What is the approximate upfront cost for the software that Christian Brothers Automotive provides to operate the franchise?
Christian_Brothers_Automotive Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The software that will be provided by CBAC and used to operate your CBA franchise include a shop management system, an accounting software suite, associated middleware, a client communication system, an automotive animations library, an online training platform with relevant content, website hosting, SEO management, a phone call tracking platform, email accounts and cloud document suite, network equipment updates and warranty services, PCI compliance services, an antivirus protection software, remote support agents, and required client access licenses at the approximate upfront cost of $1,650 and the approximate ongoing cost of $10,500 annually, plus data overages. Costs are subject to change and will vary depending on the underlying vendors' current prices. The fees for software purchases are refundable prior to store
opening. See Item 5 and Item 8 for more information about the equipment, furniture and software that will be needed to operate the franchise.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 40–52)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Christian Brothers Automotive's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees can expect an approximate upfront cost of $1,650 for the software provided by CBAC. This software suite includes a shop management system, an accounting software suite, associated middleware, a client communication system, an automotive animations library, an online training platform with relevant content, website hosting, SEO management, a phone call tracking platform, email accounts and cloud document suite, network equipment updates and warranty services, PCI compliance services, an antivirus protection software, remote support agents, and required client access licenses.
In addition to the upfront cost, franchisees should also budget for ongoing software costs, which are approximately $10,500 annually, plus any data overages. These costs are subject to change based on the underlying vendors' current prices. It is important to note that the fees for software purchases are refundable prior to the store opening, which provides some financial flexibility during the initial setup phase.
Prospective franchisees should carefully consider these software costs as part of their overall investment. While Christian Brothers Automotive provides a comprehensive suite of software tools, franchisees should verify with the franchisor the potential for price fluctuations and data overage charges to accurately forecast their operating expenses. Reviewing Items 5 and 8 of the FDD, as suggested, will provide further details on required equipment, furniture, and software.