Are there any fees charged for the initial Checkers training program, and if so, under what conditions?
Checkers Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
4.01 Initial Training Program. If you (or your Operating Partner) or any Operator have not within the immediately preceding eighteen (18) months owned or managed a "Checkers" or "Rally's" Restaurant, then prior to opening the Franchised Restaurant, you (or your Operating Partner) and your Operator(s), as applicable, must attend and successfully complete an initial training program on the operation of a Restaurant at such time(s) and place(s) we designate. We may require you (or your Operating Partner) or your Operator(s) to attend and successfully complete periodic or additional training programs. We will not charge any fees for two (2) attendees attending the initial training program. We may charge fees for any additional attendees that you send to the initial training program, as well as for you and your personnel attending any additional training programs (whether optional or mandatory). You will be responsible for all compensation and expenses (including travel, meals and lodging) incurred by you and your personnel in attending any training programs. You must immediately replace any Operator (including the Operating Partner, as applicable) who fails to successfully complete any training program to our satisfaction. You acknowledge and agree that the initial training program and any additional training programs are provided to you and your personnel to protect our brand and the Marks and not to control the day-to-day operation of the Franchised Restaurant.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 91–92)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Checkers's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Checkers does not charge any fees for the initial training program for up to two attendees. This is a notable benefit for new franchisees as it reduces the upfront costs associated with starting the franchise.
However, Checkers may charge fees for any additional attendees beyond the initial two sent to the initial training program. Fees may also be charged for you and your personnel attending any additional training programs, whether these are optional or mandatory. This implies that while the core initial training is covered for a limited number of people, franchisees should budget for potential training costs for additional staff or ongoing development.
It is important to note that franchisees are responsible for all compensation and expenses, including travel, meals, and lodging, incurred by themselves and their personnel while attending any training programs. Additionally, Checkers requires franchisees to immediately replace any operator, including the Operating Partner, who fails to successfully complete any training program to their satisfaction. This underscores the importance of ensuring that all personnel sent for training are adequately prepared and committed to completing the program successfully.
Checkers emphasizes that the initial training program and any additional training programs are provided to protect their brand and marks, and not to control the day-to-day operation of the franchised restaurant. This distinction is important as it clarifies that while training is mandatory and essential, franchisees retain operational control over their restaurant.