Is Ben Jerrys required to conduct inspections of the Scoop Shop operation?

According to Ben Jerrys's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Ben & Jerry's is not required to conduct inspections of the Scoop Shop operation. However, Ben & Jerry's retains the right to conduct inspections of the Scoop Shop as it deems advisable. These inspections are not a substitute for the franchisee's responsibility to oversee the daily operations of the Scoop Shop and the performance of their employees.

If Ben & Jerry's conducts an inspection and finds deficiencies, the franchisee is responsible for correcting them. Should a re-inspection be necessary to ensure the deficiencies have been corrected, the franchisee must reimburse Ben & Jerry's for the travel expenses and room and board of its representatives. If the franchisee fails to correct the deficiencies within a reasonable time, Ben & Jerry's has the right, but not the obligation, to correct the deficiencies themselves and charge the franchisee for the associated expenses.

This arrangement allows Ben & Jerry's to monitor the standards and operations of its franchises, while placing the primary responsibility for day-to-day management and compliance on the franchisee. The potential for re-inspection costs and direct charges for corrections incentivize franchisees to maintain standards and address any issues promptly.