Is a Bombs Away franchisee's obligation to pay fees dependent on Bombs Away Franchising's performance?
Bombs_Away Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
(g) Obligations Independent; No Set-Off. The obligations of Franchisee to pay to Bombs Away Franchising any fees or amounts described in this Agreement are not dependent on Bombs Away Franchising's performance and are independent covenants by Franchisee. Franchisee shall make all such payments without offset or deduction.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 35–36)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Bombs Away's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee's obligation to pay fees is not dependent on Bombs Away Franchising's performance. The franchise agreement specifies that the franchisee's payment obligations are independent covenants. This means that franchisees are required to make all payments without any deductions or offsets, regardless of Bombs Away Franchising's performance.
This clause is standard in franchise agreements. It ensures that Bombs Away receives the necessary revenue to support the franchise system, regardless of individual franchisee satisfaction or perceived service quality. It also means that a franchisee cannot withhold royalty payments or other fees as a form of protest or negotiation.
The franchisee is obligated to pay all fees and amounts described in the agreement, irrespective of Bombs Away Franchising's performance. This includes the initial franchise fee, royalty fees (8% of Gross Sales), marketing fund contributions (2% of Franchisee's Gross Sales), and other fees outlined in the franchise agreement. Franchisees should carefully consider this aspect and ensure they are prepared to meet their financial obligations throughout the term of the agreement, irrespective of their satisfaction with the franchisor's services.
In practical terms, even if a Bombs Away franchisee believes that Bombs Away Franchising is not providing adequate support or is failing to meet its obligations, the franchisee is still legally required to pay all fees as outlined in the franchise agreement. Failure to do so can result in penalties, interest charges, and potential legal action by Bombs Away Franchising.