Who is responsible for travel and living expenses incurred during Bambu's Training Program?

According to Bambu's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is responsible for covering all travel, lodging, meal expenses, and wages incurred by themselves and their employees while attending the Training Program. Bambu does not provide any compensation to training participants during this period. This means that franchisees must budget not only for the direct costs of training, such as the initial franchise fee, but also for the indirect costs associated with sending their team to the training program.

Specifically, Bambu requires three individuals designated as "Bambū Certified Team Leaders" to attend and successfully complete the Training Program. If the franchisee sends more than three individuals, Bambu may charge an additional training fee for each extra person. The Training Program consists of approximately 88 hours over about 11 combined days of pre- and post-opening training and consultation, plus seven days of opening training. Additionally, the franchisee and one other designated Bambu Certified Team Leader must attend a two-day preopening owner operations orientation and training program in Grand Prairie, Texas, or another approved location, further adding to the potential travel and living expenses.

Furthermore, Bambu may require franchisees or their employees to attend additional training courses or an annual meeting of all Bambu franchise owners. The franchisee is responsible for all costs and expenses associated with attending these events, including travel, meals, lodging, and employee compensation. This ongoing investment in training and development is a common practice in franchising to ensure consistent brand standards and operational efficiency, but it represents a significant financial commitment for the franchisee beyond the initial setup costs.