How does Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill define the 'Operating Partner'?

According to Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Operating Partner is defined as the individual designated in Exhibit B to the Franchise Agreement and ADA (presumably the Americans with Disabilities Act) and any replacement thereof approved by Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill.

This definition is important because the Operating Partner is a key role in the franchise. The agreement between the franchisee and the Operating Partner requires Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill's prior review and approval. The Operating Partner must exert full-time effort to develop and operate the Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill restaurant and cannot engage in other business activities that would conflict with these obligations.

Furthermore, the Operating Partner must complete Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill's training programs to their satisfaction. If the relationship with the Operating Partner terminates, the franchisee must have a qualified replacement within 90 days. Failure to do so or to notify Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill of the termination constitutes a material breach of the Franchise Agreement. For the first franchise, the Operating Partner may function as the General Manager. However, if the franchisee owns more than one franchise, each franchise must have its own General Manager, and the Operating Partner must be responsible for the operations of all franchises.