What is the 'Concession Agreement' that Chick Fil A is party to, and where can it be found?
Chick_Fil_A Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Chick-fil-A is currently a party to a certain concession agreement attached as Exhibit C as it may be amended from time to time together with all its exhibits and schedules (the "Concession Agreement") with the third party owner or manager of the Site identified in the Concession Agreement ("Concessionor").
Under the Concession Agreement, Concessionor granted Chick-fil-A the right to conduct a restaurant business and/or a license to operate one or more Chick-fil-A concessions at the Site, consisting of the concession location(s) identified in the data sheet attached as Exhibit A as it may be amended from time to time (individually and collectively, the "Concession Location(s)").
The Site is sometimes also referred to in this Agreement as the "Concession Location(s)."
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 103–600)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Chick Fil A's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Chick-fil-A enters into a 'Concession Agreement' with a third-party owner or manager of a site, referred to as the 'Concessionor.' This agreement grants Chick-fil-A the right to operate a restaurant business or concessions at a specific location, known as the 'Concession Location(s).' The data sheet identifying these locations is included as Exhibit A, and the Concession Agreement itself is attached as Exhibit C. These exhibits may be amended over time.
For Chick Fil A franchisees, particularly those operating a 'Captive Venue Unit' (such as in an airport or stadium), understanding the Concession Agreement is crucial. The franchisee, referred to as the 'Operator,' is essentially sublicensing Chick-fil-A's rights under the Concession Agreement. This means the Operator must adhere to the obligations outlined in the Concession Agreement as part of their Franchise Agreement with Chick-fil-A. The Concession Agreement, along with related documents, forms an integral part of the overall agreement between Chick-fil-A and the Operator.
The FDD emphasizes that the Concession Agreement, along with its exhibits, the Franchise Agreement, and any Additional Business Amendments, constitutes the complete agreement between Chick-fil-A and the Operator. Chick-fil-A explicitly cautions potential Operators against relying on any representations or promises not included in these documents or the FDD itself. This underscores the importance of carefully reviewing all attached exhibits, including the Concession Agreement, to fully understand the terms and conditions of the franchise. Any modifications or waivers to the agreement must be in writing and signed by Chick-fil-A to be binding.
In essence, the Concession Agreement dictates the terms under which Chick-fil-A (and by extension, the franchisee) can operate at a specific site managed by a third party. It is a critical document that defines the rights, obligations, and relationship between Chick-fil-A, the franchisee, and the Concessionor. Prospective franchisees should pay close attention to this agreement to ensure they are fully aware of their responsibilities and the conditions under which they will be operating their Chick-fil-A restaurant.