What happens when a product becomes unauthorized at a Chesters restaurant?
Chesters Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must offer and sell all menu items and products, and perform all services, we periodically require for CHESTER'S Restaurants operated at your type of location. You have no right to offer or sell any menu items or products, or perform any services, we have not authorized. We have the right periodically to change required and/or authorized menu items and services and equipment specifications (including required use of our designated POS system). There are no limits on our right to do so. Once a menu item, product, or service has become unauthorized, your Restaurant no longer may offer or sell it.
Source: Item 16 — RESTRICTIONS ON WHAT THE FRANCHISEE MAY SELL (FDD page 35)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Chesters's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must stop offering or selling any menu item, product, or service that Chesters has deemed unauthorized. Chesters has the right to periodically change required and/or authorized menu items and services and equipment specifications. There are no limits on Chesters's right to do so.
This means that Chesters has full control over the menu and offerings at its franchise locations. A franchisee must comply with any changes Chesters makes to the approved products and services. This could include removing popular items or being forced to adopt new products or services that the franchisee does not believe will be successful.
For a prospective franchisee, this highlights the importance of understanding Chesters's product development and menu strategy. It would be prudent to inquire about the frequency of menu changes, the process for introducing new items, and the criteria used for discontinuing existing ones. Understanding these factors can help a franchisee anticipate and adapt to changes in the Chesters system.