Does Bigfoot Forestry's approval need to be in writing to be binding?
Bigfoot_Forestry Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
he obligation, to offer such services. As a condition to offering optional goods or services you may be required to complete additional training, purchase additional equipment and tools and secure additional licenses or permits. You may not offer any other goods or services without our prior written permission. You may not sell any goods or services we have disapproved. You may not use your Business, or permit your Business to be used, for any purpose other than offering the goods and services we authorize. We may change authorized goods and services at any time and you must comply with our instructions regarding same.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 42–162)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bigfoot Forestry's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, certain approvals from Bigfoot Forestry must be in writing to be binding. Specifically, franchisees need prior written permission from Bigfoot Forestry to offer goods or services that are not already authorized. Additionally, franchisees may not store equipment or tools at any commercial storage facility without prior written approval from Bigfoot Forestry.
Furthermore, the FDD includes a "Storage Facility Approval Notice" as Attachment B to the franchise agreement. This notice confirms Bigfoot Forestry's approval of the franchisee's proposed commercial storage facility. The notice states that the designation of the approved storage facility is binding on the franchisee as of the effective date listed in the notice, regardless of whether the franchisee signs and returns a copy of the notice.
In addition, franchisees need prior approval from Bigfoot Forestry to offer or sell goods or services through alternative channels of distribution and to directly contract with National Account customers or provide Bigfoot Forestry Services involving job sites owned by National Account customers.
Finally, if a franchisee wants to transfer their franchise to someone else, Bigfoot Forestry's approval is required for the transfer to be valid, and it is implied that this approval would be documented. Any transfer without Bigfoot Forestry's approval is considered void and a breach of the agreement.