What is the deadline for an Aw franchisee to have a leased site approved by Aw from the date of the Franchise Agreement?
Aw Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must have leased a site for the Premises which has been approved by us within one hundred eighty (180) days of the date of this Agreement.
We have the unilateral right (but not the obligation) to terminate this Agreement upon notice to you if you have not signed a lease for a site approved by us for your Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant within one hundred eighty (180) from the date of this Agreement.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 39–40)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Aw's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee must have a leased site approved by Aw within 180 days from the date of the Franchise Agreement. This is a critical deadline, as Aw retains the right to terminate the agreement if a lease for an approved site is not secured within this timeframe.
This requirement underscores the importance of proactive site selection and lease negotiation. Prospective Aw franchisees should begin their site search immediately upon signing the Franchise Agreement and work closely with Aw to ensure the chosen location meets their criteria for approval. The FDD states that Aw may provide site selection assistance, but the responsibility for finding a suitable location ultimately falls on the franchisee.
The approval process involves submitting a site evaluation form, a letter of intent, and the proposed lease to Aw for review. Aw will then provide written notice of approval or disapproval within 30 days of receiving the complete proposal. Franchisees should factor this review period into their timeline to avoid delays. Given the potential for termination if the deadline is missed, franchisees may want to build in a buffer to account for unforeseen circumstances or potential rejections.
It is also important to note that any lease or sublease of the premises must be approved by Aw before it is executed. Aw can also require certain terms and provisions to be included in the lease. This highlights the need for open communication and collaboration with Aw throughout the leasing process to ensure compliance with their requirements and avoid potential conflicts or delays.