What is the nature of the pending litigation case initiated by the franchisor, and what is the expected timeline for resolution?
#1
Can you provide details on the 20 units that closed in 2024 and the 20 units that experienced 'ceased other' exits? What factors contributed to these closures?
#2
The ad fund rate of 4.0% is above the category typical range of 2.0-3.0%. How is this ad fund allocated and deployed, and what measurable return on marketing spend can franchisees expect?
#3
Your Investment Cost score (56/100) falls below the typical range for this category. What explains the higher initial investment requirements for this franchise?
#4
Territory is non-exclusive with no encroachment protection. Can the franchisor open additional Scooter's Coffee locations within 10 miles of my location, and if so, what recourse do I have?
#5
The closure trend shows 0 closures in 2022, 2 in 2023, and 20 in 2024. What operational or market changes in 2024 led to this significant increase in unit closures?
#6
Can you provide the names and contact information for at least 10 franchisees who closed their locations in 2023-2024 so I can understand the reasons for closure?
#7
How many of the 36 transfers in 2024 involved change of ownership versus the same owner opening additional locations?
#8
The franchise agreement requires mandatory binding arbitration with class action waivers. Are there any pending or settled arbitration cases involving multiple franchisees regarding common operational or supply chain issues?
#9
Can you clarify the personal guarantee language? Are guarantees limited to the initial franchise fee and ongoing royalties, or do they extend to all franchise agreement obligations without limit?
#10
What are the 7 specified conditions required for renewal of the franchise agreement, and what percentage of franchisees have successfully renewed versus failed to meet renewal conditions?
#11
You require exclusive purchasing from franchisor-designated suppliers for 8 categories including coffee beans and syrups. Can I see the pricing structure for these required purchases and how it compares to market rates?
#12
The renewal fee is listed as $10,000 or 25% of the then-current initial franchise fee, whichever is greater. What is the current franchise fee trajectory, and could the renewal fee potentially exceed $10,000?
#13
The Financial Performance score (62/100) is above the typical category range. Can you detail how many franchisees are currently profitable, and what is the average payback period for the initial investment?
#14
How many franchisees have exercised their renewal option versus allowed their agreement to expire, and what percentage of franchisees have reached the end of their initial 10-year term?
#15
The System Health score is 90/100, well above the typical range. What specific metrics or operational indicators contribute to this high rating?
#16
Can you provide a breakdown of the 1 case initiated by the franchisor—what was the claim, against which party, and what was the outcome or current status?
#17
Are there any disputes or complaints from franchisees regarding the exclusive purchasing requirements or supplier relationships that have resulted in grievances short of litigation?
#18