Can you provide specific details about the 1 pending litigation case, including the nature of the dispute and timeline for resolution?
#1
What were the circumstances of the 2 unit exits in 2022 (1 closure and 1 other cessation)? Were these voluntary exits or franchisor-initiated?
#2
Why does the franchise charge zero monthly technology fees when the industry standard is $110-$408? What technology support and systems are included in the royalty fee?
#3
The termination clause includes 24 possible causes for termination, above the typical 15-20 for this category. Can you explain the rationale for this higher number and provide examples of non-curable defaults?
#4
You currently have only 6 franchised units despite a 20% growth rate in the past year. What is your growth strategy for the next 3-5 years?
#5
The renewal conditions count is 6, below the typical 7-9. What specific conditions must a franchisee meet to qualify for renewal at the end of the initial 10-year term?
#6
The franchise agreement requires binding arbitration in Carson City, Nevada. How many franchisees are located outside Nevada, and what are the typical costs for out-of-state parties to participate in arbitration?
#7
Can you clarify the non-compete scope? The agreement mentions restrictions within 10 miles of the territory, 5 miles of any other Budlong location, and the former territory itself—how do these apply if a franchisee opens a non-competing business?
#8
Personal guarantees are required from franchise owners and their spouses. What happens to the spouse's liability if the marriage is dissolved during the franchise term?
#9
The agreement specifies approved suppliers only. Can you provide the current list of approved suppliers and explain the approval process for new suppliers?
#10
You suggest retail prices and specify maximum/minimum pricing. How often do you change recommended pricing, and what happens if a franchisee refuses to follow the guidelines?
#11
What was the reason for your Support & Training score of 89, which falls slightly below the industry typical range of 90-100? What training and ongoing support do franchisees receive?
#12
The franchise scored 82 on Investment Costs, above the typical 69-78 range. Can you itemize the initial investment required to open a Budlong location?
#13
Why is your territory marked as protected but not exclusive? What protections prevent the franchisor from opening nearby competing Budlong units?
#14
The renewal fee is $15,000. Are there any other fees or requirements beyond the renewal fee to extend the franchise agreement for another 10-year term?
#15
Of the 1 case initiated by the franchisor, what was the outcome and what were the key issues involved?
#16
Can you explain the difference between the 14 non-curable defaults and 10 curable defaults in your termination clause, and provide examples of each?
#17
The agreement includes class action and jury trial waivers. Has this arbitration structure been tested in court, and are there any appeals pending?
#18
What are your current unit economics? What is the average revenue and typical profitability for a Budlong franchisee?
#19
Given the strong 14.47% three-year CAGR, what is preventing faster expansion? Are there capital constraints, market saturation, or other limiting factors?
#20