What is included in the 'Computer System' that Cool Binz franchisees must use?
Cool_Binz Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
t our discretion.
We shall have the right to specify or require that certain brands, types, makes, and/or models of communications, computer systems, and hardware be used by you, including without limitation: (i) a compatible "back office" computer system that complies with our standards and specifications; (ii) a custom and proprietary point of sale system (the "POS System"), if we make
such a POS System part of our proprietary operating system in the future; (iii) printers and other peripheral hardware or devices; (iv) archival back-up systems; (v) Internet access mode and speed; and (vi) physical, electronic, and other security systems (collectively, the "Computer System"). Currently, your Computer System must include a DSL or cable modem high-speed Internet connection located at your Office Site, and a computer that meets the requirements of the System Standards and for handling of our then-current COOL BINZ Software or other Required Software. We estimate the cost of the computer system to be between $3,000 and $5,000. Computer specifications for hardware and Internet connectivity are provided in Sections 2.H and 2.I of the Franchise Agreement.
During the term of the franchise agreement, we shall have the right, but not the obligation, to develop or designate: (i) computer software programs you must use in connection with any component of the Computer System, including the COOL BINZ Software, designated business management software and designated accounting software (the "Required Software"), which you shall install at your own expense; (ii) updates, supplements, modifications, or enhancements to the Required Software, which you shall install at your own expense; (iii) the tangible media upon which you record data; and (iv) the database file structure of the Computer System. You will be responsible for the payment of all fees associated with the Required Software (including the COOL BINZ Software), Computer System and POS System. Neither us nor our affiliates, or third parties have any obligation to provide ongoing maintenance, repairs, upgrades, or updates to your Computer System or Required Software.
At our request, you shall purchase or lease, and thereafter maintain, the Computer System, COOL BINZ Software, and the Required Software. We may require you to update or upgrade your Computer System at any time during the term of the franchise agreement. There is no limit on our frequency to do so, or the cost of your obligation to maintain, upgrade and update the Computer Systems in conformance with our requirements. We may also require you to use certain internet and cloud-based services or subscriptions as may become relevant as the System and technology changes, at your sole expense.
We may require that your Computer System be programmed to automatically transmit data and reports about the operation of the COOL BINZ Business to us. We shall also have the right to, at any time without notice, electronically connect with your Computer System to monitor or retrieve data stored on the Computer System or for any other purpose we deem necessary.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 36–45)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cool Binz's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Computer System includes several hardware and software components. Cool Binz may specify the brands, types, makes, and models of communications, computer systems, and hardware that franchisees must use. This includes a compatible "back office" computer system, and potentially a custom point of sale system (POS) if Cool Binz makes it part of their operating system in the future.
Additionally, the Computer System encompasses printers and other peripheral hardware, archival back-up systems, the required Internet access mode and speed, and physical, electronic, and other security systems. Currently, franchisees must have a DSL or cable modem high-speed Internet connection at their office site, along with a computer meeting the System Standards for handling Cool Binz Software or other Required Software. The estimated cost for this computer system ranges from $3,000 to $5,000.
Cool Binz also has the right to access a franchisee's Computer System to monitor or retrieve data. Franchisees must provide all access codes and IP addresses to facilitate this access within 30 days of opening their Cool Binz Business. All client and customer data is considered Cool Binz's property and must be provided to them immediately upon termination or expiration of the Franchise Agreement. Franchisees are also obligated to use a customized website connected to Cool Binz's website, as well as the phone model, type, and provider designated by Cool Binz.