What is the non-refundable on-site training fee deposit required by Buona upon execution of the agreement?
Buona Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
trained by Franchisors, Franchisor will make this opportunity available to Franchisee provided training space is available in a regularly scheduled class. For each such additional manager, Franchisee will pay the thencurrent fee for this additional training.
- 8.3 On-Site Opening Assistance. One or more of Franchisor's representatives will provide on-site training and opening assistance to Franchisee and Franchisee's managers and employees prior to and immediately following the date of the opening of the Franchised Business. The length of the on-site training will be as Franchisor deems necessary for the proper opening and initial period of operation of the Franchised Business. Franchisee will pay an on-site training fee in the amount of the then-current daily fee for each of Franchisor's representatives that provide the on-site training plus the travel expenses incurred by Franchisor's representative in conducting the on-site training. Franchisee will pay a non-refundable o
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 78)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Buona's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must pay a non-refundable on-site training fee deposit of $20,000 upon the execution of the Franchise Agreement. This deposit contributes to the overall cost of the on-site training provided by Buona representatives before and after the restaurant's opening.
The FDD specifies that the franchisee is also responsible for covering the then-current daily fee for each of Buona's representatives providing the on-site training, in addition to their travel expenses. The balance of the training fee, after applying the $20,000 deposit, is due upon completion of the on-site training, as determined by Buona, and is also non-refundable.
This financial commitment underscores the importance Buona places on thorough training and support during the initial launch phase of a new franchise. Prospective franchisees should factor this significant upfront cost into their initial investment calculations and understand that the deposit and subsequent training fees are non-refundable, regardless of the training's outcome or the restaurant's performance. It is important to note that this fee does not cover supplemental training, seminars, or meetings that Buona may require the franchisee or their managers to attend, which may incur additional tuition and travel expenses.