What costs does the Auntie Annes Technology Fee defray?

According to Auntie Annes' 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Technology Fee is used to cover the costs associated with technology-related products, services, programs, systems, or platforms that Auntie Annes deems appropriate. These costs include the development, implementation, upgrading, operating, maintaining, and supporting of these technology-related items. The Technology Fee may be based on a percentage of Net Sales, fixed fees, and/or usage fees. Auntie Annes may modify the Technology Fee and payment frequency from time to time. They may also replace or supplement other technology-related fees, such as the Ordering Support Fee, with the Technology Fee.

For a prospective Auntie Annes franchisee, this means that a portion of their ongoing fees will be allocated to maintaining and improving the technological infrastructure of the franchise system. This could include point-of-sale systems, online ordering platforms, or other digital tools used to manage and operate the business. The fee structure may vary, potentially impacting franchisees differently based on their sales volume or usage of specific technologies.

It's important to note that Auntie Annes retains sole discretion over how the Technology Fee is used and can modify the products, services, programs, systems, and platforms funded by the fee. This provides Auntie Annes with flexibility to adapt to changing technological landscapes but also means that franchisees may not have direct control over how these funds are allocated. Franchisees should stay informed about any changes to the Technology Fee and the technology-related products and services it supports to understand the value they are receiving.