Is Annex Brands obligated to inspect a proposed site for my retail center?
Annex_Brands Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We must approve the site for your retail center. We approve or disapprove a site within 30 days after you propose it, based on factors such as population density, demographics, competition from other businesses, the nature of other businesses in proximity to the site, commercial characteristics, visibility, accessibility, size, appearance and other physical characteristics that determine the suitability of the site. We will assist you in selecting a site, subject to availability of personnel and at your request. We may, but are not obligated to, inspect a proposed site. If we inspect a proposed site, we will not charge you. If we disapprove a proposed site, you must locate another site for your retail center.
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 45–62)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Annex Brands' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, while Annex Brands must approve the site for your retail center, they are not obligated to inspect it. Annex Brands will approve or disapprove a site within 30 days after you propose it. This decision is based on factors such as population density, demographics, competition, the nature of nearby businesses, commercial characteristics, visibility, accessibility, size, appearance, and other physical characteristics.
Annex Brands will assist you in selecting a site, depending on personnel availability and at your request. If Annex Brands does inspect a proposed site, they will not charge you for the inspection. However, the FDD clearly states that Annex Brands may, but is not obligated to, inspect a proposed site.
If Annex Brands disapproves of your proposed site, you will need to find another location for your retail center. This process highlights the importance of thorough due diligence on your part when selecting a location, as Annex Brands' approval is required, but their inspection is not guaranteed. As a prospective franchisee, it would be prudent to discuss site selection criteria and assistance in detail with Annex Brands to understand their expectations and the level of support they typically provide.