How many trainees can attend the initial 'Scoop U Training' provided by Ben Jerrys at no charge?
Ben_Jerrys Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 3.2 BEN & JERRY'S shall provide its initial training for operators and managers ("Scoop U Training"), as described in Section 6 of this Agreement, for up to three (3) trainees, at no charge to OPERATOR during a period of six (6) months commencing on the Effective Date.
After such time period, BEN & JERRY'S may require that OPERATOR pay BEN & JERRY'S then-current training fees for any such training provided by BEN & JERRY'S.
Nothing in this Section 3.2 shall limit or otherwise affect the obligations of OPERATOR to satisfy the training requirements set forth in Section 6 below.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 133–134)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Ben Jerrys's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Ben & Jerry's provides initial training, known as "Scoop U Training", for up to three trainees without charging a fee to the operator. This benefit is available for a period of six months starting from the effective date of the franchise agreement.
This means that a new Ben Jerrys franchisee can send themselves and up to two managers or other employees to the initial training program without incurring a direct training fee. This can significantly reduce the initial investment costs for a new franchise, as training fees can often be a substantial expense.
However, it's important to note that this free training is only available for the first six months. After this period, Ben Jerrys may charge its then-current training fees for any additional training provided. The franchisee is also responsible for all other expenses associated with the training, including transportation, lodging, meals, and wages for the trainees. Therefore, while the initial training fee is waived for up to three people, franchisees should still budget for these additional costs.