From whom must the POS System hardware and software be purchased for a Ben Jerrys franchise?

According to Ben Jerrys's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, all hardware and software of the POS System must be purchased new from an approved Ben & Jerry's vendor, unless otherwise approved in writing by the Ben & Jerry's Management team. This requirement ensures that all franchisees use a standardized and compatible system for managing transactions and sales data.

For a prospective franchisee, this means they cannot source their own POS system hardware and software independently. They must purchase it from a vendor that Ben Jerrys has already vetted and approved. This ensures compatibility with Ben Jerrys's systems and reporting requirements. While this limits the franchisee's choice, it also reduces the risk of selecting a system that doesn't meet Ben Jerrys's standards or integrate properly.

The FDD also mentions that Ben Jerrys reserves the right to change the POS system specifications in the future to adapt to technological advancements or operational needs. This means that franchisees may be required to upgrade their systems periodically, potentially incurring additional costs. However, Ben Jerrys states they will endeavor to keep these changes infrequent and reasonable in price. Franchisees are also responsible for costs such as the POS SaaS license fee, which is currently $100 per month per location.

In addition to the POS system, franchisees are required to purchase hardware to support online ordering, which can cost approximately $1,000-$1,500. They are also responsible for installing and maintaining the necessary cabling, Internet connectivity, wireless internet, telephone line, and dedicated electrical circuits. The costs of the equipment, software, staging, and credit card equipment, and Dashboard for a one-terminal POS System range between $1,800-$2,300 plus tax. These costs include POS equipment, software and hardware, one year of coverage for the POS SaaS license fee, access to Square Priority Support Services, Dashboard access, and Employee Management.