If I operate two Aplus stores, what are the weekday time obligations at each location?

According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, if you operate two Aplus stores, you must be present at both locations for a combined total of no less than 40 hours per week. This includes being present at each location for a minimum of two weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. In addition to your presence, Aplus requires that you employ at least one full-time employee at each location who has successfully completed the Aplus initial training program.

This requirement ensures that franchisees are actively involved in their businesses, which can help maintain quality and customer service standards. The specified weekday hours likely aim to cover peak business times, ensuring managerial oversight during critical periods. The mandatory trained employee at each location provides a baseline of competence and adherence to Aplus's operational standards, even when the franchisee is not present.

For a prospective franchisee, this means carefully planning your time and staffing. If you plan to operate two Aplus locations, you will need to allocate your time to meet the 40-hour combined presence requirement and ensure that each store has a trained full-time employee. This may require significant personal time investment or hiring reliable managers to cover the required hours. Failing to meet these obligations could result in non-compliance with the franchise agreement and potential penalties.

It is important to note that these are minimum requirements. Depending on the performance and needs of your Aplus stores, you may need to dedicate more time to ensure their success. Additionally, the FDD mentions that these obligations apply to Leased and Non-Leased Aplus stores, but additional operational requirements may apply to Captive Market Aplus franchises, so it's important to clarify any additional requirements based on the specific type of franchise you are considering.