Is the Amorino development fee refundable?
Amorino Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ions to be displayed in and around the Store, which decorations must comply with the standards we set forth by Amorino.
- E. Development Fee. If you are opening a Traditional Store and if so specified in the Data Sheet, we may require you to pay a development fee in the amount set forth in the Data Sheet, for services to be provided by us or a consulting firm designated by us to assist you in managing the selection and development of the Store. If we require you to pay such fee, half of the fee is due when you sign this Agreement, and the other half is due on the Site Selection Date. Such fee is to be paid to us on behalf of the consultant and is nonrefundable upon payment.
- F. Transfer Fee. In connection with a transfer of the Franchised Business, you must pay the applicable transfer fee in accordance with Section 15.
- G. Other Payments to Amorino. In addition to all other payments provided in this Agreement, you agree to pay promptly when due any and all:
- (1) Amounts advanced by Amorino or any of its Affiliates, or which Amorino or any of its Affiliates has paid, or which Amorino or any of its Affiliates becomes obligated to pay, on your behalf for any reason whatsoever;
- (2) Amounts due to Amorino relating to your participation in marketing programs that we may require pursuant to Section 12;
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 80–81)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Amorino's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the development fee is generally nonrefundable. If Amorino requires a development fee for a traditional store, half is due upon signing the agreement, and the other half is due on the Site Selection Date. This fee is paid to Amorino on behalf of a consultant who assists in the store's selection and development. Once paid, the development fee is nonrefundable.
However, there is a separate fee related to site selection that may be refundable under specific conditions. If a franchisee fails to secure an approved location within 90 days of the agreement's effective date, Amorino charges a $3,500 fee to extend the site selection period by 180 days, totaling 270 days from the effective date. This extension fee is refundable if the franchisee opens the franchised business within that 270-day period.
Prospective Amorino franchisees should note the distinction between the development fee, which is nonrefundable, and the site selection extension fee, which may be refundable if the store opens within the specified timeframe. Franchisees should clarify with Amorino the specific conditions and deadlines for any potential refunds to avoid misunderstandings.