Can I purchase unbranded furniture and fixtures for my Bang Cookies shop from any supplier?
Bang_Cookies Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Your Shop must be equipped with branded and unbranded furniture and fixtures that we designate and that meet our standards and specifications.
You may purchase unbranded furniture and fixtures from any supplier of your choosing, provided that the furniture and fixtures meet our specifications and standards, which may also include specified manufacturers, brands and models.
If the furniture and fixtures that we designate are specified to be branded with the Licensed Marks, then you may only purchase them from our designated exclusive suppliers.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 24–28)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Bang Cookies's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees have some flexibility in sourcing unbranded furniture and fixtures. Specifically, you can purchase unbranded furniture and fixtures from any supplier, provided they meet Bang Cookies' standards and specifications. These standards may include specific manufacturers, brands, and models. However, if Bang Cookies designates certain furniture and fixtures to be branded with their Licensed Marks, you must purchase those items exclusively from Bang Cookies' designated suppliers.
This distinction between branded and unbranded items is important for maintaining brand consistency while allowing franchisees some control over costs. The FDD emphasizes that Bang Cookies has the right to modify standards and specifications for products and services based on industry experience and management decisions, so these requirements could change over time. Franchisees will be notified of any changes to the approved supplier list through various means, including written or electronic correspondence and updates to the manuals.
If a franchisee wishes to use a supplier not already approved by Bang Cookies, they must submit a written request for approval, along with any information, samples, and testing data that Bang Cookies may require. Bang Cookies may also charge a fee to cover the costs of reviewing and evaluating the alternate supplier. They may also inspect the supplier's facilities. Bang Cookies will then notify the franchisee of their decision within a reasonable time, not exceeding 60 days after receiving the request and all required information. However, Bang Cookies retains the sole discretion to withhold approval.
Bang Cookies estimates that purchases from approved suppliers, including designated exclusive suppliers, will account for approximately 80% of the total purchases and leases when establishing the franchised business. For ongoing operating expenses, these purchases represent about 60%. This highlights the importance of understanding and adhering to Bang Cookies' sourcing requirements to ensure compliance and maintain the brand's standards.