Does Circle K require a high-speed internet connection for the back office PC?
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 device, designated exclusively for the EPOS (Electronic Point of Sale) System and any required Computer Systems. This ensures that the franchisee can transmit daily item-level sales data through the franchisor-approved Back Office System daily.
This high-speed internet access is crucial for the operation of a Circle K franchise. It supports the EPOS system and the back-office computer system, which are essential for transaction data capture, credit and debit card processing, gift card management, electronic messages, inventory management, and sales reporting. The internet connection facilitates the daily transmission of sales data to Circle K, allowing the franchisor to monitor the franchisee's business activities.
Furthermore, Circle K franchisees must maintain an active email account with high-speed internet access and keep Circle K informed of the email address for that account. This requirement ensures that Circle K can communicate effectively with its franchisees and that franchisees can receive important updates and information from the franchisor. The franchisor also has the right to designate the specifications of any future required communication access device.
In summary, a Circle K franchisee must have a reliable high-speed internet connection to support the EPOS system, back-office operations, data transmission, and communication with the franchisor. The franchisee bears the expense of installing and maintaining this internet connection, making it an important consideration in the overall cost of operating a Circle K franchise.