What do the 'Licenses, Permits, and Utility Deposits' estimates cover for a Chatime franchise?
Chatime Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
pen and during the grand opening phase.
- (8) Licenses, Permits, and Utility Deposits. These are the estimates for business licenses, business permits, and utility deposits that may be required by local, state, and other governmental authorities, or any utility providers.
(9) Technology Systems
Components of our technology stack currently include: Revel point of sale system, Bite customer facing self-serve kiosk, Stratos digital menu board and supporting software, Olo delivery aggregator middleware, Como Chatime digital application (app)
Source: Item 7 — Estimated Initial Investment (FDD pages 17–22)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Chatime's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the 'Licenses, Permits, and Utility Deposits' estimate covers the costs of business licenses, business permits, and utility deposits. These may be required by local, state, and other governmental authorities, or any utility providers. The estimated cost for these items ranges from $3,500 to $5,500, payable as a lump sum to a third party.
For a prospective Chatime franchisee, this means setting aside funds to cover the necessary legal and operational authorizations and initial utility setup. These costs are a mandatory part of starting the business and ensuring compliance with local regulations. The range suggests that costs can vary depending on the specific location and its requirements.
It is important for potential franchisees to investigate the specific licensing and permitting requirements in their chosen location to budget accurately. Contacting local authorities and utility companies can provide more precise estimates, ensuring that the franchisee is prepared for these initial expenses. Failing to account for these costs could lead to delays in opening the Chatime store or potential legal issues.