What is the scope of 'modifications to existing improvements' that Aw may require during upgrades, refurbishing, and redecoration of the Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant?

According to Aw's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisor can require franchisees to upgrade, refurbish, and redecorate their Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant premises at reasonable intervals, but not more often than once every five years. These changes are at the franchisee's expense and must conform to the current image for new Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurants or newly renovated company-owned or affiliate-owned locations.

The scope of these changes may include structural changes, remodeling, refurnishing, redecoration, installation of new equipment, and modifications to existing improvements. All actual changes, however, are subject to Aw's prior written approval. This means that while Aw can mandate these updates, the franchisee has to get approval for the specific plans and execution.

This requirement ensures that all Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant locations maintain a consistent brand image and meet evolving customer expectations. For a prospective franchisee, this signifies a recurring investment every few years to keep the restaurant up-to-date. It is important to budget for these potential expenses and understand that Aw has significant control over the nature and extent of the required modifications. Franchisees should seek clarity from Aw regarding the typical cost and scope of these upgrades to better prepare for these future expenditures.