In the context of Aplus store construction or conversion, what is the definition of 'Plans'?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
In the case of ground-up construction or conversion of an existing building to an APLUS Store, as soon as reasonably practicable after execution of this Agreement, you shall supply Sunoco and its designated third party engineering vendor with the following items sufficient to enable the third party engineering vendor to prepare standard engineering and architectural plans, including but not limited to, plans of Sunoco's then current typical APLUS Store scheme suitable for your property so as to enable you to apply for the applicable permits necessary for the construction or modification of the Premises and, under certain conditions, a beer and wine license and to construct, or (where applicable) convert to such a typical facility (hereinafter collectively referred to as the "Plans"):
(a) photographs of the entire site, including improvements and corner signage, if any, and of adjacent business properties;
(b) current topographic survey of the property, showing all existing elevations and site features; width of streets; type of curbs cuts and corner radius; existing sidewalks and/or approaches, including the material and condition; location of existing power poles, light poles, hydrants, traffic light poles, water, gas and electrical curb boxes; buildings and islands on the site, if any, by dimension; paving; landscaping; trees; fencing retaining walls; underground motor fuel storage, if any; property line dimensions, angles and bearings; known setbacks, easements and code restrictions; and north arrow and notes on any special building, zoning and/or sign code regulations affecting the property;
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 68–302)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, "Plans" refer to the standard engineering and architectural plans necessary for constructing or converting a building into an Aplus store. These plans are essential for obtaining the required permits for construction or modification of the premises, and potentially for securing a beer and wine license, if applicable.
To enable the third party engineering vendor to prepare the Plans, the franchisee must supply Sunoco and the vendor with specific items. These items include photographs of the site and adjacent properties, a current topographic survey detailing elevations, site features, street widths, curb types, sidewalks, utility locations, building dimensions, paving, landscaping, property line dimensions, and any relevant code restrictions.
The franchisee is responsible for ensuring the Plans meet local building codes and requirements, and any modifications needed to comply with these local regulations are at the franchisee's expense. Changes requested by the franchisee that are not related to local requirements must be approved by Sunoco in advance and are also the franchisee's responsibility to pay for. After the franchisee provides comments on the preliminary Plans, the third party engineering vendor will prepare the final plans, which include architectural and engineering plans consistent with the information provided by the franchisee.