What is an APLUS Retail Automation Program, and where is it further described?
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. The specifics of this program, including automated communications equipment, hardware, and software requirements for operating the APLUS Store and its electronic point-of-sale (EPOS) systems, are detailed further in the Manual.
During the franchise term, franchisees are responsible for ensuring that all necessary automated systems are installed, maintained, and upgraded according to Aplus's standards. Aplus may also require franchisees to install additional communication equipment like fax machines, scanners, or printers, and to maintain email capabilities.
Franchisees are prohibited from installing any unauthorized software or hardware to the computer system without prior written approval from Aplus. Aplus retains unlimited access to all data compiled within the APLUS Retail Automation Program. The computer system and EPOS must be dedicated solely to the APLUS Store business, unless Aplus provides written authorization for other uses. All sales must be processed through the approved EPOS systems, and no other supplemental systems are allowed.
In addition to the APLUS Retail Automation Program, Aplus may require franchisees to participate in other proprietary programs or specific merchandise programs, as described in the Manual or developed in the future. These programs may include proprietary payment systems, specific product offerings, approved prepaid programs, ATM programs, and APLUS rewards or customer loyalty programs. Aplus is not obligated to test any program before requiring franchisee participation and reserves the right to determine which franchisees may participate in specific programs.