Is a high-speed internet connection a required hardware component for a Circle K franchise?
Circle_K Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee also agrees to purchase, install and maintain one or more additional DSL or high-speed lines or other future required communication access device designated exclusively for the EPOS System and any required Computer Systems.
Franchisor has the right to designate the specifications of any future required communication access device.
Franchisee agrees to transmit daily item level sales data through the Franchisor approved Back Office System on a daily basis via the DSL or high-speed internet line, or other future required communication access device, in accordance with Franchisor's transmission protocol.
In addition, Franchisee agrees that at all times Franchisee shall have high speed internet access through an established service provider, maintain an active e-mail account on the internet, and keep Franchisor informed of the e-mail address for such account.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 100)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Circle K's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to have a high-speed internet connection. Specifically, franchisees must purchase, install, and maintain one or more additional DSL or high-speed lines, or other future required communication access devices, exclusively for the EPOS (Electronic Point of Sale) System and any required Computer Systems. The franchisor also has the right to designate the specifications of any future required communication access device. This ensures that the Circle K store can reliably transmit daily sales data and maintain consistent communication with the franchisor.
Circle K franchisees must transmit daily item-level sales data through the franchisor-approved Back Office System via the DSL or high-speed internet line, or other future required communication access device, following the franchisor's transmission protocol. Additionally, franchisees must maintain high-speed internet access through an established service provider and keep an active email account, informing Circle K of the email address for that account. This requirement ensures that the franchisee can receive important updates and communications from the franchisor.
This requirement is fairly standard in the franchise industry, as it allows the franchisor to maintain oversight and support for the franchise location. The franchisee is responsible for the costs associated with purchasing, installing, and maintaining the required internet connection and communication devices. Failure to comply with these technology requirements could potentially lead to breaches of the franchise agreement.