Must a Circle K franchisee license designated software and firmware?
Circle_K Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
equirements of the EPA's Financial Responsibility Regulations (40 CFR Part 280).
Branded Business
You must utilize the TMC Network, our electronic point of sale network, and, in connection therewith, purchase designated back-office system, license designated software and firmware, and purchase other computer equipment we designate. In connection therewith, you must sign the Credit Network Agreement, which sets forth the terms and conditions under which you will utilize the TMC Network. You will be required to pay us a monthly Network Fee in exchange for the right to use the TMC Network. The monthly Network Fee you will be required to pay will be our then-current Network Fee, which as of the date of this Disclosure Document is $50 per month. We reserve the right to modify the Network Fee upon 30 days' advance written notice.
You must purchase all trademarked items and signage from one of our approved sources. We will provide you with a list of approved sources of trademarked items and signage.
Other than the TMC Network (including related software, firmware and equipment), trademarked items and signage, you may purchase any supplies, fixtures, equipment and signs from any source. You will pay the then-current price in effect for all purchases you make from us, our affiliate or any third-party vendor we designate.
The cost of products, services or other items purchased according to our specifications could reasonably represent more than 50% of your total purchases and leases in connection with establishment of y
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 45–52)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Circle K's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees operating a branded business are required to utilize the TMC Network, Circle K's electronic point of sale network. As part of this requirement, franchisees must purchase a designated back-office system, license designated software and firmware, and purchase other designated computer equipment. Franchisees must also sign a Credit Network Agreement outlining the terms and conditions for using the TMC Network.
In exchange for the right to use the TMC Network, Circle K franchisees must pay a monthly Network Fee. As of the date of the Disclosure Document, this fee is $50 per month. However, Circle K retains the right to modify the Network Fee with 30 days' advance written notice.
Beyond the TMC Network requirements, Circle K franchisees must purchase all trademarked items and signage from Circle K's approved sources. While franchisees have flexibility in sourcing other supplies, fixtures, and equipment, the costs associated with products and services purchased according to Circle K's specifications could represent more than 50% of the total purchases and leases for establishing and operating the Branded Business.