Can you provide a detailed breakdown of the 1 unit closure and 1 termination that occurred in 2023? What were the specific circumstances and reasons?
#1
The ad fund rate of 7.0% is significantly above the typical range of 1.5-4.0% for insurance franchises. How is this additional revenue allocated and what specific marketing benefits do franchisees receive?
#2
The monthly technology fee of $650 exceeds the typical range. What specific technology platforms and tools are included, and are there any options to reduce this fee?
#3
With 0% unit turnover, closure, and transfer rates in the past year, how representative are these figures given typical industry volatility? Can you explain the specific factors driving this exceptional stability?
#4
The contract identifies 24 termination causes, above the typical range of 15-23. Can you provide the complete list and clarify which causes are most frequently cited?
#5
The personal guarantee and indemnification clause requires spouses to guarantee obligations. Can you clarify what specific scenarios would trigger spousal liability and provide examples of claims pursued?
#6
The operational control clause restricts purchases to the franchisor or approved suppliers across 4 categories. What are these categories and what percentage markup or margin does the franchisor capture on required purchases?
#7
Territory is protected but not exclusive. How does the franchisor define encroachment, and has there been any instance of multiple franchisees operating in overlapping territories?
#8
Median gross sales are $383,862 and average is $466,858. How many units reported this data, and what is the range of sales performance across the system?
#9
Can you provide the actual Item 19 disclosure statement so prospective franchisees can review detailed financial performance data and unit-level profitability information?
#10
Has the franchisor initiated any terminations under the 24 specified causes? If so, what were the primary reasons and outcomes?
#11
The system grew 29.2% over 3 years. How much of this growth is from new franchisee recruitment versus existing unit expansion, and what is the average unit volume trend?
#12
Transfer fees are $18,750 and renewal fees are $5,000. Are these fees negotiable, and what happens if a franchisee cannot or chooses not to renew after the initial term?
#13
The non-compete is 2 years and 25 miles. Are there circumstances where this can be modified, and how is compliance enforced?
#14
The franchisor receives a 14% royalty plus 7% ad fund plus $650 monthly technology fee. Combined, this totals approximately 21% of revenue in many cases. How does this compare to industry standards and what is the stated breakeven point for typical franchisees?
#15
Have there been any regulatory investigations or complaints filed with state insurance regulators regarding this franchise system or franchisor?
#16
Can you provide historical financial statements showing your franchisor's profitability and reserves? Given the high fees, what guarantees exist if the franchisor becomes insolvent?
#17
The zero termination rate conflicts with a stated 3.0% termination rate metric. Can you clarify how terminations are calculated and counted in your reporting?
#18