What constitutes 'approval' from the Bft franchisor for the Studio's Soft Opening?
Bft Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- D. Subject to Applicable Laws (defined below), Franchisee must execute a written premises lease agreement accepted by Franchisor for the Authorized Location no later than six (6) months after the execution of this Agreement (the "Lease Execution Deadline"), and Franchisee must, with Franchisor's written approval, open the Studio's doors to the general public for participation in regular classes in the physical premises of the Studio (the "Soft Opening") no later than fifteen (15) months after the execution of this Agreement (the "Opening Deadline"); and
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 79–265)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bft's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee must obtain Bft's written approval to open the studio's doors to the general public for participation in regular classes in the physical premises of the studio, which is referred to as the "Soft Opening". This soft opening must occur no later than fifteen months after the execution of the Franchise Agreement.
Prior to the soft opening, all persons required to complete the Owner/Operator Module, the Designated Manager Training Program, and the Pre-Opening Instructor Training must do so before engaging in any activities related to the operation of the studio. Any individual that wishes to provide fitness instruction or any of the other Approved Services at the Studio must first complete the Pre-Opening Instructor Training.
If the franchisee fails to comply with their obligations under the Franchise Agreement, Bft reserves the right to charge the franchisee its then-current non-compliance fee in each instance. Bft may also terminate the Franchise Agreement upon written notice to the franchisee if the franchisee permits approved services to be provided by any individual that does not first complete the Pre-Opening Instructor Training.