How can a Bang Cookies franchisee obtain a summary statement of the Brand Development Fund's finances?

According to Bang Cookies's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee can obtain a summary statement of the Brand Development Fund's finances by submitting a written request to Bang Cookies. This summary statement will include monies collected and costs incurred by the Brand Development Fund for the franchisor's immediately preceding fiscal year.

This means that franchisees have a right to request and receive information about how the Brand Development Fund is being managed. This fund is supported by mandatory contributions from franchisees, capped at 2% of gross sales for each weekly accounting period. Understanding how these funds are used can help franchisees assess the value and effectiveness of the marketing and advertising efforts supported by the fund.

It is important to note that Bang Cookies is not obligated to segregate Brand Development Fund fees from other assets, and the fund is not structured as a trust. Bang Cookies has considerable discretion over the fund's strategic direction, creative concepts, and geographic allocation. While franchisees contribute to the fund, they are not guaranteed a direct or proportionate benefit in their specific geographic area. Franchisees should be aware that their contributions support the overall brand and system, and they are still obligated to contribute even if they do not perceive a direct benefit.