Is Better Blend required to provide in-person support if requested by the franchisee?
Better_Blend Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
If Franchisee requests, BBF shall provide advice to Franchisee (by telephone or electronic communication) regarding improving and developing Franchisee's business, and resolving operating problems Franchisee encounters, to the extent BBF deems reasonable. If BBF provides in-person support in response to Franchisee's request, BBF may charge its then-current fee plus any out-of-pocket expenses (such as travel, lodging, and meals for employees providing onsite support).
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 43)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Better Blend's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Better Blend will provide advice to franchisees by telephone or electronic communication regarding their business and any operating problems they may encounter, to the extent that Better Blend deems reasonable. However, if a Better Blend franchisee requests in-person support, Better Blend has the option to provide it. If Better Blend does provide in-person support, they may charge a fee, as well as any out-of-pocket expenses like travel, lodging, and meals for the employees providing the support.
This means that while Better Blend is obligated to provide some level of support and advice to its franchisees, it is not required to provide in-person support. This is a common practice in franchising, as franchisors need to balance the support they provide to franchisees with the costs of providing that support. Franchisees should be aware that if they require in-person support from Better Blend, they may be responsible for covering the costs associated with that support.
Prospective franchisees should consider this policy when evaluating the Better Blend franchise opportunity. If they anticipate needing significant in-person support, they should factor in the potential costs of that support when making their decision. It would be prudent to discuss with Better Blend what their typical fees and expenses are for providing on-site support to better understand the potential financial implications.