What costs are Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchisees responsible for covering when attending the Training Program?
Benjamin_Franklin_Plumbing Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Before the Franchised Business opens, the Key Person (see Item 15) and any Owners that we designate must attend and successfully complete an initial training program at least three weeks prior to opening the Franchised Business. The Training Program consists of two phases: phase one, which is conducted online (currently called "Initial Training"), and phase two, which is a proprietary franchise performance and development training program conducted in a classroom setting (currently called Branded Operations Orientation Training or "BOOT") (collectively, Initial Training and BOOT are referred to in this disclosure document as the "Training Program"). The Training Program is provided at no cost to you and up to one additional owner or Key Person, but you will have to pay for travel, accommodations, meals and salaries for yourself and any senior management level employees who attend. Franchisees generally complete training 3 to 9 weeks prior to opening the Franchised Business.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 46–57)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the initial training program is provided at no cost for the Key Person and up to one additional owner or Key Person. However, franchisees are responsible for covering certain expenses related to attending the training program. These expenses include travel, accommodations, meals, and salaries for themselves and any senior management level employees who attend the training.
This means that while Benjamin Franklin Plumbing does not charge tuition for the initial training, franchisees must budget for transportation to and from the training location, lodging during the training period, food, and the wages of any employees attending the training. The FDD specifies that the training program consists of two phases: an online phase called "Initial Training" and a classroom-based phase called "Branded Operations Orientation Training or 'BOOT'."
Prospective Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchisees should carefully consider these costs when evaluating the overall investment required to start the franchise. These costs can vary significantly depending on the location of the training, the duration of the stay, and the number of employees attending. It is important to factor in these expenses to accurately assess the financial feasibility of the franchise opportunity.