Is it required that employees of an Aw Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant complete pre-opening training?
Aw Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You may not open your Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant for business until: (1) you have completed the build-out of the restaurant premises and installed all fixtures, furniture and equipment; (2) we determine that your Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant has been constructed, equipped, decorated and stocked with inventory, materials and supplies in accordance with plans and specifications we have approved; (3) you and any operating manager have completed our initial training and your employees have completed pre-opening training to our satisfaction; (4) the initial franchise fee has been paid in full; and (5) you have furnished us with evidence of required insurance coverage.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 22–29)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Aw's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, pre-opening training for employees is mandatory before opening a Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant. Specifically, the franchisee cannot open for business until "you and any operating manager have completed our initial training and your employees have completed pre-opening training to our satisfaction".
This requirement ensures that all staff members are adequately prepared to deliver the Aw standard of service and quality from day one. The franchisee is responsible for ensuring their employees meet this training requirement, which Aw must deem satisfactory.
In addition to pre-opening training, Aw also provides on-site start-up assistance and training to the franchisee, their manager, and employees for 3 days around the time the restaurant opens for business. This additional support helps to reinforce initial training and address any immediate operational needs.
Prospective franchisees should factor in the time and potential costs associated with employee training when planning their restaurant launch. While Aw does not charge a fee for the initial training program for up to 2 people, franchisees are responsible for all compensation, travel, lodging, and other living expenses incurred by them and any manager attending training.