How does Afuri Ramen Dumpling decide where and when to place advertising using Advertising Fees?

According to Afuri Ramen Dumpling's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the company has sole discretion over advertising. Afuri Ramen Dumpling will use advertising fees to place advertising in geographic areas, in media, at times, and using products and services they deem to be in the best interest of their franchisees and the franchise system.

The advertising fees collected from franchisees, which amount to 1% of total revenue, can be used for various advertising and promotional activities. These activities include internet pay-per-click campaigns, social media marketing, television, radio, magazine and newspaper advertising campaigns, and public relations programs. The fees also cover marketing research and development, marketing surveys, public relations activities, development and maintenance of internet or e-commerce programs, marketing materials, decor and promotional materials, artwork, advertising services, and training related to marketing, customer service, and sales augmentation.

Furthermore, the advertising fees cover the production and distribution of periodic newsletters, costs related to custom or proprietary software applications used for customer ordering, website maintenance, online portal maintenance, self-order kiosk programs, and reasonable salaries, accounting, collection, legal, and other costs related to these activities. This comprehensive approach allows Afuri Ramen Dumpling to maintain control over the brand's image and marketing strategies, ensuring consistency and effectiveness across all franchise locations.