What is the Chocolate Bash franchisee's responsibility if CB Franchising provides communication systems?
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)
Based on the 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Chocolate Bash franchisees must adhere to the System Standards set by CB Franchising. These standards encompass various aspects of the business, including technology like communication systems. If CB Franchising provides communication systems, the franchisee is obligated to follow the mandatory procedures, requirements, and standards determined by CB Franchising for these systems. These systems include email, audio, and video systems.
This means a Chocolate Bash franchisee must use the communication systems as specified by the franchisor, ensuring that all communications align with the brand's standards. This could involve using specific software, hardware, or communication protocols. The franchisee is responsible for maintaining and operating these systems according to the franchisor's guidelines.
Failure to comply with these System Standards could result in the franchisee being in breach of the franchise agreement. It is important for prospective franchisees to understand that these standards are not merely suggestions but mandatory requirements that ensure consistency and quality across all Chocolate Bash locations. Therefore, franchisees should be prepared to invest in and maintain the technology and systems as directed by CB Franchising.