When is the architect fee due for an Annex Brands Express Retail Center?
Annex_Brands Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Note 16: An architect we designate will prepare architectural plans meeting local structural, electrical, plumbing and other construction-related requirements. If "as built" plans are not provided by the landlord, or the site is delivered to you in an "as is" condition, there may be additional architect inspection fees, which are included within this range. In addition, local government agencies may charge fees for reviewing and approving those plans. The refundability of any government fee is at the discretion of the government agency. If you are converting a qualified existing business to a standard retail center or flex retail center (see Item 5), architectural plans may not be required and you will not be required to pay an architect fee under those circumstances.
Source: Item 7 — Estimated Initial Investment (FDD pages 32–39)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 FDD, Annex Brands requires an architect to prepare architectural plans meeting local requirements for new retail centers. Note 16 states that if "as built" plans are not provided by the landlord, or the site is delivered in an "as is" condition, there may be additional architect inspection fees. However, the FDD does not specify when the architect fee is due.
Item 7 includes a table that lists various expenditures, their payment methods, when they are due, and to whom payment is made. However, this table does not include architect fees. The table includes the initial franchise fee, which is $17,500.
Because the exact due date for architect fees is not specified in the FDD, prospective Annex Brands franchisees should ask the franchisor directly about the payment schedule for these fees. Understanding when these fees are due will help franchisees manage their initial investment costs effectively.