How can a Fat Shack franchisee deviate from the required business hours?
Fat_Shack Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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Franchisee shall at all times during the term of this Agreement keep its FAT SHACK Restaurant open during the business hours as may be designated by FSI from time to time in the Operations Manual.
At a minimum, Franchisee will remain open until 2:30 a.m. two nights a week, and until 12:30 a.m. five days per week.
These minimum standards may be changed by FSI by changes to the Operations Manual.
Any deviations from the required hours must be approved in writing by FSI.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–223)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Fat Shack's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must adhere to the business hours designated by Fat Shack, which are outlined in the Operations Manual. These hours include a minimum requirement to stay open until 2:30 a.m. two nights a week and until 12:30 a.m. five days a week. These minimum standards can be changed by Fat Shack through updates to the Operations Manual.
If a Fat Shack franchisee wants to deviate from these required hours, they must obtain written approval from Fat Shack Franchising International (FSI). This means a franchisee cannot unilaterally decide to change their operating hours without first seeking and receiving permission from the franchisor.
This requirement ensures that all Fat Shack locations maintain consistent brand standards and service levels. For a prospective franchisee, this means they need to be prepared to operate within the hours set by Fat Shack, including late-night service, unless they can justify a change and get it approved in writing. It is important to consider the implications of these hours on staffing, operational costs, and personal lifestyle before investing in a Fat Shack franchise.