If an Aplus franchisee conducts independent advertising and promotions, what is the deadline for Aplus to approve or deny the request?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Any advertising and promotions conducted by you independently of those conducted by us must be reviewed and approved by us prior to implementation and must be in accordance with our standards and specifications. Any request not approved within 30 days of submission will be deemed not approved. You must promptly discontinue the use of any materials, media, or method of distribution promptly upon receipt of written notice from us.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 40–47)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, any advertising and promotions that a franchisee conducts independently must be reviewed and approved by Aplus prior to implementation. Aplus has 30 days to approve or deny the request. If a request is not approved within 30 days of submission, it will be deemed not approved.
This means that franchisees need to plan ahead and submit any independent advertising or promotional materials well in advance of when they want to use them. If Aplus does not respond within 30 days, the franchisee cannot proceed with the advertising or promotion. This requirement ensures that all advertising and promotional activities align with Aplus's brand standards and specifications.
It is important for prospective franchisees to understand this requirement and factor it into their marketing plans. Failure to obtain approval or waiting until the last minute could result in delays or the inability to run a planned promotion. Franchisees should also maintain records of their submissions to Aplus and the dates of submission to ensure they can track the 30-day approval window.