Under what condition are Chesters franchisees not required to advertise on DOT signs?
Chesters Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You also must advertise your Restaurant at your own expense on a reasonable number of DOT signs on nearby interstates. However, if no DOT signs are available for advertising activities, you need not conduct this advertising until they become available. We and you periodically will discuss and reasonably determine the availability of DOT signs for advertising. We need not spend any amount on advertising in your market area. In all cases, we have the right to review and approve (or disapprove) all advertising and promotional materials you propose to use. You have no right to use any advertising or promotional materials we have not approved or have disapproved. While there is no contractual timeframe within which we must respond, we expect to respond to you within 30 days. You cannot without our prior written approval develop, maintain, or authorize any website that mentions the Marks. [Agreement — Sections 8 and 12]
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, franchisees are generally required to advertise their restaurant on a reasonable number of DOT signs on nearby interstates. However, this requirement is waived if no DOT signs are available for advertising activities in the area.
Chesters and the franchisee will periodically discuss and reasonably determine the availability of DOT signs. This implies an ongoing dialogue between the franchisee and franchisor regarding advertising options and the feasibility of DOT sign advertising.
It's important to note that Chesters is not obligated to spend any amount on advertising in the franchisee's market area. Additionally, Chesters retains the right to review and approve all advertising and promotional materials the franchisee proposes to use, ensuring brand consistency and compliance with their standards. Franchisees cannot use any advertising or promotional materials that Chesters has not approved or has disapproved.