Can you provide the specific reasons for the 4 unit closures in 2023-2024? Were these franchisor-initiated terminations or voluntary closures?
#1
The system has contracted from 45 to 41 units over 3 years with a termination rate of 4.9%. What changes in support, territory policies, or system operations have been made to address this trend?
#2
Why is the monthly technology fee set at $2,000, which is 4-20 times higher than the typical range of $100-$500 for business service franchises? What specific services and technology are included?
#3
The transfer fee of $34,500 significantly exceeds the typical range. What justifies this fee amount, and are there any payment plan options available?
#4
Given the 35-year initial term, what specific circumstances would trigger franchisor termination rights, and what cure periods apply?
#5
With a termination rate of 4.9%, what are the most common reasons franchisees are terminated versus choosing to exit voluntarily?
#6
The advertising fund rate of 3.0% is above the typical range. How is this fund allocated, and can you provide a breakdown of marketing spend for the past 2 years?
#7
Can you clarify the royalty structure? The agreement specifies the greater of 6% of gross revenues or $1,500 monthly—has the minimum monthly amount been adjusted in recent years?
#8
What encroachment protections are actually in place if the territory is not exclusive? Are there documented cases where the franchisor has honored these protections?
#9
You offer only 1 renewal option at year 35. What is the franchisor's track record for approving renewal applications? Are there franchisees whose renewals have been denied?
#10
Given the System Health score of 38 (below the typical 46-70 range), what specific performance or operational metrics is the system focusing on to improve stability?
#11
The franchise agreement requires a minimum of 4 hours of mediation before binding arbitration. Have any disputes reached arbitration, and if so, what were the outcomes?
#12
Spouses must sign confidentiality agreements. Can you clarify what specific information is covered and what the consequences are for breach?
#13
The late payment policy includes 5% late charge plus 18% annual interest. Has this been applied frequently, and are there any negotiation points on these terms?
#14
With 41 current units and declining growth, what is the franchisor's plan to expand the system? Are there geographic markets where expansion is planned?
#15
Item 19 shows average gross sales of $601,708. What percentage of franchisees achieve or exceed this average, and what is the range of performance across the system?
#16
The 10-day cure period for payment defaults is quite short. What support or communication does the franchisor provide before enforcing this clause?
#17
Can you provide a list of franchisees who have exited in the past 3 years and their contact information so I can discuss their experiences?
#18
The agreement requires commercial general liability insurance. What minimum coverage limits are required, and can you provide sample policies that meet these requirements?
#19
Are there any pending disputes, complaints with state franchise regulators, or class action lawsuits involving Intelligent Office franchisees that should be disclosed?
#20