If a Boulder Designs franchisee experiences issues with an 'Approved Supplier', who is liable?

According to the 2025 Boulder Designs Franchise Disclosure Document, Boulder Designs will not be held liable for issues that arise from the designation of standards for the operation of the franchised business under the system. The FDD states that the specifications provided by Boulder Designs do not constitute a warranty or representation, either express or implied, regarding quality, safety, suitability, or fitness for any particular purpose.

This means that Boulder Designs franchisees assume the risk related to the products and services they obtain from approved suppliers. If a franchisee experiences problems with a supplier, such as defective products or poor service, Boulder Designs is not responsible for covering any losses or damages.

This allocation of risk is fairly typical in franchising. Franchisees are generally considered independent business owners, and as such, they are expected to manage their own relationships with suppliers. While Boulder Designs provides a list of approved suppliers, it is ultimately the franchisee's responsibility to vet these suppliers and ensure that they meet their needs. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider this aspect of the franchise agreement and conduct their own due diligence on approved suppliers before investing in a Boulder Designs franchise.