Does Afuri Ramen Dumpling have to approve or disapprove of proposed sites for the Afuri Ramen Dumpling Franchise Premises?

According to the 2024 Afuri Ramen Dumpling Franchise Disclosure Document, Afuri Ramen Dumpling must approve or disapprove of proposed sites for the Franchise Premises and the lease for the Franchise Premises, if any. The factors Afuri Ramen Dumpling may consider in approving proposed site selections include the following: general location and neighborhood; traffic patterns; parking; physical characteristics of existing buildings; lease terms; population density; and population demographics. Afuri Ramen Dumpling will typically notify the franchisee of approval or disapproval of their proposed site within 30 days of their receipt of reasonable documentation that they request or specify regarding the site.

This approval process is a standard practice in franchising, intended to ensure that the location meets Afuri Ramen Dumpling's criteria for success. These criteria likely include factors that have historically contributed to the success of other Afuri Ramen Dumpling locations. By retaining approval rights, Afuri Ramen Dumpling maintains control over brand consistency and market placement.

For a prospective franchisee, this means they will need to work closely with Afuri Ramen Dumpling to identify and secure a suitable location. This may involve submitting detailed information about potential sites and being prepared to adjust their plans based on Afuri Ramen Dumpling's feedback. The 30-day notification period provides a reasonable timeframe for decision-making, but franchisees should factor this into their overall timeline for opening the franchise. If Afuri Ramen Dumpling and the franchisee cannot agree on a site within the prescribed deadline, then Afuri Ramen Dumpling has the right to terminate the Franchise Agreement.