What are the potential financial consequences for an Aplus franchisee who makes unauthorized alterations or modifications to the premises?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
1.23 Alterations to Premises and the Installation of Equipment
- (A) (1) Except with prior written consent of Sunoco, you shall not make additions, alterations, or changes to the Premises, nor erect or add any buildings or other enclosures on the Premises. Additions or alterations made to the Premises by you with the prior written consent of Sunoco shall be performed in a good and workmanlike manner in accordance with Sunoco's engineering standards.
- (2) Except with prior written consent of Sunoco, you shall not place upon the Premises any sign not previously approved by Sunoco or other advertising materials not relating to the diligent, businesslike, and lawful operation of an APlus convenience food store and Motor Fuel service station:
- (3) Except with prior written consent of Sunoco, you shall not cause or permit the installation and location on the Premises of any public pay phones. Such equipment installation is subject to Sunoco's licensing terms and requirements as Lessor. If prior written approval is not obtained, Sunoco has the right to remove such public pay phone at your expense:
- (4) At the end of this Lease, the Premises shall be restored to their original condition at your expense, normal wear and tear excepted. However, Sunoco may in writing waive all or part of this requirement, and may permit your additions and alterations, or any part thereof, to remai
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 68–302)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must obtain prior written consent from Aplus before making any additions, alterations, or changes to the premises. If a franchisee fails to obtain this consent and makes unauthorized modifications, Aplus has the right to remove any unapproved public pay phones installed on the premises at the franchisee's expense.
Furthermore, at the end of the lease term, the franchisee is responsible for restoring the premises to its original condition at their own expense, with exceptions made for normal wear and tear. However, Aplus retains the right to waive this restoration requirement in writing or permit the franchisee's alterations to remain.
These stipulations highlight the importance of adhering to Aplus's standards and obtaining necessary approvals before undertaking any modifications to the franchised location. Failure to comply can result in unexpected expenses for the franchisee, either through the removal of unapproved installations or the mandatory restoration of the premises at the end of the lease.