What is the Aplus franchisee's responsibility for obtaining permits and ensuring compliance with laws and ordinances related to signage?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- (b) Signs: Franchisee shall prominently display, at the Franchisee's expense, both on the interior and exterior of the Franchised Business premises, signs in such form, color, number, location and size, and containing such Marks as the Franchisor designates. The Franchisor also may require the Franchisee to use illuminated signs. The Franchisee shall obtain all permits and licenses required for such signs and will also be responsible for ensuring that all signs comply with laws and ordinances. The Franchisee shall not display in or upon the Franchised Business premises any sign or advertising of any kind to which the Franchisor objects. The Franchisor reserves the right to require the Franchisee to update the signage ant any time at the Franchisee's expense.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 68–302)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is responsible for obtaining all necessary permits and licenses for signage and ensuring that all signs comply with relevant laws and ordinances. This includes signs displayed both inside and outside the franchised business premises. Aplus designates the form, color, number, location, and size of the signs, and may require the franchisee to use illuminated signs.
This means that a prospective Aplus franchisee must budget for the costs associated with obtaining these permits and licenses. They also need to stay informed about local regulations regarding signage, which can vary significantly from one location to another. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in fines or other penalties.
Furthermore, Aplus retains the right to require the franchisee to update the signage at any time, and the franchisee will bear the expense of these updates. The franchisee cannot display any sign or advertising that Aplus objects to. This gives Aplus significant control over the franchisee's signage and advertising, ensuring brand consistency across all locations. Franchisees need to factor in potential future costs for signage updates when evaluating the franchise opportunity.