Does the Ben Jerrys manual include a section on 'Understanding HACCP'?
Ben_Jerrys Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Such Off-Premises Activities [and/or Mobile Vending] must be conducted in accordance with the terms and conditions stated in this Agreement, in BEN & JERRY'S Confidential Operating Manual (the "Manual"), which is more fully described in Section 9 hereof, or otherwise by BEN & JERRY'S in writing.
OPERATOR, with regard to the Scoop Shop, the Authorized Warehouse [, and the Catering Entity] shall each take such steps as are necessary to ensure that its employees preserve good customer relations; render competent, prompt, courteous, and knowledgeable service; maintain and utilize a telephone or answering service that is responsive to all inquiries related to the business, including requests for Off-Premises Activities [and/or Mobile Vending], cakes and operating hours; and meet such minimum standards as BEN & JERRY'S may establish from time to time in the Manual or otherwise in writing.
- 13.6 [OPERATOR's/The Catering Entity's] obligation to obtain and maintain the policy or policies in the amounts specified in the Manual or otherwise in writing shall not be limited in any way by reason of any insurance which may be maintained by BEN & JERRY'S, nor shall [OPERATOR's/the Catering Entity's] performance of that obligation relieve it of liability under the indemnity provisions set forth in Section 20.3 of this Agreement.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 134–358)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
Based on the 2025 Ben Jerrys Franchise Disclosure Document, while the term 'HACCP' (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) is not explicitly mentioned, the manual is referenced in several contexts related to operations, standards, and requirements. Specifically, the Ben Jerrys Confidential Operating Manual (the "Manual") outlines the terms and conditions for conducting Off-Premises Activities and Mobile Vending.
The manual also specifies the types and minimum amounts of insurance coverage a franchisee must maintain. Furthermore, Ben Jerrys may establish minimum standards in the manual or in writing regarding customer relations and service.
Given these references, it is plausible that food safety practices, potentially including elements of HACCP, could be integrated into the operational guidelines detailed within the manual. However, the excerpts do not confirm whether a specific section on 'Understanding HACCP' exists. A prospective franchisee should directly inquire with Ben Jerrys about the inclusion of HACCP or other food safety protocols in their training and operating procedures to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.