What specific factors led to the 2 pending litigation cases against the franchisor, and what are the anticipated outcomes?
#1
Can you provide detailed explanations for the 6 closures and 6 terminations that occurred between 2022-2024, including whether these were franchisee-initiated or franchisor-initiated?
#2
Why is the monthly technology fee of $1,200 substantially higher than the automotive franchise industry standard of $156-$493, and what specific services and software does this fee cover?
#3
Given the 5-year initial term is shorter than the typical 10-15 year range, what are the renewal conditions and can you detail all 5 renewal-related requirements mentioned in the contract?
#4
Why does the franchise agreement contain zero years and zero miles of non-compete protection when the industry standard is 1-2 years and 5-25 miles, and what prevents former franchisees from opening competing operations?
#5
Can you explain the royalty structure of 3.0% compared to the industry standard of 5.4-7.5%, and whether this rate increases over time or with performance milestones?
#6
What mandatory suppliers are franchisees required to use for paint and parts, and are there competitive bids required, or is the franchisor the sole approved supplier?
#7
Of the 11 net new units added in 2024, how many are from existing franchisee expansion versus new franchisees, and what is the breakdown by state or region?
#8
What support and training does the franchise provide given that the Support & Training score of 74 falls below the typical range of 80-100 for automotive franchises?
#9
Can you provide the Item 19 financial performance statement showing average unit volumes, operating expenses, and profitability for existing franchisees?
#10
What were the specific grounds for the terminations, and were any formal dispute resolution processes followed before termination?
#11
How many of the 3 closures in 2022 occurred within the first year of franchise operation, and do early closures indicate onboarding or training issues?
#12
Are there any restrictions on the $10,000 transfer fee, and can you provide the typical timeframe and approval process for franchise transfers?
#13
What is the renewal fee of $5,000 based on, and are there additional requirements or conditions that must be met to qualify for renewal?
#14
Given the rapid expansion from 10 to 30 units in 3 years, what quality control measures are in place to ensure consistent brand standards and customer satisfaction?
#15
Can you provide contact information for at least 10 existing and 5 former franchisees, including those who closed or were terminated, so I can conduct independent reference checks?
#16
What specific operational control does the franchisor retain regarding pricing, and what is the maximum or minimum price range franchisees can charge customers?
#17
Are there any performance benchmarks or unit economics that franchisees must maintain to avoid termination, and what happens if a unit underperforms?
#18
How is the Ad Fund of 0.75% allocated, and can franchisees see detailed accounting of how their contributions are spent?
#19
What is the franchisee's actual cost of goods sold compared to franchisor-approved supplier pricing, and are there opportunities to negotiate volume discounts or alternative suppliers?
#20