Does Churchs Chicken limit the choice of DT Timers, and if so, how?

According to Churchs Chicken's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to obtain, install, and use DT Timers (drive-thru timers) and associated hardware and software that Churchs Chicken specifies in writing. The FDD indicates that Churchs Chicken has preferred vendors that limit the choice of DT Timers available to franchisees. The number of drive-thru lanes at a Churchs Chicken restaurant may also dictate the need for additional DT Timers.

This restriction means that franchisees cannot choose their own DT Timers and must select from the vendors approved by Churchs Chicken. This ensures uniformity and compatibility across all Churchs Chicken locations, allowing for standardized performance tracking and operational efficiency. While this limits a franchisee's autonomy, it also ensures that the equipment meets Churchs Chicken's standards and integrates seamlessly with their systems.

Prospective franchisees should inquire about the specific vendors, the costs associated with DT Timers, and the criteria used to select these preferred vendors. Understanding the available options and the reasons behind these restrictions is crucial for budgeting and operational planning. Franchisees might also want to understand the process for suggesting or requesting approval of alternative DT Timer systems if they find a compelling reason to do so.