How does the pre-opening assistance offered by Bft in Item 11 relate to the franchisee's obligations regarding site selection, as mentioned in Item 9?

According to Bft's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Item 11 and Item 9 outline the relationship between Bft's pre-opening assistance and the franchisee's site selection obligations. Item 9 specifies that franchisees are obligated to handle site selection and acquisition/lease according to Sections 1.2, 2.2.C, 7.1 and 7.2, 15.1.A(10)-(11), and Exhibit 4 of the Franchise Agreement. This means the franchisee bears the responsibility for finding and securing a location that meets Bft's criteria. Item 23, under Franchisor Services, details how Bft assists franchisees in this process. Bft consults and advises on the layout, design, and procurement of equipment, furniture, and initial inventories.

Specifically, after the franchisee secures a lease, Bft provides the specifications and standards for the building, equipment, furnishings, layout, design, and signs. While the franchisee's architect can propose changes to meet legal requirements or adapt to the location's unique characteristics, these changes require Bft's prior written consent. This ensures that while franchisees are responsible for site selection, Bft maintains control over the studio's design and branding to ensure consistency across all locations.

In practice, this means a prospective Bft franchisee needs to actively search for and secure a suitable location, understanding that Bft has final approval on any modifications to the studio's design. This division of responsibilities balances the franchisee's local market knowledge with Bft's brand standards and operational requirements. Franchisees should carefully review Exhibit 4 of the Franchise Agreement, as referenced in Item 9, to fully understand the site selection criteria and approval process.