Are Bumper Man franchisees required to purchase software programs used for invoicing and operations of the Bumper Business from Bumper Man or 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. You may (and we recommend but do not require you to) purchase supplemental advertising, promotional and marketing items, some of which you will purchase from us at our cost. In addition, you may, at your option purchase apparel and other Bumper Man branded merchandise from us at our cost. We control the purchase of these items to assure protection of our trademarks, trade secret rights and for quality control and uniformity of products and services within the Bumper Man system.
You must purchase a vehicle that meets the standards and specifications set forth in the Franchise Agreement and Manual for the operation of your Bumper Business. The vehicle from which you perform bumper repair and refinishing services is integral to the Bumper Man brand as a mobile bumper repair service provider, and any modifications to your vehicle must be approved by us in advance in writing.
At least two weeks prior to the date upon which we approve you to commence operation of your Bumper Business, you must obtain all required insurance policies. The insurance carrier must be rated A+ or better by A.M. Best Company and be authorized to transact business in the state where the Designated Area is located and the policies must: (1) include a waiver of subrogation provision or endorsement in favor of us; (2) be primary and non-contributory to any other insurance that we have procured for ourselves;
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. This includes software programs used for invoicing and operations of the Bumper Business.
This requirement ensures that all Bumper Man franchisees use standardized systems for critical business functions like invoicing and operations. By mandating the use of approved software, Bumper Man aims to maintain consistency and quality across all franchise locations. This can be beneficial for brand reputation and customer experience.
If a franchisee wishes to use a different supplier for any required item, including software, they must submit a written request for approval to Bumper Man. The franchisee must provide all pertinent information about the proposed supplier, as outlined in the Manual, and cannot make purchases from that supplier unless written approval is granted. Bumper Man has the right to request information, specifications, and samples to ensure the item meets their standards and that the supplier meets their criteria. Bumper Man may also inspect the supplier's facilities and require samples for testing, with the franchisee bearing the costs of the approval process. Bumper Man is not obligated to approve any particular supplier and will notify the franchisee of their decision within 30 days.