What information might Better Blend request when a franchisee proposes an alternate vendor?
Better_Blend Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- 8.2 Alternate Vendor Approval. If BBF requires Franchisee to purchase a particular Input only from an Approved Vendor or Required Vendor, and Franchisee desires to purchase the Input from another vendor, then Franchisee must submit a written request for approval and any information, specifications and/or samples requested by BBF. BBF may approve or disapprove the alternative vendor in its sole discretion. BBF may condition its approval on such criteria as BBF deems appropriate, which may include evaluations of the vendor's capacity, quality, financial stability, reputation, and reliability; inspections; product testing, and performance reviews. BBF
shall provide Franchisee with written notification of the approval or disapproval of any proposed new vendor within 30 days after receipt of Franchisee's request.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 43)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Better Blend's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee wants to purchase an input from a vendor that is not an approved or required vendor, Better Blend requires the franchisee to submit a written request for approval. Along with the request, Better Blend may ask for any information, specifications, and/or samples it deems necessary to evaluate the proposed alternate vendor.
Better Blend has the sole discretion to approve or disapprove the alternative vendor. Better Blend may also set specific criteria for approval, which could include assessing the vendor's capacity, quality control measures, financial stability, reputation, and overall reliability. Better Blend might also conduct inspections, product testing, and performance reviews of the vendor.
Better Blend will provide the franchisee with written notification of the approval or disapproval of the proposed new vendor within 30 days of receiving the franchisee's request. This process allows Better Blend to maintain consistent standards and quality across all franchise locations while also considering a franchisee's suggestions for alternative suppliers.
This requirement ensures that Better Blend maintains control over its supply chain and product quality, which is typical in franchising. Franchisees should be prepared to thoroughly research and vet any potential alternative vendors before submitting them for approval, as well as factor in the 30-day review period when managing their inventory and supply needs.