What responsibility does Bens Soft Pretzels have for the employees of its franchisees?
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. As such, Bens Soft Pretzels has no responsibility or liability when it comes to the employees of its franchisees.
The franchisee is solely responsible for the control and management of their store. This includes all aspects of employment, such as hiring and firing, as well as setting and paying wages and benefits. Bens Soft Pretzels explicitly states that they have no power or responsibility in these areas.
This arrangement is typical in franchising, where franchisees operate as independent entities. Prospective franchisees should understand that they will be fully responsible for all employer-related obligations, ensuring compliance with labor laws and managing employee relations effectively.