Under what condition will Bambu approve my choice of architectural firm?
Bambu Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Note 3: Final Architectural Drawings, Permits, and Approvals. You must prepare all final architectural drawings required by the jurisdiction where your shoppe is located and have signed approval by us based on our standards and specifications. This includes a full set of plans for permitting and approvals, which must be approved by us, the governmental authority that issues the permits and approvals for your jurisdiction, and your landlord. You will select the architectural firm to prepare your architectural drawings design, who must be approved by us. We will not withhold our approval of your architectural firm provided it can demonstrate it has sufficient expertise in commercial retail design work to ensure that the plans, approvals and permits are obtained, and overview of the project is accomplished. Once we approve the final plans, they cannot be changed without our prior written approval. If you change the plans or the construction of your Bambū shoppe without our knowledge or prior written approval, we may require your Bambū shoppe to conform to the approved plans before you can open your Bambū shoppe to the public.
Source: Item 7 — (FDD pages 18–22)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bambu's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, you are responsible for selecting an architectural firm to prepare the drawings for your shoppe's design. Bambu must approve your choice of architectural firm. However, Bambu will not withhold approval if the firm can demonstrate sufficient expertise in commercial retail design work. This expertise must ensure that the necessary plans, approvals, and permits are obtained, and that the project is properly managed.
This means that as a prospective franchisee, you have the freedom to choose your architectural firm, but you need to ensure that the firm you select has a proven track record in commercial retail design. This requirement protects both you and Bambu by ensuring that the architectural plans meet all regulatory requirements and align with Bambu's brand standards. Failing to choose a qualified firm could lead to delays, increased costs, or non-compliance issues.
Once the final architectural plans are approved by Bambu, they cannot be changed without prior written approval from Bambu. If you alter the plans or the construction of your Bambu shoppe without Bambu's knowledge or written consent, Bambu may require you to modify your shoppe to conform to the approved plans before you can open to the public. This underscores the importance of adhering to the approved plans and communicating any necessary changes to Bambu in advance to avoid potential issues and additional expenses.