Are there any exceptions to Ben Jerrys' policy of not offering financing?
Ben_Jerrys Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We do not offer direct or indirect financing. We will not guarantee your note, lease, or obligation. We will not offer, issue or otherwise make available to you any form of trade credit for the Ben & Jerry's Products, or any other products or services, purchased from us.
Incentive Program
Manager-to-Franchisee Pathways Program
For Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shop managers that are pursuing franchise ownership, we offer a waiver of initial franchise fees (such waiver is intended for managers will own 100% of the franchise), up to a 2-year period of royalty waivers (a 2-year royalty waiver shall be applicable to managers that acquire at least 50% equity/ownership of a franchise in the aggregate; a 1-year royalty waiver shall be applicable to managers that acquire between 20-50% equity/ownership of a franchise in the aggregate ) and reimbursement for approved learning and development expenses (e.g., attending Ben & Jerry's Franchise Annual Meeting). Qualification for this program is evaluated on a case-by-case basis and managers must meet certain criteria to be considered for the program. As of the issuance date of this disclosure document, such criteria include (i) a minimum equity/ownership interest of 20% in the franchise; (ii) a minimum of 1-year experience as a Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shop manager; (iii) demonstrated System participation (e.g. attendance at Franchise Annual Meeting, participation in Systemwide calls, etc.); and (iv) a demonstrated commitment to and understanding of Ben & Jerry's three-part mission (see Item 1, above). This program may be modified without notice at any time and we may establish and/or eliminate any benefits as we deem in the best interests of the System.
Source: Item 10 — FINANCING (FDD page 43)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Ben Jerrys's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Ben Jerrys does not offer direct or indirect financing to franchisees. Ben Jerrys will not guarantee any franchisee's note, lease, or obligation. Additionally, Ben Jerrys will not offer any trade credit for Ben & Jerry's products or services purchased from them.
However, Ben Jerrys does offer an Incentive Program called the Manager-to-Franchisee Pathways Program. This program is designed for Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shop managers pursuing franchise ownership. As part of this program, Ben Jerrys may offer a waiver of initial franchise fees for managers who will own 100% of the franchise. Ben Jerrys may also offer up to a 2-year period of royalty waivers. A 2-year royalty waiver is applicable to managers that acquire at least 50% equity/ownership of a franchise in the aggregate, while a 1-year royalty waiver is applicable to managers that acquire between 20-50% equity/ownership of a franchise in the aggregate. Ben Jerrys may also offer reimbursement for approved learning and development expenses, such as attending the Ben & Jerry's Franchise Annual Meeting.
To qualify for the Manager-to-Franchisee Pathways Program, managers must meet certain criteria evaluated on a case-by-case basis. These criteria include a minimum equity/ownership interest of 20% in the franchise, a minimum of 1-year experience as a Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shop manager, demonstrated System participation (e.g., attendance at Franchise Annual Meeting, participation in Systemwide calls, etc.), and a demonstrated commitment to and understanding of Ben & Jerry's three-part mission. It is important to note that Ben Jerrys may modify or eliminate this program and its benefits at any time without notice, as they deem necessary for the best interests of the System. Therefore, prospective franchisees should confirm the current terms and conditions of the program with Ben Jerrys.