Does 7 Brew have the right to pre-approve the franchisee's proposed architect?
7_Brew Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must develop the Store at your expense. You must follow our construction guidelines and mandatory specifications and layouts for a 7 BREW Store ("Plans"), including requirements for dimensions, design, interior layout, improvements, color scheme, décor, signage, and Operating Assets. All other decisions regarding the Store's development are subject to our review and prior written approval.
You must adapt the Plans for the Store ("Adapted Plans") and make sure they comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA"), all federal, state, and local laws, codes, ordinances, and regulations, and lease requirements and restrictions. You must send us the Adapted Plans for pre-approval before the Store's build-out begins and all revised or "as built" plans and specifications prepared during construction and development. Our review is limited to reviewing compliance with our Plans. We have the right to pre-approve your proposed architect.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 27–32)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to 7 Brew's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, 7 Brew has the right to pre-approve a franchisee's proposed architect. Franchisees are responsible for the Store's development expenses and must adhere to 7 Brew's construction guidelines, mandatory specifications, and layouts, referred to as "Plans." These Plans encompass requirements for dimensions, design, interior layout, improvements, color scheme, décor, signage, and Operating Assets. All decisions regarding the Store's development are subject to 7 Brew's review and prior written approval.
Before construction begins, franchisees must adapt the Plans to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as well as all federal, state, and local laws, codes, ordinances, regulations, and lease requirements. These Adapted Plans must be submitted to 7 Brew for pre-approval. Additionally, any revised or "as built" plans and specifications prepared during construction and development must also be submitted. However, 7 Brew's review is limited to ensuring compliance with their original Plans.
This pre-approval process ensures that all 7 Brew locations maintain a consistent brand image and meet the company's standards for construction and design. For a prospective franchisee, this means they will need to factor in the time and potential costs associated with getting architectural plans approved by 7 Brew. While 7 Brew states that they will not unreasonably withhold approval, franchisees should be prepared to make revisions to their plans based on 7 Brew's feedback.