What is the 'Search Period' as it relates to finding a location for my Engineering For Kids franchise?
Engineering_For_Kids Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Within 60 days after signing the Franchise Agreement (the "Search Period"), you must identify and obtain the right to use a location at your own expense. As described above, we will provide you with our minimum standards for EFK Center Locations. We have no other obligation to provide assistance in selecting or securing a site and do not lease premises for centers. You must obtain our written approval of the proposed location before you commit to it. You must notify us of the proposed site and submit a site review report, including photographs, demographic information, and other information that we may require. Within 30 days after we receive the information, we will approve or reject the proposed site in writing. If we disapprove a proposed site, you can submit another proposal. Once you obtain the right to use an approved site, it will be your "Authorized Center Location."
In evaluating your proposed site, we will consider demographic data you provide, as well as other information regarding the characteristics of the location and area. This will include square footage of dedicated space available, signage and visibility, access, condition of the building where the site is located, and the availability of parking. If you used your best efforts, but have not identified a suitable site that we approve by the end of the Search Period, we may extend the Search Period by up to 60 days. If you fail to acquire or lease a site for your EFK Center Location within the Search Period, you will be in default under the Franchise Agreement, and we will have the right to terminate the Franchise Agreement.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 25–36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Engineering For Kids's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the "Search Period" is the timeframe a new franchisee has to identify and secure a location for their business. Specifically, a franchisee has 60 days after signing the Franchise Agreement to find a location.
During this period, Engineering For Kids will provide its minimum standards for EFK Center Locations. The franchisee is responsible for the costs associated with finding the location. The franchisee must then submit a site review report, including photographs and demographic information, for Engineering For Kids's approval. Engineering For Kids then has 30 days to approve or reject the proposed site.
If the franchisee uses their best efforts but cannot find a suitable site within the initial 60-day search period, Engineering For Kids may extend the period by up to 60 days. Failing to secure a site within the Search Period, including any extensions, constitutes a default under the Franchise Agreement and may lead to termination of the agreement.