Is an Aplus franchisee required to engage third-party service providers for quality assurance audits and mystery shops, and if so, who bears the cost?

According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Aplus franchisees may be required to engage third-party service providers for quality assurance audits and mystery shops. The franchisee is responsible for covering the costs associated with these third-party services. Aplus retains the right to conduct its own quality assurance audits, including mystery shops, using its personnel.

Aplus may charge $300 per quality assurance inspection if performed by Aplus personnel. Alternatively, Aplus may charge the actual costs of a mystery shop, plus reasonable administrative expenses up to $300. This means that franchisees could potentially face expenses for both franchisor-led and third-party quality checks.

This requirement ensures that Aplus maintains consistent service standards across all franchised locations. Franchisees should factor these potential costs into their operating budget and understand that these audits are designed to assess customer satisfaction and overall business performance. Engaging designated third-party service providers for periodic quality assurance audits and mystery shops is at the franchisee's sole cost and expense.