Is the onsite presence of a Buona Franchisor's representative required when opening a relocated Franchised Business, and if not, what is the process for requesting a waiver?
Buona Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee may not open a relocated Franchised Business without the onsite presence of Franchisor's representative, unless a waiver is requested in writing by Franchisee and approved in writing by Franchisor.
Even if the aforementioned request and approval are granted, Franchisee must obtain Franchisor's written authorization, in its sole discretion, of the specific date that the Franchised Business may open.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 78)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Buona's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee may not open a relocated Buona restaurant without the onsite presence of a Buona representative. However, a franchisee can request a waiver in writing from Buona. This request must be approved in writing by Buona.
Even if the waiver is granted, the franchisee must still obtain Buona's written authorization, in its sole discretion, for the specific date the relocated restaurant can open. This means that even with a waiver for onsite presence, Buona retains control over the opening date of the relocated franchise.
This requirement ensures that Buona maintains quality control and brand consistency even when a franchise location is moved. The waiver process allows for flexibility in situations where onsite support may not be necessary, but ultimately, Buona has the final say in whether a relocated franchise can open and when.