What is the definition of 'reasonable intervals' regarding the frequency of required maintenance for a Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant operated by Aw?
Aw Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You agree that:
- (a) neither the Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant nor the Premises will be used for any purpose other than the operation of a Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant in compliance with this Agreement;
- (b) you will maintain the condition and appearance of the Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant, its fixtures, furniture, equipment, and signs and the Premises in accordance with our standards and consistent with the image of a Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant as an efficiently operated business offering high quality products and services and observing the highest standards of efficient and courteous service; In that connection, you agree to take, without limitation, the following actions during the term of this Agreement: (1) thorough cleaning, repainting and redecorating of the interior and exterior of the Premises at reasonable intervals; (2) interior and exterior repair of the Premises; and (3) repair or replacement of damaged, worn out or obsolete fixtures, furniture, equipment, and signs;
- (c) you will not make any material alterations to the Premises or to the appearance of the Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant, as originally developed, without our prior written approval. If you do so, we have the right, at your expense, to rectify alterations we have not previously approved;
- (d) you will replace or add new equipment and fixtures when we reasonably specify in order to meet changing standards or accommodate new services, new products and new methods of providing and displaying the new products and services;
- (e) on notice from us at reasonable intervals, but not more often than once every five (5) years, you will upgrade, refurbish and redecorate the Premises, at your expense, to conform to the building design, trade dress, color schemes, and presentation of the Marks in a manner consistent with the then-current image for new Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurants or of new or refurbished company-owned or affiliate-owned operations. Such upgrades, refurbishing and redecoration may include, without limitation, structural changes, remodeling, refurnishing, redecoration, installation of new equipment, and modifications to existing improvements. (All actual changes will be subject to our prior written approval); and
- (f) you will place or display at the Premises (interior and exterior) only those signs, emblems, designs, artwork, lettering, logos, and display and advertising materials that we from time to time approve.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 39–40)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Aw's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to maintain the condition and appearance of their Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant. This includes thorough cleaning, repainting, and redecorating of both the interior and exterior of the premises at 'reasonable intervals.' However, the term 'reasonable intervals' is not specifically defined within the provided excerpts.
While the FDD does not provide a concrete definition of 'reasonable intervals,' it does state that Aw can provide notice to franchisees to upgrade, refurbish, and redecorate the premises at reasonable intervals, but not more often than once every five years. This gives some context as to what Aw considers reasonable for major upgrades, but does not clarify the frequency for regular maintenance.
Because the term 'reasonable intervals' is subjective and open to interpretation, prospective franchisees should seek clarification from Aw regarding the expected frequency of maintenance tasks. Understanding Aw's expectations for routine maintenance will help franchisees budget for these expenses and ensure compliance with the franchise agreement. Franchisees should also inquire about any specific standards or guidelines Aw uses to assess the condition and appearance of the restaurant.