Under what circumstances must a Big Blue Swim School franchisee upgrade their Computer System?
Big_Blue_Swim_School Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The Computer System generates and maintains revenue and other financial information. You must upgrade the Computer System, and/or obtain service and support, as we require or when necessary because of technological developments, including complying with PCI Data Security Standards. There are no contractual limitations on the frequency and cost of this obligation. We need not reimburse your costs.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 37–51)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Big Blue Swim School's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee must upgrade the Computer System or obtain service and support when required by Big Blue Swim School or when necessary due to technological developments. This includes complying with PCI Data Security Standards.
This requirement means that franchisees must stay current with technology to maintain system compatibility and security. The FDD places the onus on the franchisee to bear the costs of these upgrades, and Big Blue Swim School is not obligated to reimburse these expenses. There are no contractual limitations on the frequency and cost of this obligation.
Given the rapid pace of technological advancement and the increasing importance of data security, these upgrades could represent a significant and recurring expense for Big Blue Swim School franchisees. It is important to note that the initial investment for the computer and point-of-sale systems is estimated to range from $8,000 to $12,000, with ongoing maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and updates estimated at $250 per year, not including technology refreshes required during the franchise term. Franchisees should factor in potential unplanned technology expenses when assessing the overall cost of the franchise.