Can Papa Ray's Pizza or its affiliates be approved suppliers for Aw franchisees?

According to Aw's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Aw franchisees are required to purchase fixtures, furniture, signs, materials, products, and supplies from approved distributors and suppliers. These approved suppliers may include Aw or its affiliates. Aw maintains a list of approved suppliers that franchisees must adhere to.

The FDD emphasizes that the reputation of Aw restaurants relies on high-quality products and services. To maintain this standard, Aw has developed specific standards and specifications for various items used in connection with the products and services offered at Aw restaurants. These standards cover product quality, prices, consistency, reliability, financial capability, labor relations, and customer relations.

Furthermore, Aw may develop proprietary products that franchisees are required to purchase from Aw or a limited number of authorized suppliers. This ensures quality control and protects Aw's trade secrets. Franchisees must maintain sufficient inventory of these proprietary products as specified by Aw. Therefore, Papa Ray's Pizza or its affiliates could potentially become approved suppliers if they meet Aw's standards and specifications.