Is a Burros Fries franchisee responsible for ensuring their technology items function properly?
Burros_Fries Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Franchisee acknowledges that we have spent considerable time in developing the Products, Services, standards, processes, methods and technology used in the operation of a Burros & Fries Business. Accordingly, Franchisee acknowledges that Franchisee is to use only approved products, supplies, kitchen equipment, vendors, suppliers and services that includes, but is not limited to: ingredients (such as dry goods, our spice packages, sauces, dressings, condiments, etc.), fresh produce, dairy products; beverage products (such as: tea, carbonated drinks, juices and specialty beverages), supplies (such as small wares, disposables, packaging materials, disposables and cooking supplies), any merchandise for sale (such as: shirts, hats, baby bibs, etc.), kitchen equipment (such as: refrigerators, freezers, etc. as described in Item 7), furnishing and fixtures, technology items (such as computers, POS system, sound system, etc.), software, printed menus, signage, uniforms, professional laundry services, merchant services, POS and technology support services and printed advertising materials necessary for the operation of the Business.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 53)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to the 2024 Burros Fries Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must use only approved products, supplies, kitchen equipment, vendors, suppliers, and services. This includes technology items such as computers, POS systems, and sound systems. While the FDD excerpt does not explicitly state that the franchisee is responsible for ensuring these technology items function properly, it does state that the franchisee must use approved POS and technology support services.
This requirement implies that Burros Fries franchisees are responsible for maintaining their technology items by utilizing the approved support services. It also suggests that franchisees may need to cover the costs associated with these support services to keep their technology operational. This is a common practice in franchising, where franchisors require specific technology and vendors to ensure consistency and quality across all locations.
Prospective Burros Fries franchisees should clarify with the franchisor the exact scope of their responsibility for maintaining technology items. Specifically, they should inquire about what is covered under the approved technology support services, what costs they can expect to incur for these services, and what steps they should take if technology malfunctions or requires updates. Understanding these details will help franchisees budget for ongoing technology maintenance and support.