Can you explain the two unit exits in 2022 (1 closure and 1 termination)? What were the circumstances, and what changes were implemented afterward to achieve zero turnover since?
#1
The transfer fee of $7,500 is notably lower than the typical range of $8,750-$20,000 for fast casual restaurants. How is this fee structured, and are there additional costs associated with unit transfers that franchisees should anticipate?
#2
Average unit volume is $859,059, which is 8.5% below the typical range for the category. Can you break down sales performance by franchisee cohort (by opening year) to help identify whether newer units are underperforming or if this represents mature unit performance?
#3
How many of your 25 current units are included in the Item 19 financial performance disclosure, and what percentage of franchisees are these units representative of?
#4
The Investment Cost score is 70, below the typical range of 73-77.25. What specific investment components are driving this lower score, and what does the total investment range look like for different unit types or locations?
#5
Can you provide documentation of the personal guarantee requirement mentioned in the franchise agreement, including whether spousal signatures are always required or only in certain circumstances?
#6
With a Territory score of 100 (above typical range), can you clarify the specific protections in place? Are there any exceptions to exclusivity, such as online delivery, ghost kitchens, or catering operations?
#7
Have there been any disputes or complaints from franchisees regarding territory encroachment, online delivery overlap, or company-owned unit placement within franchise territories?
#8
The Ongoing Fees score is 60, at the lower end of the typical range. Are there any additional or variable fees beyond the 6% royalty, 2% ad fund, and $250 technology fee (e.g., training, marketing support, system upgrades)?
#9
Can you detail the advertising fund allocation and provide examples of how it has been spent in the past 12 months?
#10
What support and training is included during the initial ramp-up period, and are there ongoing training or refresher requirements with associated costs?
#11
The system grew from 17 to 25 units in 3 years. What percentage of growth came from franchise sales versus company-owned expansion, and what is your franchise sales pipeline for the next 12 months?
#12
Are all 25 units currently operational, and if any units are temporarily closed or undergoing renovation, how long have they been inactive?
#13
With zero litigation cases and zero terminations, what is your policy for addressing underperforming franchisees? At what point would the franchisor consider non-renewal or termination?
#14
Can you provide a geographic distribution map of your 25 units and explain your expansion strategy regarding territory saturation and multi-unit development opportunities?
#15
The Renewal Fee is $5,000. Are there any conditions under which renewal can be denied, and what proportion of franchisees historically choose not to renew versus those that do renew?
#16
Can you clarify the scope and enforceability of the 2-year, 10-mile non-compete clause? Does it apply to all food service concepts or specifically to your brand category?
#17
Are there any pending franchise applications or commitments for new units that would change the current unit count in the near term?
#18
What is the typical franchisee profile in terms of prior restaurant experience, capital availability, and operational background among your 25 current operators?
#19
Can you provide contact information for 5-10 franchisees (across different opening dates and regions) who would be willing to discuss their experience, financial performance, and overall satisfaction with the system?
#20