Can a Beef O Bradys franchisee use an architect of their choosing for construction plans?
Beef_O_Bradys Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We will provide you with the contact information for our brand-certified architects (each, a "Certified Architect"), who you must use to prepare the initial prototype design plans, elevation drawings, specifications, decor and layout (which include: (a) general layout plans; (b) building elevations; and (c) kitchen and bar plans for a Family Sports Pub, including requirements for design, color scheme, image, interior, layout, Operating Assets (which include fixtures, equipment, signs, and furnishings) and build out schedule for the Family Sports Pub (collectively, the "Required Preliminary Plans").
You are obligated to have prepared, at your sole expense, by either the Certified Architect or another architect of your choosing (subject to our advance approval) all required complete construction plans and specifications (beyond the Required Preliminary Plans) to suit the shape and dimensions of the Site and to ensure that such plans and specifications comply with applicable ordinances, building codes and permit requirements and with lease requirements and restrictions.
You agree to submit construction plans and specifications to us for approval before construction of the Family Sports Pub is commenced and, at our request, submit all revised or "as built" plans and specifications during the course of such construction.
At your request, to the extent we deem necessary, we will assist you in developing the Family Sports Pub by recommending contractors, other suppliers and otherwise furnishing information to assist you in developing the Family Sports Pub in accordance with our specifications.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS. (FDD pages 66–330)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Beef O Bradys' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees have some flexibility in choosing an architect for construction plans, but with conditions. Initially, Beef O Bradys will provide contact information for their brand-certified architects, and franchisees must use one of these Certified Architects to prepare the initial prototype design plans, elevation drawings, specifications, decor, and layout. These initial plans cover general layout, building elevations, and kitchen and bar plans, including design, color scheme, image, interior, layout, operating assets, and build-out schedule.
However, for the complete construction plans and specifications beyond the initial prototype plans, a franchisee can use either a Certified Architect or another architect of their choosing. This flexibility is subject to advance approval from Beef O Bradys. The franchisee is responsible for ensuring that these plans suit the site's shape and dimensions and comply with all applicable ordinances, building codes, permit requirements, and lease requirements and restrictions.
Before construction begins, the franchisee must submit these construction plans and specifications to Beef O Bradys for approval. During construction, Beef O Bradys may request revised or "as built" plans and specifications. Beef O Bradys may also assist in developing the Family Sports Pub by recommending contractors and other suppliers, and furnishing information to help the franchisee develop the pub according to their specifications.