Can a Buona franchisee modify the standard plans and specifications for construction without written consent from the franchisor?
Buona Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ical floor plans and site build-out specifications for the construction of the Franchised Business; and
- (d) Provide training to Franchisee's owners and managerial employees as set forth in Article VIII of this Agreement.
- 9.3 Standard Plans and Specifications. Franchisor will make available to Franchisee standard plans and specifications to be utilized only in the construction of the Franchised Business. The standard plans and specifications will be initially provided in the Manuals. No modification to or deviations from the standard plans and specifications may be made without the written consent of Franchisor. Franchisee shall obtain, at its expense, further qualified architectural and engineering services to prepare surveys, site and foundation plans, and to adapt the standard plans and specifications to applicable
local or state laws, regulations or ordinances. Franchisee shall bear the cost of preparing plans containing deviations or modifications from the standard plans.
- 9.4 Uniformity; Suppliers.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 78)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Buona's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee cannot modify the standard construction plans and specifications without written consent from Buona. Buona will provide standard plans and specifications for the construction of the franchised business, initially found in the manuals.
While franchisees must obtain architectural and engineering services to adapt the standard plans to local laws and regulations, any deviations or modifications from the standard plans require Buona's written consent. The franchisee bears the cost of preparing plans that contain these modifications.
Furthermore, once the premises are established and approved by Buona, no changes to the interior or exterior design, equipment, or fixtures are allowed without prior written consent from Buona. This ensures uniformity and protects the brand's image.