What general criteria does Black Bear Diner apply when approving a proposed supplier?
Black_Bear_Diner Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
pplier. However, if an exclusive supplier has not been designated and you desire to use any item, service or supplier in operating the Franchised Restaurant that we have not approved (for items or services that must meet our specifications or require supplier approval), you will first send us sufficient information, specifications and/or samples for us to determine whether the item or service complies with our standards and specifications or the supplier meets our criteria. We may charge a reasonable fee for inspection and/or testing, not to exceed $1,000, and will decide within a reasonable time, typically 30 days, after receiving all requested information whether any proposed item or service meets our specifications or if you may purchase or lease items or services from a proposed supplier. We apply the following general criteria in approving a proposed supplier: ability to provide sufficient quantity of product; quality of products and/or services at competitive prices; production and delivery capability; dependability and general reputation of the supplier and willingness to pay us a fee to join our key vendor network. In addition, suppliers of food products must meet our standards for testing and auditing to assure quality, safety and nutrition. We will notify you in writing of our decision regarding the approval or disapproval of any supplier or item or service. In addition, we will notify you in writing of our revocation of approval of any supplier, or of any item or service no longer meeting our specifications. You may be required to sign contracts with third party suppliers in the f
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 22–26)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Black Bear Diner's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee wants to use a supplier that hasn't been approved, they must submit sufficient information for Black Bear Diner to evaluate if the supplier meets their standards. Black Bear Diner may charge a fee for inspection and testing, up to $1,000, and will typically decide within 30 days whether the proposed supplier is approved.
Black Bear Diner's general criteria for approving a supplier include the ability to provide a sufficient quantity of product, the quality of products and services at competitive prices, production and delivery capability, dependability and general reputation of the supplier, and willingness to pay a fee to join their key vendor network. For food product suppliers, they must also meet Black Bear Diner's standards for testing and auditing to assure quality, safety, and nutrition.
Black Bear Diner will notify franchisees in writing of their decision regarding the approval or disapproval of any supplier, item, or service. They will also provide written notification if the approval of a supplier is revoked or if an item or service no longer meets their specifications. Franchisees may be required to sign contracts with third-party suppliers based on the suppliers' terms.