Who is responsible for the expense of installing or purchasing the specified hardware and software, and the delivery cost of all hardware and software for a Carls Jr. franchise?

According to the 2025 Carls Jr. Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is responsible for the expenses associated with hardware and software. Specifically, the franchisee must procure and install data processing equipment, computer hardware and software, telephone and power lines, modems, printers, and other related equipment as specified by Carls Jr.

Carls Jr. requires that the franchisee's computer system be compatible with the system maintained by Carls Jr. or its affiliates. The franchisee must provide any assistance needed to integrate their system with Carls Jr.'s. Carls Jr. retains the right to access data and information from the franchisee's computers, including sales and menu mix data.

The FDD states that the franchisee bears the full cost for all hardware and software, including installation, purchase, and delivery. This means a prospective Carls Jr. franchisee should carefully consider these technology costs when evaluating the overall investment required to start and operate the franchise.