For the Bft Development Schedule, what constitutes a 'Soft Opening'?
Bft Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
C. Development Schedule. The Development Schedule is set forth on Exhibit A hereto. Each period described in the Development Schedule is a "Development Period." Developer (or its approved affiliate) must conduct its Soft Opening and operate Studios in the Development Area, each pursuant to a written franchise agreement and related agreements signed by Franchisor and a franchisee (each a "Franchise Agreement"), as necessary to satisfy the requirements of each Development Period, but Developer shall not be required to open, in total, more than the cumulative number of Studios shown for the last Development Period. To determine whether a Studio has conducted its Soft Opening for purposes of the Development Schedule, "Soft Opening" means that the respective Studio's doors are open to the general public for participating in regular classes in the physical premises of the Studio.
Source: Item 17 — RENEWAL, TERMINATION, TRANSFER AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION (FDD pages 57–66)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bft's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a 'Soft Opening' within the context of the Development Schedule signifies that a Bft studio has opened its doors to the general public. Specifically, this means the studio is operational and offering regular classes within its physical premises. This milestone is crucial for developers as it marks progress in fulfilling their development obligations within specified timeframes.
For a Bft developer, achieving a 'Soft Opening' is a key requirement for meeting the milestones outlined in the Development Schedule. The Development Schedule dictates the timeframe a developer has to open a specific number of franchises. Failing to meet these deadlines can have consequences, although Bft does offer a one-time extension under certain conditions.
To qualify for a one-time extension of up to 90 days, the developer must have already secured a lease for the studio location approved by Bft and must notify Bft of the need for an extension at least 30 days before the development deadline. However, it's important to note that this extension only applies to the specific Development Period for which it is granted and does not alter subsequent development obligations or deadlines.