Is a 4G failover internet backup required for a Black Bear Diner franchise?
Black_Bear_Diner Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Internet Connection and Firewall. You must maintain a high speed internet connection at your Franchised Restaurant as well as a managed firewall service from an approved vendor. Your firewall service must segment your network, monitor all traffic on your network and restrict inbound traffic which does not meet proper security protocol. A 4G failover internet backup is required to avoid disruption occurring with your wired connection.
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 28–35)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Black Bear Diner Franchise Disclosure Document, a 4G failover internet backup is required. The FDD states that franchisees must maintain a high-speed internet connection and a managed firewall service from an approved vendor. The firewall service must segment the network, monitor all traffic, and restrict inbound traffic that doesn't meet proper security protocols. To prevent disruptions to the wired connection, a 4G failover internet backup is mandatory.
This requirement ensures that the Black Bear Diner's computer systems, including the point of sale (POS) system, waitlist system, and back-of-house system, remain operational even if the primary internet connection fails. The POS system tracks daily sales, inventory, customer data, and vendor orders. The waitlist system uses computer tablets, and the back-of-house system (Ctuit®) facilitates communication between the franchisee and Black Bear Diner regarding financial, operating, reporting, inventory management, and marketing aspects. PlayerLync® software provides operational documentation in electronic formats.
For a prospective franchisee, this means an additional cost to set up and maintain a 4G failover internet backup. It is important to factor in these ongoing technology expenses when evaluating the overall investment and operating costs of a Black Bear Diner franchise. Franchisees should inquire about approved vendors and the specific technical requirements to ensure compliance with Black Bear Diner's standards.