Who oversees the training program for a Benihana franchise?

According to Benihana's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Director of Culinary Training/Kitchen Training/R&D will oversee the training program. The FDD mentions that Item 2 contains information regarding the director's experience. Benihana may also utilize other employees' experience to conduct restaurant operations training. The training program includes instructional materials such as the Manual, beverage, food, sushi, and management manuals.

Benihana requires franchisees to complete a pre-opening training program to their satisfaction. This program consists of two components: Initial Training and In-Restaurant training. The Initial Training requires trainees to work in a Benihana restaurant for 8 to 12 weeks, or until they are adequately trained. If the franchisee and their trainees do not complete the pre-opening training program to Benihana's satisfaction, the restaurant opening will be postponed until the training is completed.

Benihana allows franchisees to bring up to five chefs, one restaurant manager, and, if required or requested and space is available, one of their principals to the Initial Training at no additional fee. Additional employees may attend with prior written approval, but the franchisee must pay Benihana's current training fee for each additional employee. Franchisees must complete the Initial Training before opening their Benihana restaurant.