For Bens Soft Pretzels, are my employees considered employees of the franchisor?
Bens_Soft_Pretzels Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You acknowledge that you are an independent business and solely responsible for control and management of your Store, including, but not limited to, the hiring and discharging of your employees and setting and paying wages and benefits of your employees. You acknowledge that we have no power, responsibility or liability in respect to the hiring, discharging, setting and paying of wages or related matters.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 46–47)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Bens Soft Pretzels Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are considered independent businesses, and their employees are not employees of the franchisor. As a Bens Soft Pretzels franchisee, you have sole responsibility for the control and management of your store. This includes all employment-related decisions.
You are responsible for hiring and firing employees, setting their wages, and providing benefits. Bens Soft Pretzels Franchising Corporation has no power, responsibility, or liability regarding these employment matters. This arrangement is typical in franchising, where franchisees operate as independent entities.
This independence also means you must ensure your store complies with all applicable laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances. You are required to secure and maintain all necessary licenses, permits, and certificates related to your Bens Soft Pretzels store. Additionally, you must inform Bens Soft Pretzels in writing of any claims, litigation, or proceedings that could affect your store's operation or financial condition, including health code or license violations.