According to Budget, what constitutes the 'Manual' that Licensees are granted access to?
Budget Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
During the term of this Agreement, Budget will grant Licensee access to the Manual. For purposes of this Agreement, "Manual" means manuals or policies and procedures, Standards, specifications and requirements relating to the Rental Business, as Budget specifies. The Manual may be revised,
changed, modified or supplemented by Budget at any time. Modifications in the Manual will become effective thirty (30) days after written notice thereof to Licensee, unless a longer period is specified in such written notice. The Manual also includes training manuals, development manuals and other business manuals as may be prepared for use by Budget licensees. The Manual may be in printed and/or electronic format and may include audiotapes, videotapes, information available on an Internet site or other electronic media. It may also consist of several component parts and materials Budget may issue, including bulletins, handbooks, newsletters, computer-based and computer-transmitted information. The Manual is confidential and will remain Budget's exclusive property and may not be duplicated, shared or re-distributed. The Manual will be an integral part of this Agreement and references made in this Agreement or in any amendments, exhibits or schedules hereto to the Manual will be deemed to mean the Manual as current. In the event of a dispute relative to the contents of the Manual, the master copies maintained by Budget at its principal office will be controlling.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 80–426)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Budget's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the 'Manual' that licensees are granted access to encompasses a broad range of materials related to the rental business. It includes manuals, policies, procedures, standards, specifications, and requirements as specified by Budget. This comprehensive guide covers various aspects of the business, ensuring franchisees operate in accordance with Budget's established methods.
The Manual is dynamic and subject to change, modification, or supplementation by Budget at any time. Licensees will receive written notice of these changes, which typically become effective 30 days after the notice, unless a longer period is specified. The Manual also includes training manuals, development manuals, and other business manuals designed for Budget licensees, ensuring they have access to the latest information and best practices.
The format of the Manual is flexible, existing in printed and/or electronic forms, including audiotapes, videotapes, information on an Internet site, or other electronic media. It may consist of multiple parts, such as bulletins, handbooks, newsletters, and computer-based information. The Manual is confidential and remains Budget's exclusive property, prohibiting duplication, sharing, or redistribution. It is an integral part of the License Agreement, and Budget maintains master copies at its principal office to resolve any disputes regarding its contents.