Will Bft arbitrarily withhold its acceptance of the lease for the Studio?
Bft Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee must submit the lease for the Studio to Franchisor for its written acceptance before Franchisee executes the lease for the Authorized Location.
Franchisor will not withhold its acceptance of the lease arbitrarily; however, any lease must be subject to the applicable Lease Addendum or incorporate similar terms.
Franchisor's acceptance of the lease for the Studio will be for Franchisor's own purposes, and Franchisor's makes no representation or warranty as to the quality or suitability of the lease or its terms for Franchisee's purposes.
Franchisee acknowledges that it has been advised to have any lease reviewed by Franchisee's own legal counsel.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 79–265)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bft's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Bft will not arbitrarily withhold its acceptance of the lease for the studio. However, any lease must be subject to the applicable Lease Addendum or incorporate similar terms. Bft's acceptance of the lease is for its own purposes, and it makes no representation or warranty as to the quality or suitability of the lease for the franchisee's purposes.
This means that while Bft needs to approve the lease, they can't just reject it without a valid reason. The lease needs to include specific terms found in Bft's standard Lease Addendum. This protects Bft's interests and ensures the location is suitable for their brand.
However, franchisees should not rely solely on Bft's approval as a guarantee that the lease is good for them. Bft is looking out for its own interests, not necessarily the financial well-being of the franchisee. The FDD advises franchisees to have the lease reviewed by their own legal counsel. This is a standard practice in franchising, as lease agreements can be complex and have long-term financial implications for the franchisee.