Who is responsible for ensuring that Degree Wellness employees and independent contractors have the necessary licenses?

According to Degree Wellness's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is responsible for ensuring that their employees and independent contractors have the necessary licenses. Specifically, the franchisee must ensure that all employees and independent contractors hold or are pursuing any licenses, certifications, and/or degrees required by law or by Degree Wellness's Operations Manual, as updated from time to time.

This requirement places a significant responsibility on the franchisee to stay informed about all applicable licensing and certification requirements. They must also monitor their employees' and contractors' compliance with these requirements. This includes not only initial verification but also ongoing monitoring to ensure licenses remain valid and up-to-date.

Furthermore, if Degree Wellness modifies the services offered, it may require the franchisee's General Manager and employees to obtain additional licenses or certifications. The franchisee is solely responsible for all related costs associated with these changes. This highlights the importance of staying adaptable and prepared for potential changes in regulatory requirements or the franchise's operational standards.

In certain cases, Degree Wellness may offer franchises to individuals or entities that are not licensed to practice or provide health-related care, known as "Studio Management Businesses." In these arrangements, the franchisee enters into a management agreement with a licensed professional corporation (PC) that owns and operates the studio. While Degree Wellness must approve the PC and its owners, the franchisee remains responsible for ensuring the PC complies with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations of the state in which the studio is located. The PC will employ and control the personnel who provide health-related services at the studio.