Does Bigfoot Forestry require approval for all goods and services a franchisee wants to sell?
Bigfoot_Forestry Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must offer and provide all Bigfoot Forestry Services we require from time to time in our commercially reasonable discretion.
We may designate certain Bigfoot Forestry Services as optional, in which case you have the option, but not the 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 16 — RESTRICTIONS ON WHAT THE FRANCHISEE MAY SELL (FDD page 33)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bigfoot Forestry's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must obtain prior written permission from Bigfoot Forestry to offer any goods or services beyond those the company requires or designates as optional. Franchisees cannot sell any goods or services that Bigfoot Forestry has disapproved. The company retains the right to change authorized goods and services at any time, and franchisees must comply with these changes.
This means a Bigfoot Forestry franchisee's ability to diversify their service offerings is limited by the franchisor's approval. While franchisees can offer optional services, doing so may require additional training, equipment purchases, and licensing. Any deviation from the approved list of goods and services necessitates prior approval from Bigfoot Forestry, giving the company significant control over the franchisee's business activities.
Bigfoot Forestry maintains control over the uniformity and quality of goods and services offered under its brand. This is a common practice in franchising, allowing the franchisor to protect its brand standards and reputation. However, it also means franchisees have less autonomy in responding to local market demands or pursuing innovative service offerings without the franchisor's consent. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider these restrictions and discuss their business plans with Bigfoot Forestry to ensure alignment.