Who is responsible for the costs associated with obtaining third-party food safety certifications for a Brueggers Bagels franchise?

According to Brueggers Bagels' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is responsible for covering all costs and expenses related to obtaining any required third-party food safety certifications. This includes certifications that Brueggers Bagels designates, such as "ServSafe" certification. These certifications are mandatory for Certified Managers and must be secured before the restaurant opens.

This requirement means that prospective Brueggers Bagels franchisees need to budget for these certification expenses as part of their initial investment. The FDD does not specify the exact cost of these certifications, so franchisees should contact Brueggers Bagels for more detailed information. It is common practice in the food service industry for franchisees to bear the costs of food safety certifications for their employees, as these certifications ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Furthermore, if a Certified Manager leaves their position, the franchisee must ensure that their replacement obtains the necessary certifications within 30 days. This ongoing responsibility highlights the importance of planning for continuous training and certification expenses throughout the franchise term. Failing to maintain certified managers could result in operational disruptions or non-compliance issues, potentially impacting the franchise's performance and reputation.