Which items in the Circle K Disclosure Document relate to the franchisee's pre-opening purchase/lease obligations?

According to Circle K's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Item 9 outlines the franchisee's obligations, including those related to pre-opening purchases and leases. Specifically, section 'b' of Item 9 directly addresses these obligations, referencing various sections within the Convenience Store Franchise Agreement, Software Agreement, Motor Fuel Agreement, Security Deposit Agreement, and Credit Network Agreement. This indicates that a Circle K franchisee will have several financial obligations to fulfill before opening their store. These obligations are further detailed in Items 5, 6, 7, and 8 of the disclosure document.

These pre-opening expenses could include costs associated with site acquisition or leasing, purchasing or leasing necessary equipment and software, initial inventory, security deposits, and fees for accessing credit networks. The agreements mentioned, such as the Motor Fuel Agreement and Credit Network Agreement, suggest that these obligations can vary depending on whether the franchisee intends to sell motor fuel and utilize Circle K's credit network. Understanding these pre-opening financial commitments is crucial for prospective franchisees to accurately assess the initial investment required to start a Circle K franchise.

Prospective franchisees should carefully review the specific sections of the agreements mentioned in Item 9(b) to fully understand the nature and extent of their pre-opening purchase and lease obligations. It is important to note that these obligations are not limited to a single payment or agreement but are spread across multiple agreements and sections, requiring a thorough review of the entire franchise agreement and related documents. Consulting with a franchise attorney or financial advisor is advisable to ensure a complete understanding of these financial responsibilities before signing any agreements.