What software does Christian Brothers Automotive provide to franchisees?
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.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 33–36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Christian Brothers Automotive's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to use specific software provided by the company to operate their franchise. This software includes a shop management system, an accounting software suite, associated middleware, and a client communication system. Additionally, Christian Brothers Automotive provides an automotive animations library, an online training platform, website hosting, SEO management, and a phone call tracking platform. Franchisees also receive email accounts and a cloud document suite, network equipment updates and warranty services, PCI compliance services, antivirus protection software, remote support agents, and the necessary client access licenses. The upfront cost for this software is approximately $1,650, with ongoing annual costs of around $10,500, excluding potential data overages. These costs are subject to change based on the vendors' current pricing.
This bundled software package is essential for managing various aspects of the Christian Brothers Automotive business, from shop operations and accounting to client communication and online presence. The initial and ongoing costs associated with the software should be factored into the franchisee's financial planning. The fact that costs are subject to change based on vendor pricing introduces a degree of uncertainty, highlighting the importance of staying informed about potential fluctuations. The fees for software purchases are refundable prior to store opening.
Christian Brothers Automotive's control over the software used in the franchise system ensures consistency and standardization across all locations. This can be beneficial for maintaining brand identity and service quality. However, franchisees have limited flexibility in choosing alternative software solutions, as they are required to use the systems provided by Christian Brothers Automotive. Prospective franchisees should carefully evaluate the provided software to ensure it meets their operational needs and that they understand the associated costs and potential changes in pricing.