What specific purposes are permitted for the use of the Authorized Warehouse for a Ben Jerrys franchise?
Ben_Jerrys Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The Authorized Warehouse shall be used specifically only for the following purposes: warehouse for Products and other products, storage of catering supplies, general storage space, office space, parking for carts and truck(s), and such other uses as BEN & JERRY'S may specify in the Manual, or otherwise approve in writing.
The Authorized Warehouse shall not be used for the preparation of any Products, shall not make use of signage on the exterior of the premises (except for such identifying information necessary for deliveries), provide Off-Premises Activities [and/or Mobile Vending] at or within the Authorized Warehouse or otherwise serve or sell Products or products directly to any customer at or within the Authorized Warehouse. [OPERATOR/The Catering Entity] shall also refrain from using or permitting the use of the Authorized Warehouse for any unauthorized or unlawful purpose; and shall refrain from using or permitting the use of the Authorized Warehouse for any purpose or activity other than those specifically listed in this Section 7.2 at any time without first obtaining the written consent of BEN & JERRY'S.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 134–358)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Ben Jerrys's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Authorized Warehouse for a Ben Jerrys franchise has specific permitted uses. The warehouse is primarily intended for supporting off-premises activities and/or mobile vending services.
Specifically, the Authorized Warehouse can be used for the following purposes: warehousing products and other related items, storing catering supplies, providing general storage space, serving as office space, and providing parking for carts and trucks. Additionally, Ben Jerrys may specify other uses in the Manual or approve them in writing.
However, the document explicitly states what the Authorized Warehouse cannot be used for. It is not to be used for the preparation of any products, displaying exterior signage (except for necessary delivery information), conducting off-premises activities or mobile vending directly at the warehouse, or selling products directly to customers at the warehouse. Furthermore, franchisees must refrain from using the Authorized Warehouse for any unauthorized or unlawful purpose, or any purpose not specifically listed without prior written consent from Ben Jerrys.