What happens if the 7 Brew Computer System is not properly operated, maintained, and upgraded?
7_Brew Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Despite your obligation to buy, use, and maintain the Computer System according to our standards and specifications, you have sole and complete responsibility for: (1) acquiring, operating, maintaining, and upgrading the Computer System; (2) the manner in which your Computer System interfaces with our and any third party's computer system; (3) any and all consequences if the Computer System is not properly operated, maintained, and upgraded; and (4) independently determining what is required for you to comply (and then complying) at all times with the most-current version of the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards, and with all laws (including privacy laws) governing the use, disclosure, and protection of Consumer Data and the Computer System, and validating compliance with those standards and laws as periodically required.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 34–45)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to 7 Brew's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees have sole responsibility for acquiring, operating, maintaining, and upgrading the Computer System. This includes how the system interfaces with 7 Brew's and third-party systems. The FDD states that franchisees are responsible for any and all consequences if the Computer System is not properly operated, maintained, and upgraded.
Furthermore, franchisees must independently determine what is required to comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards and all laws governing the use, disclosure, and protection of Consumer Data. They are also responsible for validating compliance with these standards and laws as required.
In addition, the 7 Brew FDD notes that computer systems are vulnerable to various issues such as viruses, bugs, power disruptions, communication-line disruptions, Internet access failures, Internet content failures, and attacks by hackers. Franchisees are responsible for protecting themselves from these problems, including securing their systems by updating firewalls, password protection, and anti-virus systems, as well as using backup systems. Failing to adequately maintain and secure the computer system could lead to data breaches, financial losses, and legal liabilities for the franchisee.