Does Craters & Freighters guarantee that information or communication systems supplied by them or their approved suppliers will not be vulnerable to problems?
Craters_Freighters Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 6.8 Franchisee's Responsibilities Relating to Vulnerability of Computer Systems.
Franchisee acknowledges and understands that computer systems are vulnerable to computer viruses, bugs, power disruptions, communication line disruptions, Internet access failures, Internet content failures, date-related problems, and attacks by hackers and other unauthorized intruders.
Franchisor does not guarantee that information or communication systems supplied by Franchisor or its approved
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 49–50)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Craters & Freighters' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Craters & Freighters does not guarantee that the information or communication systems they or their approved suppliers provide will be free from vulnerabilities. The FDD acknowledges that computer systems are susceptible to various issues, including viruses, bugs, power and communication disruptions, internet failures, data-related problems, and unauthorized intrusions like hacking.
This means that as a franchisee, you must understand and accept the risks associated with potential failures or vulnerabilities in your computer systems. While Craters & Freighters will provide proprietary software, franchisees are responsible for maintaining their computer systems and software, including purchasing necessary hardware and software, and ensuring high-speed internet access.
Franchisees are also responsible for the costs associated with maintaining and upgrading their computer systems, although the FDD states that the aggregate cost for upgrades, additions, and replacements will not exceed $5,000 per year. However, Craters & Freighters explicitly states that they cannot estimate the total cost of maintaining or upgrading the computer system due to variations in repair history, local service costs, and technological advancements. Therefore, it is crucial for prospective franchisees to factor in potential costs and risks related to IT vulnerabilities when evaluating the Craters & Freighters franchise opportunity.