What specific certificate is required in Illinois for Aw franchisees and employees?
Aw Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You will need to obtain the proper food and beverage license from the proper licensing agencies. In Illinois you and other employees must obtain a food service sanitation code certificate. Other jurisdictions may have similar requirements. You must comply with all local, state and federal health and sanitation laws and menu labeling laws applicable to businesses selling food and beverages. You are solely responsible for complying with all applicable labor and employment laws in operating your Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant. For franchisees in Illinois, new laws that became effective January 1, 2020 require businesses to meet specific sexual harassment prevention and training requirements, and require restaurant businesses specifically to implement and provide to employees a written sexual harassment policy. There may be other laws and codes applicable to your business. You must investigate all applicable laws, regulations and codes to find out what you need to do to comply.
Source: Item 1 — THE FRANCHISOR AND ANY PARENTS, PREDECESSORS AND AFFILIATES (FDD pages 10–11)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Aw's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees in Illinois, along with their employees, are required to obtain a food service sanitation code certificate. This requirement ensures that individuals handling food are trained in proper sanitation practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.
This is a standard requirement in the food service industry, as many states and localities mandate food safety training and certification for employees. The purpose is to protect public health by ensuring that food is prepared and served in a safe and hygienic environment. Aw franchisees must comply with all local, state, and federal health and sanitation laws, including menu labeling laws.
Additionally, Aw franchisees in Illinois must also adhere to new laws effective January 1, 2020, which require businesses to meet specific sexual harassment prevention and training requirements. Restaurant businesses, in particular, must implement and provide employees with a written sexual harassment policy. Franchisees are responsible for investigating and complying with all applicable laws, regulations, and codes relevant to their business operations.