Who has the final say in approving a location for an Amorino franchise?
Amorino Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You may operate the Store only at the location approved by us. When you sign the franchise agreement, we will mutually agree upon a site selection area in which you can propose the location for your store. You must identify a location to serve as your franchised location for the Store by a date set forth in the franchise agreement. For any proposed site you identify, and in addition to completing a "Project Proposal" Form and "Key Elements" File, you must supply us with a description of the location in the form we specify and any other information we may reasonably require in order to evaluate the location, including demographic characteristics, traffic patterns, parking, character of the neighborhood, information on other area businesses, and information on the lease terms or purchase price for the proposed site. You must also advise us of any time periods within which the lessor of the proposed location requires a response, comments on and/or acceptance of the lease.
The location must be within the site selection area identified in the franchise agreement, meet Amorino's then-current site selection criteria, and be approved by us. We agree not to unreasonably delay our review and approval or disapproval of the proposed site and lease terms. We consider various objective and subjective factors, as well as our business experience, in reviewing your proposed initial location and any potential new locations. Approval of locations is at our sole discretion. You shall submit to us for prior approval all construction plans, site plans and blueprints for the location we approve.
Source: Item 12 — TERRITORY (FDD pages 47–50)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Amorino's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Amorino retains the sole discretion to approve the location of a franchise. While the franchisee is responsible for identifying a potential site within a mutually agreed-upon site selection area and providing detailed information about the location, including demographics, traffic patterns, and lease terms, the final decision rests with Amorino. Amorino agrees to not unreasonably delay their review of the proposed site and lease terms.
This means that even if a franchisee finds what they believe to be an ideal location and provides all the required documentation, Amorino can still reject the site. Amorino considers various objective and subjective factors, as well as their business experience, in reviewing a proposed initial location and any potential new locations. This approval process underscores the importance of a collaborative relationship between the franchisee and Amorino during the site selection phase.
This level of franchisor control over location is common in franchise systems, as the location's success significantly impacts the brand's overall reputation and profitability. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider Amorino's site selection criteria and engage in open communication with the franchisor to understand their preferences and increase the likelihood of site approval. Franchisees are also required to submit all construction plans, site plans, and blueprints for the approved location for Amorino's prior approval.