For Afuri Ramen Dumpling franchises, who is responsible for completing MEP drawings?

According to Afuri Ramen Dumpling's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the responsibility for completing MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) drawings falls to the contractor or subcontractor, as needed. This is outlined in Exhibit 5 of the Franchise Agreement, which details the allocation of responsibilities for architectural design.

Specifically, the franchisee is responsible for providing certain architectural input and ensuring code compliance, while the franchisor delivers conceptual designs, interior elevations, and other design elements. However, the actual MEP drawings, which are crucial for the functionality of the restaurant's systems, are handled by the contractor or subcontractor involved in the construction process.

This division of responsibility means that Afuri Ramen Dumpling franchisees will need to coordinate with their chosen contractors to ensure these drawings are completed accurately and in compliance with local codes. While the franchisor provides design guidance, the franchisee bears the responsibility of ensuring the MEP aspects of the build-out are properly addressed through their selected contractor. This is a fairly standard practice in the franchise industry, where the franchisor provides the overall design concept, but the franchisee manages the actual construction and local code compliance.