What kind of internet backup is a Batteries Plus Bulbs licensee required to provide?
Batteries_Plus_Bulbs Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
A. Connectivity. Licensee must provide business-class Internet-based wide-area network (WAN) connectivity from Licensee's site with sufficient bandwidth to meet Licensee's use demands. Licensee must provide cellular Internet backup that meets the Company's then-current specifications. ProSource RMS was designed to operate on business-class DSL bandwidth or greater; Batteries Plus is not responsible for functionality with lesser bandwidth. Licensee must use the current version of Microsoft Internet Explorer or other compatible browser configuration specified by the Company. Licensee will comply with the Company's minimum hardware requirements for the use of ProSource RMS, as disclosed and periodically updated in the Company's confidential franchise operations manuals (the "Operations Manual").
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD page 80)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Batteries Plus Bulbs Franchise Disclosure Document, a licensee must provide a cellular internet backup. This backup must meet the franchisor's current specifications. Additionally, the licensee is required to have business-class Internet-based Wide Area Network (WAN) connectivity from their site, ensuring sufficient bandwidth for their operational needs. The ProSource RMS software is designed to operate on business-class DSL bandwidth or greater. Batteries Plus Bulbs is not responsible for functionality with lesser bandwidth. Licensees must also use the current version of Microsoft Internet Explorer or another compatible browser configuration as specified by the company.
This requirement ensures that Batteries Plus Bulbs franchisees have a reliable internet connection for business operations, particularly for accessing the ProSource RMS software and other online systems. The cellular internet backup provides a safety net in case the primary internet connection fails, minimizing disruptions to business activities. By specifying business-class internet and browser compatibility, Batteries Plus Bulbs aims to maintain a consistent and efficient technological environment across all franchise locations.
Prospective franchisees should consider the costs associated with maintaining both a business-class internet connection and a cellular backup. They should also inquire about the specific bandwidth requirements and the company's current specifications for cellular internet backup to ensure they can meet these standards. It is also important to stay updated with any changes to the minimum hardware and software requirements outlined in the Operations Manual to maintain compliance and optimal system performance.