Can Benjamin Franklin Plumbing require a franchisee to upgrade their technology systems?
Benjamin_Franklin_Plumbing Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 6.7. Technology Requirements.
We have the right to specify the point-of-sale (POS) system, customer relationship management (CRM) system, back-office system, software applications, audio/visual equipment, security systems, electronic payment devices, and other hardware, software, and network connectivity for the Franchised Business.
You agree to sign any standard license agreement or user agreement that may be required to use a system that we specify.
You are required to use the required systems for service calls, managing inventory, reporting Gross Revenue and other information, training personnel, and other functions as we specify from time to time.
You are required to ensure that your employees are adequately trained to use the systems and that they follow applicable policies.
You are required to maintain your technology systems in good working order at all times and promptly install upgrades, additions, modifications, substitutions and/or replacements of hardware, software, connectivity, power, and other system components as necessary.
You agree to bear all costs of acquisition, installation, use, maintenance and upgrade of your systems.
6.8. Franchisee Portal.
19.1.11 The computer system and vehicle(s) used in operation of the Franchised Business must be upgraded as necessary to meet our then-current Brand Standards.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 88–312)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are generally required to maintain and upgrade their technology systems. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing has the right to specify various technology systems that the franchisee must use, including point-of-sale (POS) systems, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, back-office systems, software applications, audio/visual equipment, security systems, electronic payment devices, and other hardware, software, and network connectivity. The franchisee must also sign any standard license agreement or user agreement required to use these systems.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing requires franchisees to use these systems for service calls, managing inventory, reporting Gross Revenue and other information, training personnel, and other functions. Franchisees must ensure their employees are adequately trained to use the systems and follow all applicable policies.
Furthermore, franchisees are responsible for maintaining their technology systems in good working order at all times and must promptly install any upgrades, additions, modifications, substitutions, or replacements of hardware, software, connectivity, power, and other system components as necessary. The franchisee is responsible for bearing all costs associated with the acquisition, installation, use, maintenance, and upgrades of these systems. Also, as part of the renewal requirements, the computer system used in the operation of the franchised business must be upgraded as necessary to meet Benjamin Franklin Plumbing's then-current Brand Standards.