With whom is the auditor required to communicate regarding the scope, timing, findings, and internal control-related matters identified during the audit of Checkers?

According to the 2025 FDD, Checkers's auditor is required to communicate certain information to those charged with governance. This communication includes the planned scope and timing of the audit, any significant findings discovered during the audit, and specific internal control-related issues that the auditor identifies while conducting the audit.

For a prospective Checkers franchisee, this indicates that the financial audits are overseen by an independent body that reports its findings to a group responsible for governance. This provides a level of assurance that financial matters are being reviewed and that any significant issues will be brought to the attention of those in charge.

This communication ensures transparency and accountability in the financial reporting process. The "those charged with governance" typically refers to the board of directors or a similar governing body within the Checkers organization. This is a standard practice in corporate governance to ensure that financial audits are thorough and that any potential problems are addressed appropriately.