Does Deer Solution guarantee that franchisees will benefit from technology developments and improvements funded by the Brand Development Fund?

According to Deer Solution's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, there is no guarantee that franchisees will benefit from technology developments and improvements funded by the Brand Development Fund. While Deer Solution may use the fund to develop and test technologies to improve the operations and marketing of Deer Solution businesses, franchisees may or may not benefit from these developments.

Deer Solution has the discretion to use the Brand Development Fund for various purposes, including market studies, research, service and product development, technology development, advertising, and public relations. The fund can also cover administrative and personnel costs associated with these activities. The Brand Development Fund is supported by franchisee contributions of up to 3% of weekly gross sales. As of December 31, 2024, the fund had collected $30,209.52, which was allocated to advertising and marketing (5.8%), consulting and fund administration (9.7%), creative and content production (64.9%), and marketing technology and digital infrastructure (19.5%).

Deer Solution is not obligated to segregate the Brand Development Fund from its general operating funds and is not considered a fiduciary or trustee of the fund. The Brand Development Fund will not be used to directly promote an individual franchisee's Deer Solution Business or marketing area. This means that while franchisees contribute to the fund, the benefits they receive from technology developments and improvements are not guaranteed and are subject to Deer Solution's discretion.