Is a Buona franchisee required to obtain written consent from the franchisor before making any alterations or improvements to the Franchised Business?
Buona Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 10.1 Maintenance and Renovation of the Franchised Business. Franchisee understands and acknowledges that every detail of the System is important to Franchisor, Franchisee and other franchisees so as to develop and maintain high and uniform operating standards, to increase the demand for Buona products and services and to protect the reputation and goodwill of Franchisor, the System and the Marks. Accordingly, Franchisee agrees that:
- (a) Franchisee shall maintain, at all times during the Term, at Franchisee's expense, the premises of the Franchised Business and all fixtures, furnishings, signs, systems and equipment, in conformity with Franchisor's high standards and public image and to make such additions, alterations, improvements, repairs, and replacements (but no others, without Franchisor's prior written consent) as may be required by Franchisor from time to time, including but not limited to the following, at Franchisee's sole cost and expense:
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 78–356)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Buona's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must obtain prior written consent from Buona before making alterations or improvements to the franchised business. Buona emphasizes the importance of maintaining uniform standards to protect the brand's reputation.
Specifically, while franchisees are responsible for maintaining the premises and all fixtures to meet Buona's standards, they cannot make additions, alterations, improvements, repairs, or replacements without prior written consent from Buona. This requirement ensures that all locations adhere to the franchisor's standards for quality, cleanliness, appearance, and service.
This provision allows Buona to control the consistency of its brand image and operational standards across all franchise locations. For a prospective franchisee, this means any desired changes to the business's physical structure or appearance must be approved by Buona, potentially adding time and complexity to renovation or improvement projects. It is important for franchisees to factor in these requirements when planning for ongoing maintenance and upgrades to their Buona franchise.