For Budget franchisees, who is responsible for acquiring, installing, and maintaining the on-site computer/terminal equipment needed to access and utilize the System?
Budget Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ACQUISITION OF EQUIPMENT
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- Except as provided in Article IV.2. above, Licensee, at its own expense, will acquire, install and maintain, all on-site computer/terminal equipment, computer/terminal interconnections, modems, controllers and other communication equipment, interconnections and services, including an ISP if Licensee elects to connect to the System via the Internet, backup capabilities and materials it may require from time to time in order to access and utilize the System (hereinafter, either individually or collectively, the "Equipment").
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 80–426)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Budget's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee, referred to as the Licensee, is generally responsible for acquiring, installing, and maintaining all on-site computer/terminal equipment needed to access and utilize Budget's system. This includes computer/terminal interconnections, modems, controllers, and other communication equipment. The franchisee is also responsible for securing an Internet Service Provider (ISP) if they choose to connect to the system via the internet, as well as providing backup capabilities and materials.
However, there are exceptions where Budget (referred to as ABCR) takes on these responsibilities. If the franchisee elects to connect to the system via Legacy SNA (Frame Relay) or Aruba/DSL, Budget will acquire, install, manage, and maintain the necessary network communications equipment and interconnections. The franchisee bears the expense for this service, and Budget may adjust these costs periodically based on actual expenses incurred.
Before installing any equipment, the franchisee must obtain approval from Budget to ensure compatibility with the system's operational and communication standards. The franchisee can only use equipment that is on Budget's approved list. The franchisee is also responsible for preparing each site for equipment installation according to Budget's guidelines. If the franchisee uses unapproved equipment or fails to maintain and operate it correctly, they will be liable for any resulting damage or expenses incurred by Budget and other system users. Budget may also suspend the franchisee's network access until the issue is resolved.