What operating system is required for the computer systems used in an Annex Brands franchise?
Annex_Brands Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Each computer system must have at least the following hardware and software: Current Generation Dual or Quad Core (10th generation or higher), or Generation Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 (or iX-10-xxx or higher), or current Generation AMD Ryzen 5, 7, or Threadripper Processor (or equivalent), 16 gigabytes RAM, 256 Gig solid state drive (SSD) or 500 Gig hard drive, 256 MB or more video card with dual video connection, gigabyte Ethernet card with RJ-45 connection, about 11 ports (the number and type of ports depend on the number and type of attached devices), a multicard reader (reads digital camera memory cards), 22" flat LCD monitor, Windows USB keyboard, 2-button mouse, thermal receipt printer, label printer, Dymo 450 label printer (used for printable postage interface software), cash drawer, 150-lb certifiable electronic scale, bar code reader, HP laser printer or its equivalent, merchant service terminals (used for debit and credit card processing that integrates with PostalMate POS network software), and Windows 10 or 11 Professional operating system. If required in your state, you also may need a pole display. If you are in Florida or Texas, you also will need digital fingerprinting computer equipment and software. If you use more than 1 computer system, each computer system must be linked or networked and you will need a router or switch capable of 1000 MBPS and 1000 Base T network cabling (CAT 5e/6/7.) We do not recommend wireless networks. You may obtain your computer hardware from any supplier. We may assist you in obtaining your computer hardware, but we are not required to do so.
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 45–62)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Annex Brands Franchise Disclosure Document, each computer system must have Windows 10 or 11 Professional operating system. The computer systems must also meet minimum hardware requirements, including a Current Generation Dual or Quad Core (10th generation or higher), or Generation Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 (or iX-10-xxx or higher), or current Generation AMD Ryzen 5, 7, or Threadripper Processor (or equivalent), 16 gigabytes RAM, 256 Gig solid state drive (SSD) or 500 Gig hard drive, 256 MB or more video card with dual video connection, gigabyte Ethernet card with RJ-45 connection, about 11 ports, a multicard reader, a 22" flat LCD monitor, Windows USB keyboard, 2-button mouse, thermal receipt printer, label printer, Dymo 450 label printer, cash drawer, 150-lb certifiable electronic scale, bar code reader, HP laser printer or its equivalent, and merchant service terminals.
Annex Brands requires franchisees to use specific computer systems and software to ensure compatibility with the PostalMate POS network software and other approved third-party programs. Franchisees can purchase the required computer hardware from TechShed or another supplier, but they must ensure that the system meets Annex Brands's minimum specifications. If a franchisee chooses to obtain their computer hardware from another supplier, they might need assistance from a professional computer technician to install PostalMate POS network software, Endicia Premier Plan software, PM Tools software, and hardware peripherals required to operate PostalMate POS network software.
Annex Brands may update these computer system specifications and designate suppliers with reasonable written notice. The franchisor also retains the right to access the franchisee's computer systems remotely for support or to obtain information. Franchisees are responsible for maintaining their internet access and ensuring their systems are compatible with the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, or Internet Explorer. The cost of the computer systems is estimated to range from $580 to $13,000, depending on the type of retail center.