What functions does an 'Associate Chair' perform within a C12 Group franchise?
C12_Group Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
An "Associate Chair" is a person who is not a franchisee but who has been selected by both C12 and the franchisee to perform many of the same functions such as building and facilitating Business Forums within the Principal Chair's franchise area. An "Area Chair" is either a "Principal Chair" or an "Associate Chair."
Source: Item 1 — THE FRANCHISOR AND ANY PARENTS, PREDECESSORS, AND AFFILIATES (FDD pages 8–9)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to C12 Group's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, an Associate Chair is not a franchisee but is selected by both C12 Group and the franchisee. Their primary function is to perform many of the same duties as the Principal Chair, specifically building and facilitating Business Forums within the Principal Chair's franchise area. An Area Chair is defined as either a Principal Chair or an Associate Chair.
In practical terms, this means that a C12 Group franchisee (Principal Chair) has the option to expand their business by bringing in Associate Chairs to manage additional Business Forums within their territory. This allows the franchisee to scale their operations and serve a larger number of members without directly managing all the forums themselves.
It's important to note that the Associate Chair is jointly selected by both the franchisee and C12 Group, suggesting that C12 Group has a say in who is chosen to represent their brand. This may ensure that Associate Chairs meet certain qualifications and adhere to C12 Group's standards. Prospective franchisees should inquire about the process for selecting and training Associate Chairs, as well as the financial arrangements between the franchisee and the Associate Chair.