For Aplus franchisees, what is the deadline for the Franchisor to provide notice of approval or disapproval of advertising and promotional materials submitted for pre-approval?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Franchisee shall submit to Franchisor, for its prior approval, all advertising and promotional materials to be used by Franchisee including, but not limited to, billboards, television ads, radio ads, ad copy, coupons, flyers, scripts, sponsorships, and direct mail. Franchisor shall use reasonable efforts to provide notice of approval or disapproval within thirty (30) days from the date all requested material is received by Franchisor. If Franchisor does not approve submitted materials by the end of such thirty (30) day period, such materials shall be deemed to have not received the required approval. Franchisee shall not use any marketing or promotional material prior to written approval by Franchisor.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 68–302)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee submits advertising and promotional materials to Aplus for pre-approval, Aplus must provide notice of approval or disapproval within thirty days from the date all requested material is received. If Aplus fails to respond within this 30-day period, the materials are considered not approved.
This requirement ensures that Aplus franchisees receive timely feedback on their advertising materials, allowing them to proceed with their marketing efforts without undue delay. However, the franchisee bears the risk of implied disapproval if they do not receive explicit approval within the specified timeframe.
It is important for prospective Aplus franchisees to understand this approval process and factor it into their marketing timelines. Franchisees should maintain clear records of their submissions and follow up with Aplus if they do not receive a response within the 30-day period to avoid unintentional use of unapproved materials. This clause is fairly standard in franchising, as franchisors want to maintain brand consistency and control over marketing messages.