Can Batteries Plus Bulbs unilaterally reduce the scope of a franchisee's obligations under the agreement?

According to the 2025 Batteries Plus Bulbs FDD, Batteries Plus Bulbs has the right to unilaterally reduce the scope of a franchisee's obligations under the franchise agreement. Batteries Plus Bulbs must provide notice to the franchisee when making these changes. This clause provides Batteries Plus Bulbs with flexibility to adjust the requirements placed on franchisees as market conditions, legal requirements, or the Batteries Plus Bulbs business model evolve.

For a prospective franchisee, this means that the specific duties and responsibilities outlined in the franchise agreement could be lessened during the term of the agreement. While a reduction in obligations could be seen as a positive, franchisees should seek clarification on what circumstances might lead to Batteries Plus Bulbs reducing the scope of obligations. It is important to understand that this clause does not allow the franchisee to unilaterally reduce their own obligations.

Franchisees should consider this clause carefully and discuss with Batteries Plus Bulbs examples of how this provision might be applied. Understanding the potential implications of such changes is crucial for making an informed decision about investing in a Batteries Plus Bulbs franchise. It is also important to note that the FDD does not specify what form the notice must take, so a franchisee should seek clarification on this point as well.