What are the specific reasons the franchisor is listed as defendant in the pending litigation case, and what is the expected timeline for resolution?
#1
Given the 16.7% exit rate in the past year—more than double the category average—what support or operational challenges are franchisees citing when exiting?
#2
Why is the initial contract term only 5 years when the category standard is 10 years, and how does this shorter term affect franchisee investment recovery plans?
#3
The technology fee of $93/month is significantly below category average. What specific technology and services are included, and are there additional software or platform costs not reflected in this fee?
#4
The royalty rate of 7% exceeds the typical 5-6% range. How does this rate compare to competitor franchises in the home-based ABA services sector?
#5
Can you provide details on the pending litigation case involving the franchisor as defendant, including the nature of the claim and estimated resolution date?
#6
How many of the 5 closures in 2024 were due to franchisee profitability issues versus external factors like market conditions or client acquisition challenges?
#7
The transfer fee of $6,000 is substantially lower than category norms of $10,000+. What protections does the franchisor have regarding franchisee transfers, and has this low fee impacted transfer frequency?
#8
What is included in the Item 19 financial performance disclosure, and are you willing to provide average unit volumes, profit margins, and payback period data?
#9
How does the franchisor support franchisees in the critical first year, given that many exits appear to occur within 12-24 months of opening?
#10
The territory is non-exclusive with no encroachment protection. How many franchised units currently operate within typical service radius of existing units, and what is the franchisor's policy on new unit placement?
#11
Can you explain the 5-renewal option structure totaling 30 years? Is the renewal automatic, and what fees or renegotiations occur at each 5-year renewal?
#12
The 2-year non-compete has no mileage radius specified. How is geographic scope determined, and what are the practical enforcement challenges you've encountered?
#13
Given the elevated closure rate, what financial thresholds or performance metrics trigger franchisor support interventions before a unit fails?
#14
Are there seasonal fluctuations in ABA service demand that franchisees should anticipate, particularly in summer months when school services reduce?
#15
What percentage of the current 30 units are new franchises opened in the past 12 months versus legacy units, and what is the survival rate for cohorts by opening year?
#16
The personal guarantee requirement covers all shareholders and indemnifies the franchisor against multiple liability categories. What specific scenarios have triggered indemnification claims against franchisees?
#17
How is the $93 technology fee allocated—what portion covers billing software, compliance documentation, client management systems, and franchisor support platforms?
#18