What action is a Bens Soft Pretzels franchisee prohibited from taking regarding suppliers who have not been approved?

According to Bens Soft Pretzels's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee is prohibited from contracting with suppliers who have not been approved by Bens Soft Pretzels. If a franchisee wishes to use a supplier not already on the approved list, they must submit a written request for approval. This request must include any background documents or evidence required by Bens Soft Pretzels.

Bens Soft Pretzels has the right to require the franchisee to obtain permission from the supplier for Bens Soft Pretzels' representatives to inspect the supplier's facilities. The franchisee may also be required to deliver samples from the supplier for evaluation and testing, either to Bens Soft Pretzels or to an independent testing facility designated by them. To have an alternate supplier approved, the franchisee must first notify Bens Soft Pretzels in writing and submit sufficient specifications, samples, and information, along with the current fee of $500 per day for each person Bens Soft Pretzels provides for this determination, plus reasonable expenses.

Bens Soft Pretzels will notify the franchisee of their approval or disapproval within 30 days of receiving all requested information. Bens Soft Pretzels may revoke their approval of a supplier at any time for any reason. Upon receiving notification of a revocation of approval, the franchisee must immediately stop using or selling any disapproved products and cease purchasing from the disapproved supplier. This ensures that all Bens Soft Pretzels locations maintain uniform quality and standards.