved suppliers only—what is the typical markup or profit margin on these required purchases?
#9
Can you provide the specific details of the 6 renewal conditions required to qualify for the three 10-year renewal options, and what percentage of franchisees successfully renew?
#10
The transfer fee is $10,000 and renewal fee is $5,000—are these fees refundable if the transfer or renewal is denied by the franchisor?
#11
Personal guarantees are required from franchisees and their spouses—does this personal guarantee survive termination of the franchise agreement, and for what duration?
#12
The franchise agreement requires mandatory binding arbitration and waives class action and jury trial rights—how have previous disputes been resolved, and what was the average cost and duration?
#13
With a net unit growth of 13 units in 2025 (11.0% growth), what is the franchisee acquisition strategy, and how does the franchisor attract new franchisees?
#14
Support and training score of 73 is below the typical range of 78.25-97.75 for this type of franchise—what specific training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide, and how frequently?
#15
Six franchisees ceased operations for other reasons in 2023—can you explain what 'ceased other' means and whether these closures were voluntary or franchisor-initiated?
#16
The financial performance score of 70 exceeds the typical range—what factors contribute to above-average financial performance for Apex franchisees?
#17
Are there any disputes currently being mediated or arbitrated that may not be reflected in the litigation data, and if so, what are the general nature and status of these disputes?
#18