What is the role of Sunoco Retail LLC in relation to Aplus franchises, and where does it primarily operate?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
mendment (if applicable | | Attachment F | Form of Franchise Agreement |
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
THIS DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT ("Agreement") is made and entered into as of the effective date ("Effective Date") reflected in the Summary Page, by and between Sunoco Retail LLC, a Pennsylvania limited liability company, with its principal office in Dallas, Texas ("Franchisor"), and the Developer identified in the Summary Pages ("you").
- A. Franchisor and its Affiliates have developed, and are in the process of further developing, a System relating to the establishment and operation of a full-line retail grocery convenience store that offers fast foods, prepackaged foods, beverages, sundries, and other convenience store goods identified principally by the trademark APLUS, along with, under certain circumstances and as authorized by Franchisor, a gasoline fueling station and related petroleum products identified principally by the trademark SUNOCO (the "System").
- B. The distinguishing characteristics of the System include, without limitation, distinctive interior and exterior design, decor, color scheme, graphics, fixtures and furnishings, operation and customer service standards and procedures, advertising and marketing specifications and requirements, and other standards, specifications, techniques, and procedures that Franchisor designates for developing, operating, and managing an APLUS store and/or SUNOCO fueling station, all of which Franchisor may change, improve, and further develop (collectively, "Standards").
- C.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 68)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Sunoco Retail LLC acts as the franchisor for Aplus stores. The Development Agreement outlines the relationship between Sunoco Retail LLC and the developer (franchisee), granting the franchisee the right to develop branded stores or fueling stations under the Aplus and Sunoco trademarks. Sunoco Retail LLC is responsible for developing the system related to the establishment and operation of Aplus retail grocery convenience stores and Sunoco fueling stations. This includes setting standards for store design, operation, customer service, advertising, and marketing.
Sunoco Retail LLC owns and operates retail stores that sell motor fuel and merchandise primarily in New Jersey. It also leases owned sites to commission agents who sell motor fuels on Sunoco Retail's behalf for a commission. This indicates that while Sunoco Retail LLC franchises Aplus stores, it also directly operates retail locations.
Prospective franchisees should understand that Sunoco Retail LLC, as the franchisor, has the authority to make changes to the Aplus system, including store design and operational standards. Franchisees are required to adhere to these standards. Additionally, franchisees should be aware that Sunoco Retail LLC also operates its own retail stores, which could potentially create a conflict of interest or competition in certain markets. Franchisees should carefully review the Development Agreement and Franchise Agreement to fully understand their rights and obligations.