What kind of advice and guidance does Bumper Man provide to franchisees?
Bumper_Man Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- (2) Provide you with advice and guidance on business operations, including interpretation and implementation of the policies and procedures in the Manual. (Franchise Agreement – Section 6).
- (3) Conduct, at our option, meetings, seminars, and other related activities regarding the operation of Bumper Man repair services business for franchisees generally, which you may attend. Except as approved by us, any costs you incur in attending such events will be your responsibility. (Franchise Agreement – Section 5(d)).
- (4) Inspect the operations of your Bumper Business and evaluate your performance of bumper repair services to ensure consistency with our standards and specifications at such times as we may deem advisable to maintain the high standards of quality, appearance and service of the Bumper Man system, in person or remotely by telephone where possible. (Franchise Agreement – Section 12(b)).
- (5) Provide, as we deem appropriate, advice and written materials concerning techniques of managing and operating the Bumper Business, including new developments and improvements in equipment, tools, supplies, methods, and operational procedures. (Franchise Agreement – Sections 6 and 9).
- (6) Approve or disapprove of any advertising, marketing or promotional materials and programs you propose. (Franchise Agreement – Section 8(a)). For additional information, see this Item 11, "Advertising."
- (7) Evaluate alternate designated suppliers you may propose for our approval. (Franchise Agreement – Section 6(f)).
- (8) Provide you with invoice processing, billing and collections services for bumper repair services performed for your customers. (Franchise Agreement – Section 4(e)).
Except as described above, we may, but are not obligated to, provide you with assistance in the development and operation of your Bumper Business.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 22–27)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Bumper Man Franchise Disclosure Document, Bumper Man offers franchisees advice and guidance on various aspects of their business operations. During the operation of the Bumper Business, Bumper Man will provide advice and guidance on business operations, including interpreting and implementing policies and procedures outlined in the Manual. They may also conduct meetings and seminars, though attendance costs are the franchisee's responsibility unless approved by Bumper Man. Bumper Man will inspect the franchisee's operations to ensure consistency with their standards. They will also provide advice and written materials on managing and operating the business, including updates on equipment, tools, and operational procedures.
Bumper Man also offers support in advertising, as they will approve or disapprove any advertising, marketing, or promotional materials proposed by the franchisee. They will evaluate alternate designated suppliers suggested by the franchisee for approval. Additionally, Bumper Man provides invoice processing, billing, and collection services for the bumper repair services franchisees perform for their customers. However, the FDD states that Bumper Man is not obligated to provide assistance in the development and operation of the Bumper Business except as described in Item 11.
Prior to opening, Bumper Man assists with initial marketing, including planning, implementation, and promotional material review. They loan the franchisee a set of tools and equipment, including an iPad mini or tablet and printer for invoicing. Franchisees also receive training in Bumper Man's proprietary methods for bumper repair and refinishing. At training, franchisees gain access to the Manual, which includes operating procedures and standards. Bumper Man also provides a list of approved suppliers and vendors. Furthermore, Bumper Man provides on-site assistance in marketing to local automobile dealerships for at least three days.
In terms of technology, Bumper Man loans franchisees an iPad Mini or tablet pre-loaded with Bumper Man software for invoicing. Franchisees are responsible for acquiring and maintaining anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Franchisees are required to use Bumper Man's proprietary software programs and purchase updates as required. Bumper Man will bill customers directly and collect amounts owed based on the invoices submitted by the franchisee. The franchisee is ultimately responsible for ensuring customers pay invoiced amounts for the services provided.