Can a Ben Jerrys franchisee use a local design firm?
Ben_Jerrys Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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- As described in Item 11, you must pay a design firm to prepare layout and dimensions and preliminary drawings, and to prepare final plans for construction based upon the standardized design and specifications that we provide. You may use a local design firm so long as the local design firm meets our qualifications. The cost of design, plans, and permits will vary depending on store type, building conditions, local, state, and federal requirements and the scope of work. Costs listed are average based on completing design work for a standard vanilla shell; sites not brought to vanilla shell basic standards will incur additional expenses. Local, municipal, county and state regulation may require that you obtain licenses and permits to operate the Shop. See Item 11 under the heading "Construction and Layout of Shop" for additional information.
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 28–37)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Ben Jerrys's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees can use a local design firm for shop layout and construction plans, provided the firm meets Ben Jerrys's qualifications. Item 7 outlines the estimated initial investment, including costs for plans, development, and permits, which range from $3,500 to $12,000. These fees are paid to the design firm and relevant licensing authorities as incurred.
Ben Jerrys requires franchisees to use a design firm to prepare the layout, dimensions, and preliminary drawings, as well as the final construction plans. These plans must adhere to Ben Jerrys's standardized design and specifications. While franchisees have the option to use a local design firm, that firm must meet the standards set by Ben Jerrys.
The cost for design, plans, and permits can vary based on the shop type, building conditions, and local requirements. The listed costs are averages for a standard vanilla shell site, and additional expenses may arise if the site does not meet these basic standards. Franchisees should also be aware of local regulations that may require specific licenses and permits to operate the shop.