Does Chatime pay 'finders' fees' for sites?
Chatime Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You will provide us with all required information about a site you propose. You will provide a copy of the site lease for our record. We do not pay "finders' fees" for sites. We do not generally own or take a prime lease on real estate and then lease it to our franchisees. We are not required to provide you with assistance in negotiating the purchase or lease of a site, but we may do so in some cases by providing certain supporting data on the site. (Clauses 4.8, 4.9, and 5.4 of the Franchise Agreement).
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 27–35)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Chatime's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Chatime does not pay "finders' fees" for sites. The franchisee is responsible for providing all required information about a proposed site, including a copy of the site lease. Chatime will review the lease to ensure it contains an addendum that gives Chatime the option to assume the lease if the franchisee defaults and requires the landlord to notify Chatime of any defaults.
Chatime will provide standard, generic plans for the store's improvements, but the franchisee must have specific plans prepared by an approved architect at their own expense. These plans, and any changes made during construction, must be approved by Chatime. The franchisee is also required to use Chatime's approved suppliers for real estate, construction management, architectural, engineering, and design services, with all construction costs borne by the franchisee.
Chatime also provides site selection criteria and designates a geographic area for site selection, but the franchisee is responsible for finding the site. Chatime must approve the site, and if a Multi-Unit Development Agreement is in place, each additional location must meet the development schedule and be approved using Chatime's current site criteria. Chatime will not reimburse franchisees for any costs incurred in submitting locations for review and approval. If Chatime and the franchisee cannot agree on a site, Chatime may terminate the franchise agreement, and the initial fee will be forfeited.