If an Aplus franchisee relocates their franchised business, who is responsible for covering the expenses associated with the relocation?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Franchisee shall not relocate the Franchised Business without the prior written consent of Franchisor. If the parties do not agree upon a substitute site within ninety (90) days after Sunoco's receipt of your notice, this Agreement shall terminate as provided in Section 16.2.1. Any such relocation shall be at Franchisee's sole expense, and shall proceed in accordance with the Sunoco's then-current requirements and specifications. You agree to enter into a new APLUS Franchise Agreement for the balance of the term of this Agreement, however you will not be required to pay a new franchise fee.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 68–302)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee is responsible for the expenses associated with relocating their franchised business. The FDD states that any relocation of the franchised business must be at the franchisee's sole expense and must adhere to Aplus's requirements and specifications at that time.
Before relocating, the franchisee must obtain prior written consent from Aplus. If the franchisee and Aplus cannot agree on a substitute site within 90 days after Aplus receives the franchisee's notice, the Franchise Agreement will terminate.
Despite a relocation, the franchisee will be required to enter into a new Aplus Franchise Agreement for the remaining term of the original agreement. However, the franchisee will not be required to pay a new franchise fee.