Are there requirements to update or upgrade the smartphone used for a Bambu franchise?
Bambu Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ns from us regarding the operation of your Bambū shoppe, unless you are otherwise notified by us in writing. You are required to regularly use a device that accesses the Internet, which may be a smartphone (or other similar device designated by us) with SMS capability which meets our minimum specifications and obtain a data plan with a reputable wireless carrier which allows you to access the shoppe Email Account and communicate by email on an unlimited basis each day with us and customers of your shoppe. The cost of purchasing a smartphone typically ranges from $100 to $1,200 and the cost of a wireless data plan from a major carrier typically ranges from $30 to $60 per month. There are no requirements to update or upgrade the smartphone. You agree that you have no reasonable expectation to privacy in the information and data communicated, stored or received using the shoppe Email Account and that we have the right to receive and review the information communicated to and from and stored on the shoppe Email Account. We have no contractual limitation on our right to receive information through the shoppe Email Account
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 28–38)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bambu's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are not required to update or upgrade their smartphones. However, franchisees must use a smartphone (or similar device designated by Bambu) with SMS capability that meets Bambu's minimum specifications and obtain a data plan with a reputable wireless carrier. This plan should allow unlimited daily access to the shoppe Email Account and communication via email with both Bambu and customers.
The cost of purchasing a smartphone typically ranges from $100 to $1,200, while a wireless data plan from a major carrier typically costs between $30 and $60 per month. Bambu may assign a shoppe Email Account to each location, which franchisees must use according to Bambu's guidelines. Franchisees are required to review emails daily and promptly respond to customer inquiries and complaints. This email account, or other SMS methods, serves as the primary communication channel from Bambu regarding the operation of the shoppe.
Bambu retains the right to access and review all information communicated, stored, or received through the shoppe Email Account, and franchisees have no expectation of privacy regarding this data. While Bambu does not require independent access to the information stored on a franchisee's smartphone, it is essential for franchisees to maintain a device that meets the minimum specifications to ensure effective communication and operation of the Bambu franchise.