Does the estimated training cost for a Ben Jerrys franchise include wages or salaries?
Ben_Jerrys Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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- Training expenses will vary, depending on factors such as the number of people attending the training program, the cost of travel to the training site, and the cost of food and accommodations while in attendance. The training costs estimated are for airfare, rental car, hotel, and meals, but do not include other items such as wages or salaries.
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 28–37)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Ben Jerrys's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the estimated initial training costs do not include wages or salaries. The FDD states that training expenses will vary based on the number of people attending, the cost of travel, and the cost of food and accommodations. The estimated training costs of $1,000 to $3,000 cover airfare, rental car, hotel, and meals.
This means that prospective Ben Jerrys franchisees should budget separately for any wages or salaries they intend to pay themselves or their employees during the training period. This is a crucial consideration for managing cash flow during the initial phase of the business.
It is typical in the franchise industry for franchisors to cover the direct costs of training, such as travel and accommodation, but not to subsidize the franchisee's or their employees' wages. Franchisees should clarify with Ben Jerrys what specific training-related expenses are covered and what costs they will be responsible for.