Are the Aerus Standard and Associate programs generally similar?
Aerus Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Although the type of businesses operated under each of the programs are similar, there are key and important differences in the programs. Associate Program franchisees may only operate from a single approved location, while Standard Program franchisees may, with our approval, open additional locations. Whether a franchisee is under the Association Program or Standard Program affects the prices at which the franchisee may sell consigned products, with Standard Program franchisees entitled to more favorable pricing. Some of the additional key differences between the programs are summarized below and are noted throughout this Disclosure Document. Unless otherwise noted in this Disclosure Document, the programs are similar.
Source: Item 1 — The Franchisor and any Parents, Predecessors, and Affiliates (FDD pages 9–15)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Aerus Franchise Disclosure Document, the Standard and Associate programs share several characteristics. Both programs operate businesses identified by Aerus's marks and are primarily engaged in selling products to Approved Customers, which include non-commercial, residential buyers and specific commercial buyers. These businesses operate from pre-authorized physical locations that serve as retail locations, service centers, and recruiting/training hubs, and both operate in accordance with the Aerus system.
However, the FDD emphasizes that despite these similarities, there are key differences between the two programs. A significant distinction is that Associate Program franchisees are limited to a single approved location, while Standard Program franchisees have the potential to open additional locations with Aerus's approval. This difference in expansion capability is a major consideration for prospective franchisees with growth ambitions.
Furthermore, the pricing structure for consigned products differs between the programs, with Standard Program franchisees receiving more favorable pricing. The FDD explicitly states that unless otherwise noted, the programs are similar, but it also highlights that some additional key differences are noted throughout the document. Therefore, while the programs share a foundational structure, prospective franchisees should carefully evaluate the specific differences outlined in the FDD to determine which program best aligns with their business goals and operational preferences. The table provided in the FDD also highlights differences in minimum sales requirements and service center obligations.