What is the non-attendance fee for Benjamin Franklin Plumbing's annual convention after the first missed convention?
Benjamin_Franklin_Plumbing Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
s, as we determine, and the training may be performed by us, our affiliates, or third parties.
- 5.4. Training Fees. We may charge a training fee: (a) for additional trainees that you request in excess of the maximum number we designate for a training program; (b) if we require remedial training as a result of your failure to comply with our Brand Standards; (c) for re-training persons who are repeating a training program, or their substitutes; and (d) for training programs that we make optional for franchisees.
- 5.5. Travel Expenses. For all training, including initial training, you are responsible for all travel expenses, living expenses, wages, and other expenses incurred by your trainees. If we conduct training at any location other than our headquarters, you may be required to pay the reasonable travel, meal, and lodging expenses of our trainer(s).
- 5.6. [Reserved.]
- 5.7. Employee Training. Except for the training in Sections 5.1 and 5.2, you are responsible for all employee training for the Franchised Business.
- 5.8. Brand Conferences and Conventions; Non-Attendance Fee. The Key Person, Owners of Franchisee, and/or employees of Franchisee, as designated by us (collectively, "Designated Franchisee Representatives"), are required to attend an annual convention and regional conferences of franchise owners, if called by us. Franchisee is responsible for the costs of travel and acco
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 88–312)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to have designated representatives attend an annual convention and regional conferences. Franchisees are responsible for covering the travel and accommodation costs for their attendees. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing reserves the right to charge a fee for each conference.
If none of the designated representatives attend the annual convention, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing may charge a non-attendance fee. The fee is $500 for the first missed convention. For any subsequent consecutive missed conventions, the non-attendance fee increases to $2,000 per convention.
Failure to attend the annual convention for three consecutive years can result in a default of the Franchise Agreement, potentially leading to termination, unless the franchisee has an approved reason for not attending or obtains prior approval to send a qualified substitute. A qualified substitute is defined as an owner active in the franchised business or another employee who actively works full time in the operation of the franchised business. This policy underscores the importance Benjamin Franklin Plumbing places on franchisee participation in these events for training, networking, and maintaining brand standards.