What are the requirements for a Circle K franchisee when there are changes in the store manager?
Circle_K Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ill be actively involved in the supervision of management of all of the Circle K Stores owned by Franchisee and will spend adequate management time to ensure Franchisor's standards are maintained at all Stores.
- 8.7 Store Manager. If Franchisee will not be solely responsible for the direct management and daily activities of the Store, Franchisee will hire a Store Manager who will be solely responsible for the direct management and daily activities of the Store. The Store Manager must successfully complete Franchisor's training program prior to the opening of the Store. Franchisee agrees that no person who has been convicted of a felony, has otherwise committed any act involving fraud, or has engaged in any acts that could adversely affect or be detrimental to the goodwill of the Marks and the Business System will be permitted to be employed as a Store Manager.
- 8.8 Uniforms. Franchisee will require its employees to wear the standard attire or uniforms approved by Franchisor and will comply with Franchisor's uniform requirements to promote the Circle K Store image and to protect and further the goodwill associated with the Marks and the Business System.
- 8.9 Payment of Expenses.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 100)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
Based on the 2025 Circle K Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee is not directly managing the store's daily operations, they must hire a Store Manager responsible for these activities. This Store Manager is required to successfully complete Circle K's training program before the store opens. This ensures that the manager is well-versed in the Circle K system and standards.
Circle K has specific criteria for who can be a Store Manager. The franchisee cannot employ anyone convicted of a felony, involved in fraud, or engaged in activities that could harm the goodwill of the Circle K brand. This requirement aims to protect the brand's reputation and maintain customer trust.
Furthermore, Circle K provides initial training to the franchisee or their operations manager and one Store Manager at no cost, except for fees associated with third-party technology training and Regional In-Store Training. The franchisee remains responsible for ensuring their employees receive adequate training beyond this initial program, as they are the sole employer of their employees, including during training programs.