Does Afuri Ramen Dumpling have discretion to approve or deny modifications to equipment packages?
Afuri_Ramen_Dumpling Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- 1.4 Franchise Development.
You will be responsible to furnish and equip the Franchise.
- 1.4.1 We will furnish to you a schedule of equipment packages for the Franchise.
Any modifications you propose must be approved in writing by us.
All approvals will be solely within our discretion to maintain a uniform image consistent with Afuri franchise system concepts.
- 1.4.2 You will comply with the standards and specifications we establish for design, layout, equipment, and furnishings, among other things.
Modifications or variations require our prior written consent.
1.4.3 You will comply within a time we deem reasonable with any requirement we impose to modify the layout, furnishings, and equipment.
1.4.4 All equipment will conform to our equipment specifications.
We may require reasonable changes in or additions to equipment .
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 50–189)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Afuri Ramen Dumpling's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must obtain written approval from Afuri Ramen Dumpling for any proposed modifications to the standard equipment packages. This approval is at the sole discretion of Afuri Ramen Dumpling.
This requirement allows Afuri Ramen Dumpling to maintain uniformity across all franchise locations, ensuring that each restaurant reflects the brand's established image and standards. This control extends to the design, layout, equipment, and furnishings of the franchise.
Franchisees must also adhere to Afuri Ramen Dumpling's standards and specifications for all aspects of the restaurant's design and equipment. Furthermore, franchisees are required to make any modifications to the layout, furnishings, or equipment that Afuri Ramen Dumpling deems necessary within a reasonable timeframe. All equipment must conform to Afuri Ramen Dumpling's specifications, and the company reserves the right to require changes or additions to the equipment.
In practice, this means that while franchisees are responsible for furnishing and equipping their location, they have limited flexibility in deviating from the franchisor's prescribed equipment list without express written consent. This could potentially increase costs if a franchisee has already sourced equipment, or limit their choice of vendors.