Does Dq Treat require franchisees to maintain a smoke-free environment for customers and employees?
Dq_Treat Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must not sell, offer for sale or otherwise handle alcoholic or intoxicating beverages or controlled substances upon the store premises. You must not have or use, or permit the presence or use of, ATM, video game machines or vending machines or any like coin-operated or electronic device or machine upon the store premises. In addition, you must not offer, sell, use or participate in, any lottery or gambling device of any nature at or from the store premises. Your store must be smoke-free for all customers and employees, and you must post signs on all doors and throughout the store that announce the smoke-free policy.
Source: Item 16 — UItem 16U***:** U**Restrictions on What the Franchisee May Sell (FDD pages 51–55)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Dq Treat's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to maintain a smoke-free environment in their stores for both customers and employees. This policy is part of the restrictions on what franchisees may offer or allow on the premises. Franchisees must post signs on all doors and throughout the store to inform everyone about the smoke-free policy.
This requirement ensures a consistent and healthy environment across all Dq Treat locations, protecting customers and employees from the risks associated with smoking. By implementing a smoke-free policy, Dq Treat aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for a broader customer base, including families and individuals sensitive to smoke. This also aligns with increasing public health awareness and regulations regarding smoking in public spaces.
For a prospective franchisee, this means adhering to the smoke-free policy is not optional but a mandatory aspect of operating a Dq Treat franchise. Failure to comply with this requirement could potentially lead to consequences, as adherence to all brand standards is critical for maintaining the franchise agreement. Franchisees should factor in the cost of signage and the importance of enforcing this policy when managing their store.