Does Dq Treat require ADQ's consent to the location of a franchisee's store?

According to Dq Treat's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must obtain ADQ's consent for their store's location. While franchisees are not obligated to purchase or lease real estate from ADQ or its affiliates, securing ADQ's approval for the store location is a mandatory step. Furthermore, ADQ retains the right, but not the obligation, to approve the lease for the store premises before it is executed.

This requirement ensures that Dq Treat maintains consistent brand standards and strategic placement of its locations. By controlling location approvals, Dq Treat can avoid oversaturation in certain markets and ensure that new stores are situated in areas that align with the brand's target demographic and market strategy. This also allows Dq Treat to maintain a consistent brand image and customer experience across all locations.

For prospective franchisees, this means that site selection is not solely their decision. They will need to work closely with Dq Treat to identify a suitable location and obtain the necessary approvals. This process may involve submitting detailed site information, market analysis, and business plans to ADQ for review. Franchisees should factor in the time required for this approval process when planning their store launch.

Additionally, franchisees are responsible for constructing and equipping their stores according to Dq Treat's current design, specifications, and standards. They must also ensure that their building plans comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act and all other applicable federal, state, and local laws. This ensures uniformity and compliance across all Dq Treat locations.