Who is considered the "Key Individual" for a Circle K franchise if the franchisee is an individual?
Circle_K Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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- "Key Individual" means (a) Franchisee, if Franchisee is an individual, or (b) an individual designated by Franchisee with the authority and responsibility for the operation and management of the Store and identified by name on the signature page of this Agreement, if Franchisee is a legal entity.
The Key Individual must be a person authorized to represent and bind Franchisee in all matters arising under this Agreement (including all related agreements) and all matters relating to the Store.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 100)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Circle K's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if the franchisee is an individual, then the franchisee themselves is considered the "Key Individual". This individual holds the authority and responsibility for the Circle K store's operation and management. Their name must be identified on the signature page of the Franchise Agreement.
The Key Individual must be authorized to represent and bind the franchisee in all matters related to the Franchise Agreement and the store's operations. This means they have the power to make decisions and commit the franchisee to obligations under the agreement.
This designation is important because it clarifies who Circle K will primarily interact with regarding the franchise. Even if the franchisee hires managers or other staff, the Key Individual remains the main point of contact and is ultimately accountable for the store's performance and compliance with the franchise agreement.