Within how many days after signing the Chesters agreement must the restaurant be opened for business?
Chesters Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must open the Restaurant for business within 180 days after signing the Agreement.
We anticipate that it takes approximately 2 to 4 months after the Agreement is signed and you pay the training fee before the Restaurant is ready to open. Factors affecting this timeframe include construction and remodeling schedules; local ordinance and/or building code compliance; schedules for installing equipment and signs; completing brand standard training programs; delivering and stocking inventory; and other events beyond your control.
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, a franchisee must open their restaurant for business within 180 days after signing the Franchise Agreement. The FDD also notes that it typically takes approximately 2 to 4 months after signing the agreement and paying the training fee for the restaurant to be ready to open.
Several factors can affect this timeframe, including construction and remodeling schedules, compliance with local ordinances and building codes, schedules for installing equipment and signs, completion of brand standard training programs, and the delivery and stocking of inventory. These factors are often beyond the franchisee's direct control, which could potentially impact the ability to meet the 180-day deadline.
Prospective franchisees should carefully consider these potential delays and ensure they have a solid plan to manage these variables. Failure to open within the stipulated timeframe could result in penalties or other consequences as outlined in the Franchise Agreement. It is important for franchisees to maintain open communication with Chesters and any relevant contractors to mitigate potential delays and ensure timely compliance.