Around what point is the Afuri Ramen Dumpling Franchise Territory radius measured?

According to Afuri Ramen Dumpling's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the radius for the post-termination non-compete agreement is measured around the Franchise Territory. Specifically, the non-compete applies within the Franchise Territory itself, within a 50-mile radius of the Franchise Territory, and within a 50-mile radius of any location or franchise territory where Afuri Ramen Dumpling operates or has granted a franchise.

This means that after the franchise agreement terminates, expires, or is transferred, the franchisee is restricted from engaging in competitive businesses within these defined areas. The restrictions extend not only to the franchisee but also to their owners, shareholders, partners, directors, officers, employees, agents, and immediate family members who have knowledge of the Operations Manual or System. The prohibited businesses include those involved in ramen, other Japanese-style cuisine, Vietnamese pho, or any business offering substantially similar products or services to the Afuri Ramen Dumpling System.

For a prospective franchisee, this clause has significant implications. It limits their ability to operate a similar business after leaving the Afuri Ramen Dumpling system, potentially restricting their future business ventures within a considerable radius of their former franchise and other Afuri Ramen Dumpling locations. The 50-mile radius extends the non-compete beyond the immediate franchise territory, which is a fairly standard practice in franchising to protect the brand's market presence. Franchisees should carefully consider these restrictions and how they might impact their long-term career options before investing in an Afuri Ramen Dumpling franchise.