Is written consent required from Buona for any modifications to the standard plans and specifications?
Buona Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Promptly after obtaining possession of the site for the Franchised Business, Franchisee will: (i) cause to be prepared and submit for approval by Franchisor a site plan.
Franchisor shall then provide basic drawings and specifications, including requirements for dimensions, exterior design, materials, interior layout, equipment, fixtures, furniture, signs, and decorating required for the development of the Franchised Business; Franchisee is required to hire a licensed architect designated by Franchisor and have these drawings and specifications modified by the architect as required, to meet applicable ordinances, building codes or permit requirements (Franchisor must approve any such modifications to the drawings and specifications); and to fit the configuration of the approved site; (ii) obtain all required zoning changes, all required building, utility, health, sanitation and sign permits and any other required permits and licenses; (iii) purchase or lease equipment, fixtures, furniture and signs as hereinafter provided; (iv) complete the construction and/or remodeling, equip, furnish and decorate the Franchised Business in full and strict compliance with plans and specifications approved by Franchisor and all applicable ordinances, building codes and permit requirements; (v) obtain all customary contractors' sworn statements and partial and final waivers of lien for construction, remodeling, decorating and installation services; and (vi) upon completion of construction, furnish Franchisor final costs for the construction, equipment, build-out, deposits, and total development of the Franchised Business.
Once the premises of the Franchised Business is established and approved by Franchisor, no changes in the interior or exterior design of the Franchised Business or the equipment or fixtures used within may be made without prior written consent of Franchisor.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 78)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Buona's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees need prior written consent from Buona for modifications to the standard plans and specifications of the franchised business. Specifically, after the premises are established and approved by Buona, any changes to the interior or exterior design, equipment, or fixtures require this consent.
This requirement ensures that all Buona locations maintain a consistent brand image and operational standard. While franchisees may need to modify the initial drawings and specifications to meet local ordinances or building codes, these modifications also require Buona's approval. The franchisee is required to hire a licensed architect designated by Buona and have these drawings and specifications modified by the architect as required, to meet applicable ordinances, building codes or permit requirements, and Buona must approve any such modifications.
For a prospective Buona franchisee, this means that any desired changes to the restaurant's design or equipment after the initial setup must be submitted to Buona for approval. This could potentially limit the franchisee's flexibility in customizing the restaurant but helps maintain uniformity across all locations, which is a common practice in franchising.