Who is solely responsible for the security of all persons at the Premises, including customers, contractors, and employees, for an Aplus franchise?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- (4) Without limiting your status and obligations as an independent contractor under 2.08(A) above, you shall be solely responsible for implementation and maintenance procedures for safe operation of the APlus Store, including safe cash handling and employee training. Sunoco and you expressly acknowledge that you are solely responsible for the security of all persons at the Premises, including customers, contractors, and employees. Nothing contained in this Lease may be construed as: (a) an assumption by Sunoco of any duty owed by you to any person, including any customer, contractor, or employee; or (b) giving Sunoco the right to control your provision of security measures at the Premises.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 68–302)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is solely responsible for the security of all persons at the Premises, including customers, contractors, and employees. This responsibility is explicitly acknowledged by both Sunoco and the franchisee.
This means that as an Aplus franchisee, you bear the full responsibility for implementing and maintaining security measures at your store. This includes ensuring the safety of everyone on the premises. Sunoco, the franchisor, does not assume any duty for the security of your location, nor do they have the right to control your security measures.
This allocation of responsibility is typical in franchising, where franchisees operate as independent contractors. It is crucial for prospective Aplus franchisees to understand this obligation and factor in the costs associated with providing adequate security when evaluating the franchise opportunity. Franchisees should consult with security professionals to develop appropriate safety protocols and training programs for their employees.