Under what conditions will Bambu approve the franchisee's choice of architect and general contractor?
Bambu Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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. This expertise must ensure that the plans, approvals, and permits are obtained, and the project is properly overseen.
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. This implies that Bambu retains the right to mandate the use of specific service providers if they deem the franchisee's initial choices inadequate.
Furthermore, Bambu may require franchisees to use a company that will supervise the buildout of their Bambu shoppe if Bambu determines, in its sole discretion, that the architect or contractor the franchisee intends to use has insufficient knowledge and experience to build a Bambu shoppe. This highlights the importance of selecting experienced professionals who meet Bambu's standards to avoid potential additional oversight or mandated service providers, which could increase costs and reduce the franchisee's autonomy in the construction process.