What are T.I. dollars in the context of a Desi District location?

According to Desi District's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, locations should ideally be in a strip center or stand-alone building in a downtown district and will (preferably) be given attractive rental rates and T.I. dollars from the landlord.

In the context of a Desi District franchise, "T.I. dollars" refer to Tenant Improvement dollars. These are funds that a landlord may provide to a tenant, in this case, a Desi District franchisee, to help cover the costs of improving or customizing the leased space. These funds can be used for things like construction, renovations, or other modifications needed to prepare the location for operation as a Desi District restaurant and grocery market.

Securing T.I. dollars can significantly reduce the initial investment required to open a Desi District franchise. Attractive rental rates and T.I. dollars are preferable for locations. However, franchisees should not rely on receiving T.I. dollars, as they are not guaranteed and depend on negotiations with the landlord. Prospective franchisees should confirm whether T.I. dollars are included in their lease agreement.