Can you provide specific reasons for the 15 restaurant closures in 2023, particularly the 12 units categorized as 'ceased other'? Were these related to economic factors, performance issues, or franchisor-initiated actions?
#1
The termination rate of 2.8% is more than double the typical range for QSR franchises. What specific violations or performance issues led to the 11 terminations in 2022 and 5 in 2024?
#2
Why is the transfer fee set at $17,500 when the typical range for this franchise type is $5,000-$15,000? What services or approvals justify this higher fee?
#3
The 20-year initial term is significantly longer than the typical 10-15 years for QSR franchises. What is the rationale for this extended commitment, and are there early termination options available?
#4
The non-compete radius of 25 miles exceeds typical standards by 2.5x. How is this enforced, and what geographic restrictions apply if you exit the franchise?
#5
You mention no Item 19 financial disclosures. Can you provide revenue and profit data from a representative sample of franchisees who have been open for 3+ years?
#6
With no exclusive territory protection, how does the franchisor prevent encroachment by other Wayback Burgers locations or similar brands within a given market?
#7
The renewal conditions require 9 specified conditions and a renewal fee equal to 10% of the then-current franchise fee. What are these 9 conditions, and can you provide examples of franchisees denied renewal?
#8
Dispute resolution requires binding arbitration in the franchisor's county. If you operate in a different state, how are travel and logistics handled for dispute resolution?
#9
Personal guarantees are required from all principals without limitation. If the franchise fails, what is the extent of personal liability, and are there any circumstances where this guarantee can be released?
#10
The net unit growth of 9.09% in the past year exceeds typical growth rates. Is this growth driven by new unit openings or primarily by acquisitions of existing units?
#11
Can you detail the 2024 closures (10 units) by reason: how many were franchisor terminations versus voluntary closures versus other causes?
#12
The franchise fee is $35,000. What is included in initial training, and what additional costs should a new franchisee expect before opening (build-out, equipment, working capital)?
#13
For the 2 renewal options of 5 years each, what is the typical approval rate for renewals, and what percentage of franchisees have successfully renewed their agreements?
#14
The operational control clause mandates purchases from approved suppliers only. How many approved suppliers exist for key product categories, and what is the typical markup or pricing compared to open market rates?
#15
Mandatory mediation is required before arbitration. What are the typical costs, duration, and success rates of mediation under your standard process?
#16
Can you provide contact information for at least 10-15 franchisees who have been open for 3+ years, including those who have closed or transferred their locations, so I can conduct independent reference checks?
#17
The initial franchise fee is $35,000 and renewal fee is $3,500. Are there other recurring fees (technology, marketing support, insurance) that are not reflected in these figures?
#18
Renovations are mentioned as a renewal condition. What is the estimated cost range for required renovations, and how frequently are renovations mandated?
#19
Over the past 3 years, what percentage of franchisees have renewed their agreements versus exited (through closure, termination, or non-renewal)?
#20