What is the 'Minimum Local Advertising Expense' that an Aerus franchisee must spend each year?

According to the 2025 Aerus Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to spend a 'Minimum Local Advertising Expense' each year on local advertising, public relations, and promotion within their designated Area of Responsibility. The specific amount of this 'Minimum Local Advertising Expense' is detailed in Schedule 3 of the Franchise Agreement.

Aerus retains significant control over advertising and marketing efforts. Franchisees must adhere to Aerus's standards and procedures outlined in the manuals. All advertising materials must be submitted to Aerus for written approval before use, and Aerus can require franchisees to use specific formats or templates. Aerus also has the right to dictate the placement, size, form, and content of advertising, potentially requiring franchisees to list other Aerus businesses in their advertising.

In addition to the local advertising requirement, Aerus reserves the right to assess franchisees for contributions to the System Media Fund, which is used to fund media market spending that benefits the entire Aerus system. This means that franchisees may have to contribute to both local and system-wide advertising initiatives. Prospective franchisees should carefully review Schedule 3 of the Franchise Agreement to understand the exact 'Minimum Local Advertising Expense' and clarify any questions regarding the System Media Fund contributions with Aerus.

It is important for potential Aerus franchisees to understand that the franchisor can change the advertising requirements from time to time. Franchisees are obligated to provide an accurate accounting of their local advertising expenditures to Aerus upon request. This level of oversight and control over advertising is common in franchising, as it helps maintain brand consistency and ensures that marketing efforts align with the overall strategy of Aerus.