What is the Aplus Retail Automation Program?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
You must comply with our APLUS Retail Automation Program as further described in the Manual.
During the term of this Agreement, you will insure that all automated communications equipment, hardware and software, as further detailed in the Manual, necessary for the operation of the APLUS Store and the electronic point-of sale ("EPOS") systems is installed, maintained, and upgraded in accordance with our then-current standards.
Additionally, Sunoco may require you to install communications equipment, such as a fax machine, scanner, or printer, and to have the capability to send and/or receive electronic mail through your computer.
You are not permitted to install any software, hardware, or other equipment, or alter any software or hardware, that is in or part of the computer system not previously approved in writing by Franchisor.
You acknowledge and agree that Sunoco will have unlimited access to the data compiled and contained in the APLUS Retail Automation Program.
The computer system and/or EPOS for your APLUS Store will be dedicated to the operation of the APLUS Store business and used for no other purpose unless otherwise authorized by the Franchisor in writing.
All sales must be processed through the approved EPOS systems and reported as Gross Sales and no other supplemental or secondary EPOS system may be used.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 68–302)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must comply with the APLUS Retail Automation Program, which is further detailed in the Manual. Franchisees are responsible for ensuring that all automated communications equipment, hardware, and software necessary for the APLUS Store's operation and electronic point-of-sale (EPOS) systems are installed, maintained, and upgraded according to Aplus's current standards.
Additionally, Aplus may require franchisees to install communications equipment like fax machines, scanners, or printers, and to have the capability to send and receive electronic mail through their computers. Franchisees are not allowed to install or alter any software or hardware that is part of the computer system without prior written approval from Aplus. Aplus retains unlimited access to the data compiled and contained within the APLUS Retail Automation Program.
The computer system and EPOS for the APLUS Store must be dedicated to the store's business operations and used for no other purpose unless authorized in writing by Aplus. All sales must be processed through the approved EPOS systems and reported as Gross Sales, and no supplemental or secondary EPOS systems are allowed. This ensures that Aplus has a consistent and reliable method for tracking sales and managing the overall operation of the franchise.
In practical terms, this means that franchisees must invest in and maintain specific technology systems dictated by Aplus, and they must adhere to strict guidelines regarding the use of these systems. This could involve upfront costs for equipment and ongoing expenses for maintenance and upgrades. The franchisee also relinquishes control over the data generated by these systems, granting Aplus full access. Aplus also has the right to change the system requirements or providers with a minimum of thirty days notice, and increase the monthly fee to reflect any additional expenses incurred in connection with the system/provider change.