Under what conditions can a Buona franchisee relocate their Buona Business after the initial location is approved?
Buona Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We will grant you the right to operate a Buona Business under the Marks at one specific location approved by us ("Approved Location"). Once a site is selected by you and approved by us, you may not relocate your Buona Business without our prior written approval, which approval will not be unreasonably withheld provided you are not then in default under the Franchise Agreement or any other agreement between you and us or any of our affiliates. Our approval for relocation is based on the same standards we use to approve new Buona Business sites.
Source: Item 12 — TERRITORY (FDD pages 46–48)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Buona's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee needs prior written approval from Buona to relocate their business after the initial location is approved. This approval will not be unreasonably withheld as long as the franchisee is not in default under the Franchise Agreement or any other agreement with Buona or its affiliates. The standards Buona uses to approve a relocation site are the same standards it uses to approve new Buona Business sites.
This means that while franchisees do not have complete autonomy over where they operate, Buona is willing to work with them on relocation as long as the franchisee remains in good standing. The approval process will likely involve demonstrating that the new location meets Buona's criteria for success, which could include factors like visibility, accessibility, and demographics.
It is important for prospective franchisees to understand these conditions, as relocating without approval could be a breach of the Franchise Agreement. Franchisees should discuss potential relocation scenarios with Buona during their due diligence to understand the process and criteria involved. This ensures that both parties are aligned on the conditions under which relocation might be considered and approved.