Who is responsible for maintaining the computer system and software programs for a Craters & Freighters franchise?
Craters_Freighters Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You will be responsible for maintaining the computer system and software programs in good repair at your expense. We anticipate that you may be required to upgrade or update the computer system during the term of the franchise. We are not obligated to provide you with ongoing maintenance, repairs, upgrades or updates to your computer system. It is difficult to estimate the cost of maintaining, updating or upgrading your computer system or software as it will depend on your repair history, local cost of such services in its area and technological advances, which we cannot predict at this time. We currently estimate these costs to range from $1,000 to $2,000 per year, although these costs could change frequently and significantly over time as technology changes. However, the aggregate cost of your obligations to carry out upgrades of the computer
system, addition of components to the computer system, and replacement of components to the computer system will not exceed $5,000 per year during the term of your Franchise Agreement.
We reserve the right to independently access your electronic information and data through a proprietary data management and intranet system, and to collect and use your electronic information and data in any manner we choose to promote the development of the franchise system and the sale of franchises.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 22–29)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Craters & Freighters Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is responsible for maintaining the computer system and software programs in good repair at their own expense. Craters & Freighters is not obligated to provide ongoing maintenance, repairs, upgrades, or updates to the franchisee's computer system.
The franchisee is also responsible for purchasing additional hardware, upgrades, software, internet connection and service, dedicated telephone and power lines, and other computer-related accessories, peripherals, and equipment. Craters & Freighters requires franchisees to purchase data processing software (e.g., Microsoft Office suite products) and accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks Pro) to use with Craters & Freighters' proprietary software.
The estimated costs for purchasing these initial items range from $2,000 to $4,000, but these costs may change over time as technology evolves. The estimated annual costs to maintain, update, or upgrade the computer system range from $1,000 to $2,000, but these costs could also change frequently and significantly. However, the aggregate cost of upgrades, additions, and replacements to the computer system will not exceed $5,000 per year during the term of the Franchise Agreement. The franchisee is solely responsible for protecting themselves from viruses, computer hackers, and other communications and computer-related problems.