What must a Bens Soft Pretzels franchisee do promptly after obtaining possession of the site?
Bens_Soft_Pretzels Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Without limiting the generality of the prior paragraph, you must promptly after obtaining possession of the site for the Store: (i) contact and retain an architect that meets our approval and have prepared and submitted for our approval a site survey and basic architectural plans and specifications consistent with our general atmosphere, image, color scheme and décor requirements as set forth from time to time in the Manuals for a BEN'S SOFT PRETZELS store (including requirements for dimensions, exterior design, materials, interior design and layout, equipment, fixtures, furniture and signage); (ii) purchase or lease and then, in the construction of the Store, use only the approved building materials, equipment, fixtures, audio visual equipment, furniture and signage; (iii) complete the construction and/or remodeling, equipment, fixtures, furniture and sign installation and decorating of the Store in full and strict compliance with plans and specifications we approve and all applicable ordinances, building codes and permit requirements without any unauthorized alterations; (iv) obtain all customary contractors' sworn statements and partial and final waivers, obtain all necessary permits, licenses and architectural seals and comply with applicable legal requirements relating to the building, signs, equipment and premises, including, but not limited to, the Americans With Disabilities Act; and (v) obtain and maintain all required zoning changes, building, utility, health, sanitation, and sign permits and licenses and any other required permits and licenses. It is your responsibility to comply with the foregoing conditions.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 46–47)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Bens Soft Pretzels Franchise Disclosure Document, upon obtaining possession of the store site, a franchisee must take several immediate actions. The franchisee is required to contact and retain an architect approved by Bens Soft Pretzels to prepare and submit a site survey along with basic architectural plans. These plans must align with the brand's standards for atmosphere, image, color scheme, and décor, as detailed in the Bens Soft Pretzels manuals. This includes specific requirements for dimensions, exterior and interior design, materials, layout, equipment, fixtures, furniture, and signage.
Furthermore, the franchisee must ensure that only approved building materials, equipment, fixtures, audio-visual equipment, furniture, and signage are used in the construction of the store. The construction and remodeling must strictly adhere to the approved plans and specifications, as well as all applicable ordinances, building codes, and permit requirements, without any unauthorized alterations. This ensures that the store meets all necessary legal and brand standards.
Additionally, the franchisee is responsible for obtaining all customary contractors' sworn statements and waivers, as well as all necessary permits, licenses, and architectural seals. Compliance with all applicable legal requirements, including the Americans With Disabilities Act, is mandatory. The franchisee must also secure and maintain all required zoning changes, building, utility, health, sanitation, and sign permits and licenses, along with any other necessary permits and licenses. These steps are crucial for the legal and operational compliance of the Bens Soft Pretzels store.