What restrictions does an Aplus franchisee face regarding changes to the building, plan, design, layout, decor, equipment, or signage of the franchised business?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
s Section 10.2. and the construction requirement under this Agreement including Attachment 1 of this Agreement, shall be the renovation of the Franchised Business in accordance with the provisions of the predecessor franchise agreement. The Franchisor on its sole discretion, may allow the Franchisee to complete the renovation after signing this Agreement, the renovation must be completed in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement and any attachment thereto by the date specified by the Franchisor.
- (a) Franchisee shall make no changes to any building, plan, design, layout or décor, or any equipment or signage in the Franchise business without our prior written consent, and such changes may not be contrary to required specifications.
- (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.
- (c) Services: The Franchisee shall conform to all quality and customer services standards prescribed by the Franchisor in writing.
10.3.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 68–302)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees face significant restrictions on altering the appearance and equipment of their franchised business. Franchisees cannot make changes to the building, plan, design, layout, decor, equipment, or signage without Aplus's prior written consent, and any changes must adhere to required specifications.
Aplus designates the signs that franchisees must prominently display at their own expense, both inside and outside the premises, including the form, color, number, location, size, and the specific marks to be used. Aplus can also require franchisees to use illuminated signs and update signage at any time, with the franchisee bearing the costs. Franchisees must obtain all necessary permits and licenses for the signs and ensure they comply with all applicable laws and ordinances. Franchisees cannot display any sign or advertising that Aplus objects to.
Before the store opens, franchisees must obtain and install Aplus-designated store equipment that meets Aplus's specifications from approved suppliers. Franchisees must also adhere to Aplus's ongoing security, maintenance, and upgrade requirements for the store equipment. Franchisees cannot install or use any store equipment they own or lease from a third party without Aplus's prior written consent. These restrictions ensure uniformity and brand consistency across all Aplus franchise locations.