What options does the Burros Fries franchisor have in the event of a loss that materially impairs the Business?
Burros_Fries Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
As between us and the Franchisee, the Franchisee shall bear the entire risk of any damage, loss, theft or destruction to the Business from any cause whatsoever or requisition of the Business by any governmental entity or the taking of title to the Business by eminent domain or otherwise (collectively, "Loss"). The Franchisee shall advise us in writing within ten (10) days of any such Loss. No such Loss shall relieve the Franchisee of the obligation to pay Royalty Fees and all other amounts owed hereunder. In the event of any such Loss, we, at our option, may: (a) if the Loss has not materially impaired the Business (in our reasonable Business Judgment), require that the Franchisee, upon our demand, place the Business in good condition and repair reasonably satisfactory to us as mentioned above; or (b) if the Loss has materially impaired the Business and it is substantially destroyed, (in our sole judgment), we may require the Franchisee to repair the existing Business or find an alternative location within the Territory within ninety (90) days or soonest possible timeframe according to Franchisee's lease. We may extend this period an additional thirty (30) days at our discretion and failure of Franchisee to comply may result in termination of this Agreement. Upon termination, the Franchisee must return to us the System (including
all materials), and we have the first right of refusal to purchase all Assets (as described in Section 24.G), but any such purchase price will be reduced to account for the Loss the Franchisee incurred.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 53)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to the 2024 Burros Fries Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee bears the entire risk of any damage, loss, theft, or destruction to the business. The franchisee is obligated to inform Burros Fries in writing within ten days of any such loss, and this loss does not relieve the franchisee of their obligation to pay royalty fees or any other amounts owed under the agreement.
If a loss materially impairs the Burros Fries business and it is substantially destroyed, Burros Fries has the option to require the franchisee to either repair the existing business or find an alternative location within the territory. The franchisee has 90 days, or the soonest possible timeframe according to their lease, to complete the repairs or find a new location. Burros Fries may extend this period by an additional 30 days at their discretion.
If the franchisee fails to comply with these requirements, Burros Fries may terminate the franchise agreement. Upon termination, the franchisee must return all system materials to Burros Fries. Burros Fries also has the first right of refusal to purchase all assets, but the purchase price will be reduced to account for the loss the franchisee incurred. This clause highlights the importance of insurance coverage and disaster recovery planning for prospective Burros Fries franchisees.