Does Bambu require prior written consent of the architect and general contractor?
Bambu Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Once a lease is signed, you will need to obtain permits and begin construction of the shoppe as quickly as possible in order to avoid paying rent before your Bambū shoppe is open for business. This will require, in most instances, retaining an architect and general contractor at or before the lease is signed. You must obtain our prior written consent of your architect and general contractor. We will not withhold our approval of the architectural firm or general contractor provided they can demonstrate they have sufficient expertise in commercial retail design work to ensure that the plans, approvals and permits are obtained and overview of the project is accomplished. If we do not approve your designated architect or general contractor, we may require that you engage an architectural firm or general contractor designated by us.
Source: Item 8 — Restrictions on Sources of Products and Services (FDD pages 22–26)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bambu's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must obtain Bambu's prior written consent for their choice of architect and general contractor. Bambu will not withhold approval if the architect and general contractor can demonstrate sufficient expertise in commercial retail design work to ensure that the plans, approvals, and permits are obtained and the project is properly managed. However, if Bambu does not approve the franchisee's designated architect or general contractor, Bambu may require the franchisee to engage an architectural firm or general contractor designated by Bambu.
Furthermore, franchisees must consult with Bambu and receive approval for the shoppe layout, equipment layout, mechanical drawings, and construction documents, and these cannot be altered without prior written approval from Bambu. Franchisees are responsible for the costs of constructing, converting, designing, decorating, and furnishing the Franchised Location according to the final plans and specifications approved by Bambu.
Before submitting materials for permitting and construction, franchisees must prepare final architectural drawings based on Bambu's standards and specifications and submit them to Bambu for review and approval. Franchisees cannot change the plans once Bambu approves them without obtaining additional prior written approval. If changes are made without Bambu's knowledge or approval, Bambu may require the franchisee to conform the shoppe to the approved plans before opening to the public. Bambu also reserves the right to require franchisees to use a company that will supervise the buildout of their Bambu shoppe if they determine that the franchisee's chosen architect or contractor lacks sufficient knowledge and experience.