Under what conditions might Benihana excuse a franchisee from attending initial training?
Benihana Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- 5.1 Franchisee must, unless specifically excused by BNC based on prior experience, attend and complete to BNC's satisfaction all Initial Training and In-Restaurant Training before opening of the Restaurant.
Franchisee agrees that a General Manager, Chief Chef, and Chief Sushi Chef, and all other persons required by BNC, will attend, participate in, and successfully complete Initial Training and In-Restaurant Training at locations designated by BNC, which Franchisee acknowledges may include locations within the United States of America.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 74–576)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Benihana's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must attend and complete initial and in-restaurant training before opening their restaurant. However, Benihana may excuse a franchisee from this training requirement if the franchisee has prior experience. This decision to excuse a franchisee from training is made at Benihana's discretion.
This means that if a prospective Benihana franchisee has extensive experience in restaurant management or a related field, they may request to be excused from the standard initial training program. Benihana will evaluate the franchisee's background and determine whether their prior experience is sufficient to waive the training requirement.
It is important to note that even if a franchisee is excused from initial training, their General Manager, Chief Chef, and Chief Sushi Chef, along with any other personnel Benihana requires, must still attend and successfully complete the training programs. This ensures that key personnel are fully versed in the Benihana system and standards, regardless of the franchisee's personal experience.