How does Ben Jerrys provide access to the Operating Manual to the OPERATOR?
Ben_Jerrys Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
JERRY'S shall provide OPERATOR with access to the Manual, via electronic access (through the B&J Extranet), for the term of this Agreement upon completion by OPERATOR and OPERATOR's manager of Scoop U Training. The Manual may be set forth in several volumes, including such amendments thereto, as BEN & JERRY'S may electronically publish from time to time. Additionally, OPERATOR acknowledges and agrees that BEN & JERRY'S may provide a portion or all (including updates and amendments) of the Manual, and other instructional information and materials in, or via, electronic media, including through the use of computer disks, the Internet or the B&J Extranet.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 133–134)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Ben Jerrys's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Ben Jerrys provides the OPERATOR with access to the operating manual electronically through the B&J Extranet. This access is granted for the term of the agreement once the OPERATOR and their manager complete Scoop U Training. The manual may consist of multiple volumes and may be amended electronically by Ben & Jerrys from time to time.
Ben & Jerrys may also provide instructional information and materials via electronic media, including computer disks, the Internet, or the B&J Extranet. The OPERATOR is required to treat the manual and its contents as confidential and proprietary, preventing unauthorized downloading, copying, or reproduction. The manual remains the sole property of Ben & Jerrys and must be accessed only from a secure location on the premises and only electronically.
The OPERATOR must ensure they are using the most current version of the manual, with the master version maintained by Ben & Jerrys's home office serving as the controlling reference in case of disputes. Furthermore, the OPERATOR is obligated to comply with any revisions or changes made to the manual by Ben & Jerrys. The OPERATOR is also required to purchase and maintain specific computer and communication hardware, software, and internet connectivity as specified in the manual to ensure efficient data transmission with Ben & Jerrys.