Is the Dq Treat company responsible for the employment of the restaurant's employees?

According to the 2025 Dq Treat FDD, Dq Treat is not responsible for the employment of the restaurant's employees. The FDD states that the franchisee is an independent business responsible for the control and management of their restaurant. This includes matters such as hiring and discharging employees, setting and paying wages and benefits, and scheduling employees. Dq Treat has no power, responsibility, or liability in respect to these matters.

This means that as a Dq Treat franchisee, you will have full control over your employees. You will be responsible for all aspects of their employment, including hiring, firing, compensation, and scheduling. Dq Treat will not be involved in these decisions. This independence allows you to manage your staff in a way that best suits your business needs and local labor market conditions.

However, the FDD also indicates that franchisees must implement a training program for restaurant employees that complies with Dq Treat's requirements. Franchisees must also ensure that all restaurant employees work in clean uniforms approved by Dq Treat, the cost of which can be borne by the franchisee or the employee. This highlights that while franchisees have autonomy over employment decisions, they must still adhere to Dq Treat's standards and guidelines for training and appearance.

Furthermore, franchisees must comply with all applicable laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances, including labor and employment laws. This includes maintaining the restaurant premises and conducting the restaurant in compliance with these laws. Franchisees are also required to comply with all privacy policies, data protection and security, and breach response policies that Dq Treat may establish. This ensures that franchisees operate their businesses legally and ethically, while also protecting customer data and maintaining the integrity of the Dq Treat brand.