Where does the initial brand standard training program for Chesters typically occur?
Chesters Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Before the Restaurant opens, your manager and the employees we designate must attend and complete our initial brand standard training program to our satisfaction. [Agreement — Sections 4 and 7] The initial brand standard training program will occur at the Restaurant, so we do not anticipate any travel, lodging, and living expenses for your trainees. You and your employees must pay all expenses incurred in attending brand standard training programs that are not at the Restaurant. We have the right to provide additional brand standard training programs we deem appropriate. With our prior written approval, your training managers may train new and additional Restaurant employees.
The initial brand standard training program will last up to 4 days and includes classroom instruction and/or on-the-job training. We conduct training on an as-needed basis at your Restaurant. Training should be scheduled so that your trainees successfully complete the initial brand standard training program and graduate about 1 week before the Restaurant opens.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 24–29)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Chesters's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the initial brand standard training program typically takes place at the franchisee's Restaurant location. This means that new franchisees and their designated employees will receive their primary training on-site, eliminating the need for travel and associated lodging expenses. However, it's important to note that if training occurs at a location other than the franchisee's restaurant, the franchisee is responsible for covering all travel and living expenses for their trainees. Chesters also retains the right to provide additional training programs as deemed necessary.
The initial brand standard training program lasts up to 4 days and includes both classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Chesters schedules this training to ensure that trainees complete the program approximately one week before the restaurant's opening. This timeline allows for a smooth transition into operations. The FDD also specifies that direct supervision of training is provided by staff and Area Developers with previous Chesters Restaurant management and training experience, ensuring that franchisees receive guidance from experienced personnel.
Chesters offers a detailed breakdown of the training program, including the subjects covered and the allocated hours for both classroom and on-the-job training. The training covers a range of topics, including Chester’s Story and Training Overview, Review of Operations Manuals/Recipe Books/Training Guides, LSM & Marketing Review, MenuBuilder, Restaurant Management, Inventory Control/Ordering Guide, Training Discussion/Support Visit Follow Up, Customer Service, Food Preparation Procedures, Packaging Procedures, Filtering and BoilOut of Fryers, Breakfast Preparation, Product Preparation, Product Specifications and Packaging, and Customer Service Practicum. The training hours vary by subject, with some topics involving classroom instruction and others focusing on hands-on experience. For example, Food Preparation Procedures involves 2 hours of classroom training and 3 days of on-the-job training, while Customer Service includes 30 minutes of classroom training and 2 hours of practical application. This comprehensive approach ensures that franchisees and their employees are well-prepared to operate a Chesters restaurant effectively.