Is a Craters & Freighters franchisee required to use specific software determined by the franchisor?
Craters_Freighters Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisor will develop, maintain, and grant Franchisee the right to use Franchisor's proprietary operating software ("Proprietary Software").
The Proprietary Software will be the central platform the Franchised Business uses to process customer jobs from start to finish with consistency, efficiency, and accuracy.
Additionally, all royalty reports submitted by the Franchised Business will be managed exclusively through the Proprietary Software, which is also designed to assist Franchisee in streamlining operations and complying with Franchisor's standards.
Franchisor will also require Franchisee to use select software, as solely determined by Franchisor.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 49–50)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Craters & Freighters Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to use both proprietary software developed and maintained by Craters & Freighters, as well as other select software. The proprietary software serves as the central platform for processing customer jobs, managing royalty reports, streamlining operations, and ensuring compliance with Craters & Freighters' standards.
Craters & Freighters retains sole discretion in determining what 'select software' franchisees must use. This means that franchisees do not have a choice in the software they use for certain aspects of their business, and Craters & Freighters can mandate the adoption of new software at any time.
For a prospective franchisee, this requirement means they must budget for the costs associated with any mandated software, including subscription fees, training, and potential integration challenges. It also means they must be prepared to adapt to changes in software requirements as determined by Craters & Freighters. It would be prudent for a potential franchisee to inquire about what 'select software' is currently required and if there are any anticipated changes or costs associated with these software programs.