Who is responsible for permitting application and management for an Afuri Ramen Dumpling franchise?
Afuri_Ramen_Dumpling Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- Permitting application and management
MEP drawings to be completed by contractor/subcontractor as needed
You must use our designated architect to create your general project concept and schematics.
You will pay us or our designated architect directly at our discretion.
You may use a local architect, subject to our prior approval, to provide detailed construction blueprints, which must comply with our specifications and approval, and to assist with permitting and other services.
Exhibit 5 contains an outline allocating deliverables and responsibilities of the Franchisor, the Franchisee, and others with respect to the design of the Franchise Premises and related matters.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 50–189)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Afuri Ramen Dumpling's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee's architect/designer is responsible for the permitting application and management. However, the franchisee must use Afuri Ramen Dumpling's designated architect to create the general project concept and schematics. The franchisee may use a local architect, subject to Afuri Ramen Dumpling's prior approval, to provide detailed construction blueprints, which must comply with Afuri Ramen Dumpling's specifications and approval, and to assist with permitting and other services.
This division of responsibility means that while the franchisee can leverage local expertise for navigating local building codes and specific permitting requirements, they must still adhere to Afuri Ramen Dumpling's overall design and brand standards. This ensures consistency across all franchise locations while allowing for necessary adaptations to local regulations.
Prospective Afuri Ramen Dumpling franchisees should carefully consider the costs associated with using both the designated architect for initial design and a local architect for detailed blueprints and permitting. Understanding the deliverables and responsibilities outlined in Exhibit 5, as referenced in the FDD, is crucial for budgeting and project management. Franchisees should also confirm whether the franchisor's designated architect is an additional cost or included in the franchise fee.