Does the definition of 'System Standards' for a Chocolate Bash franchise include technology?
Chocolate_Bash Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- "System Standards" means, as of any given time, the then-current mandatory procedures, requirements, and/or standards of the System as determined by CB Franchising, which may include without limitation, any procedures, requirements and/or standards for appearance, business metrics, cleanliness, customer service, design (such as construction, decoration, layout, furniture, fixtures and signs), equipment, inventory, marketing and public relations, operating hours, presentation of Marks, product and service offerings, quality of products and services (including any guaranty and warranty programs), reporting, safety, technology (such as computers, computer peripheral equipment, smartphones, point-of-sale systems, back-office systems, information management systems, security systems, video monitors, other software, backup and archiving systems, communications systems (including email, audio, and video systems), payment acceptance systems, and internet access, as well as upgrades, supplements, and modifications thereto), uniforms, and vehicles.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 38–39)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Chocolate Bash's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the definition of 'System Standards' does include technology. Specifically, the System Standards encompass mandatory procedures, requirements, and standards determined by Chocolate Bash, which may include standards for various aspects of the business.
These standards explicitly cover technology, including computers, computer peripheral equipment, smartphones, point-of-sale systems, back-office systems, information management systems, security systems, video monitors, other software, backup and archiving systems, communications systems (including email, audio, and video systems), payment acceptance systems, and internet access, as well as upgrades, supplements, and modifications thereto.
For a prospective franchisee, this means that Chocolate Bash has the authority to set mandatory technology requirements for the franchise. Franchisees must adhere to these standards, which may involve using specific hardware, software, and systems. This ensures uniformity and consistency across all Chocolate Bash locations and allows for centralized management and support of the technology infrastructure. Franchisees should be prepared to invest in and maintain the technology systems as specified by Chocolate Bash.