What is the protected area for an Annex Brands express retail center?

According to Annex Brands's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the protected area for an express retail center is defined as the physical facility in which the retail center is located. This means that Annex Brands will not establish another franchise of the same type within the same building or complex as your express retail center. This is a more limited protected area compared to standard or flex retail centers.

This arrangement offers a degree of protection against direct competition from other Annex Brands franchisees within the same location. However, it's important to note that this protection does not extend beyond the confines of the facility itself. Therefore, competition from other businesses or even other Annex Brands franchises located outside the facility is still possible.

It is also important to note that the protected area can be amended through a mutual written agreement between the franchisee, Annex Brands, and any regional licensee in the area. This provides a mechanism for adjusting the protected area if circumstances change, but it requires the consent of all parties involved. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider the implications of this limited protected area and discuss any concerns with Annex Brands before signing the franchise agreement.