Is Aw required to provide any assistance in locating an acceptable site for the franchisee?
Aw Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Although we may provide some assistance in locating an acceptable site for you, you are responsible for securing a site. In approving or disapproving a proposed site, we will consider factors such as visibility, traffic count, access to parking, and demographics of the surrounding area. We highly recommend trying to secure a site that already is configured for a restaurant and that contains some existing kitchen fixtures and equipment. You will lease the premises for Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant from independent third parties. Any lease for the premises must include certain terms we require. (Franchise Agreement, Section 4.2 and Exhibit 3 to Franchise Agreement)
If you have not secured a site approved by us within 180 days of signing the Franchise Agreement, we can terminate your franchise.
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, while Aw may provide some assistance in locating a site for a Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant, franchisees are ultimately responsible for securing a location. Aw will provide written notice of approval or disapproval of a proposed site within 30 days of receiving the franchisee's written proposal and required information. In evaluating a potential site, Aw considers factors such as visibility, traffic count, access to parking, and demographics. Aw also recommends securing a site already configured for a restaurant with existing kitchen fixtures and equipment.
Prospective franchisees should note that Aw can terminate the franchise agreement if an approved site is not secured within 180 days of signing the Franchise Agreement. The franchisee will lease the premises from independent third parties, and any lease must include terms required by Aw. This means franchisees need to proactively search for suitable locations, understanding that Aw's approval is necessary and that the lease terms must align with Aw's requirements.
This site selection process is a critical step, as the location significantly impacts the potential success of the Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant. Franchisees should carefully consider Aw's recommendations and approval criteria when evaluating potential sites. Engaging a commercial real estate broker with experience in the restaurant industry may be beneficial in finding and securing an appropriate location that meets both the franchisee's needs and Aw's standards.
Overall, while Aw offers some assistance and must approve the site, the onus is on the franchisee to find and secure an acceptable location within the specified timeframe. This highlights the importance of thorough planning and due diligence in the initial stages of establishing a Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant franchise.