Under what conditions might Degree Wellness require a franchisee to establish their website as part of the Degree Wellness website?
Degree_Wellness Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
6.4 Technology Fee. You are required to pay the monthly Technology Fee, defined and discussed in Section 11.4, for certain Website and technology-related services and expenses and any fees relating to the required human resources and payroll services discussed in Section 10.7.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 66–257)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
Based on the 2025 FDD, Degree Wellness requires franchisees to pay a monthly Technology Fee for website and technology-related services. The FDD does not explicitly state the conditions under which a franchisee might be required to establish their website as part of the Degree Wellness website. However, it does mention that the Technology Fee covers certain Website and technology-related services.
Item 11.4 further describes the Technology Fee, stating that it covers website services, support, maintenance, upgrades, and related expenses. This suggests that Degree Wellness provides a standardized website platform for its franchisees, and the Technology Fee ensures that franchisees have access to these services. The FDD also mentions that Degree Wellness may modify the system, including adding new components to services and products offered and equipment used by Studio franchises. This could potentially include changes to the website platform or the integration of franchisee websites into the main Degree Wellness website.
While the FDD does not explicitly state the conditions for mandatory website integration, it implies that Degree Wellness has the right to modify the franchise system and require franchisees to comply with changes, including those related to technology and website services. A prospective franchisee should clarify with Degree Wellness the specific circumstances under which they would be required to integrate their website with the main Degree Wellness website and what control they would have over their individual site.
In summary, while the FDD does not provide explicit conditions, the Technology Fee and the right of Degree Wellness to modify the system suggest that franchisees may be required to align their website with the Degree Wellness platform as part of the franchise agreement.