Does Browns Chicken have the right to inspect the store premises?
Browns_Chicken Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
A. Brown's Right to Inspect The Store.
To determine whether Franchisee and the Store are complying with this Agreement, and with specifications, standards and operating procedures prescribed by Brown for the operation of BROWN'S Stores, Brown or its agents shall have the right, at any reasonable time and without prior notice to Franchisee, to: (1) inspect the Premises; (2) observe the operations of the Store for such consecutive or intermittent periods as Brown deems necessary; (3) interview personnel of the Store; (4) interview customers of the Store; (5) inspect and copy any books, records and documents relating to the operation of the Store; (6) take a physical inventory of the assets of the Store; and (7) remove samples of any products and supplies. Franchisee agrees to fully cooperate with Brown in connection with any such inspections, observations and interviews. Franchisee shall present to its customers such evaluation forms as are periodically prescribed by Brown and shall participate and/or request its customers to participate in any surveys performed by or on behalf of Brown.
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD page 43)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Browns Chicken's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Browns Chicken has the right to inspect the store premises. To ensure compliance with the franchise agreement, standards, specifications, and operating procedures, Browns Chicken or its agents can inspect the premises at any reasonable time without prior notice.
This inspection can include observing store operations, interviewing personnel and customers, inspecting and copying books, records, and documents, taking physical inventory, and removing product samples. The franchisee must fully cooperate with Browns Chicken during these inspections, observations, and interviews. Franchisees are also required to present customer evaluation forms and participate in surveys.
Furthermore, if Browns Chicken determines that the store's repair or appearance doesn't meet their standards, they will notify the franchisee to correct the deficiency. If the franchisee fails to initiate corrections within 30 days, Browns Chicken has the right to enter the premises and perform the maintenance or refurbishing themselves, with the franchisee responsible for covering all costs. Browns Chicken also has the right to audit the business records of the store at any time during business hours and without prior notice to the franchisee.