Besides tools and equipment, what other items must a Bumper Man franchisee purchase from Bumper Man or its approved suppliers?
Bumper_Man Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ipment to us.
You must follow the standards and specifications we establish for the supplies, equipment, tools, computer hardware and software required for the operation of the Bumper Business. You must purchase from us or from suppliers we approve or designate: (1) Bumper Man tools and equipment; (2) iPad or tablet; (3) software programs used for invoicing and operations of the Bumper Business; (4) advertising, marketing, and promotional materials; (5) stationary; (6) stickers bearing our Marks; and (7) all other goods and services as we may require from time to time. Information concerning approved and designated suppliers will be communicated to you via the Manual, which may include the standards and specification for certain non-proprietary products, services, and equipment.
We are currently the only approved supplier for the trademarked and logo items used in the operation of the Bumper Business, including uniforms, advertising, promotional and marketing items. We provide to you at no additional cost (except for reimbursement of shipping costs and expenses incurred by us) your initial supply of such uniforms, advertising, promotional and marketing items.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 18–20)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bumper Man's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to purchase certain items from Bumper Man or its approved suppliers. Besides tools and equipment, these include an iPad or tablet, software programs used for invoicing and operations, advertising, marketing, and promotional materials, stationary, and stickers bearing Bumper Man's marks. Additionally, franchisees must purchase all other goods and services that Bumper Man may require from time to time.
The FDD also specifies that franchisees must purchase a vehicle that meets the standards outlined in the Franchise Agreement and Manual. This vehicle is integral to the Bumper Man brand, and any modifications must be approved in writing by Bumper Man. Furthermore, franchisees are required to obtain specific insurance policies from carriers rated A+ or better by A.M. Best Company. These policies include Garage Liability Insurance with a minimum $1,000,000 limit per occurrence, Garage Keepers Insurance with a $50,000 limit per vehicle, and Commercial Vehicle Insurance with a combined single limit of $500,000.
Bumper Man retains control over the purchase of trademarked and logo items, such as uniforms and advertising materials, to protect its trademarks and ensure quality control. While an initial supply of these items is provided at no additional cost (except for shipping), franchisees may purchase supplemental items from Bumper Man at cost. The FDD indicates that required purchases and leases from approved suppliers will constitute a substantial majority (approximately 80%) of the franchisee's initial investment, with up to 1% of operating expenditures also comprising required purchases and leases.
Prospective franchisees should carefully review the Franchise Agreement and Manual to understand the specific standards, specifications, and approved suppliers for all required purchases. It is also important to note that Bumper Man reserves the right to modify the insurance requirements at any time, with such changes described in the Manual. Understanding these requirements is crucial for budgeting and ensuring compliance with Bumper Man's standards.