What is the maximum reimbursement amount a Carls Jr. franchisee can receive for grand opening advertising?
Carls_Jr Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
r ended January 27, 2025, of the total monies spent by the Funds, 11% was spent for production; 74% was spent for media placement; 1% was spent on research/marketing consulting fees; and 14% was spent for miscellaneous expenses, including administrative expenses. No money was spent by the Funds to solicit new franchisees.
You may, during the period beginning 30 days before the scheduled opening of your Franchised Restaurant and continuing for 90 days after your Franchised Restaurant first opens for business ("Grand Opening Period"), conduct such grand opening advertising as CJR and you deem appropriate. CJR will reimburse you up to $5,000, in accordance with our Grand Opening Policy as may be in effect from time to time, for grand opening advertising during t
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 42–55)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Carls Jr. Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee may be reimbursed up to $5,000 for grand opening advertising expenses. This reimbursement is subject to several conditions.
The franchisee must conduct the grand opening advertising during the "Grand Opening Period," which starts 30 days before the restaurant's opening and continues for 90 days after the opening. All advertising expenditures must receive pre-approval from Carls Jr. and comply with the local advertising requirements outlined in the Franchise Agreement.
To receive the reimbursement, the franchisee must provide Carls Jr. with written proof of the advertising and its costs no later than 90 days after the restaurant opens. Meeting these requirements is essential for a Carls Jr. franchisee to take full advantage of the grand opening advertising reimbursement program.