Is an Aerus franchisee required to own and maintain computer hardware and internet access connections at an approved location?
Aerus Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee shall own and maintain at an Approved Location computer hardware, computer facilities and computer communications connections (e.g., DSL, cable or satellite internet access connections and service where available) meeting all minimum performance specifications promulgated and published by Company from time to time in order to install, update and support FOAS.
- B.
Franchisee shall permit Company or its Affiliate in-person or remote access to its computer equipment and facilities for purposes of installing, updating and supporting FOAS and shall abide by any reasonable instructions, directions or requests of Company in connection with such installation, update and support.
- C. Franchisee shall implement and use all functions of FOAS in the operation, administration, management and control of the Franchised Business and shall adopt for use all new programs and modules developed and installed from time to time by Company, including without limitation the Franchise Accounting Systems and Tools program module (including any successor or substitute financial management program or module which may be developed, "FAST"), and, if applicable, pay any fee imposed for the new program or module.
- D. Franchisee shall execute a Software License Agreement in a form substantially similar to the form attached hereto as Exhibit II.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 74–305)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Aerus's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to own and maintain computer hardware, facilities, and internet connections at their approved location. This includes ensuring that the computer communications connections, such as DSL, cable, or satellite internet access, meet the minimum performance specifications set by Aerus.
This requirement is essential for installing, updating, and supporting the Aerus Franchise Office Automation System (FOAS). Aerus or its affiliates may also require in-person or remote access to the franchisee's computer equipment and facilities to install, update, and support FOAS. Franchisees must comply with any reasonable instructions from Aerus regarding the installation, updates, and support of the system.
Furthermore, franchisees must use all functions of FOAS in their business operations, administration, management, and control. This includes adopting any new programs and modules developed and installed by Aerus, such as the Franchise Accounting Systems and Tools program module (FAST). Franchisees may also be required to pay fees for these new programs or modules. Additionally, franchisees are required to execute a Software License Agreement, indicating the importance of adhering to these technological requirements for the Aerus franchise system.