Is a Fat Shack franchisee required to purchase POS system software modifications and upgrades from a designated supplier?
Fat_Shack Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We require that you purchase from the supplier of the POS System or another designated supplier all modifications and upgrades to the POS System software. Except for the support, maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and updates provided in exchange for these payments to us or the approved supplier, neither we nor any approved supplier is obligated to provide ongoing support, maintenance, repairs, upgrades, or updates for your POS System. You may not install software on the POS System that has not been approved in advanced by us and our designated POS System supplier. The POS System installation, configuration, integration and operation must be performed in accordance with our standards and specifications, which are subject to change at our discretion without any contractual limitation.
We have the right to independently access all POS System information. We have no contractual limitation on our right to receive information through the POS System.
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 28–36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Fat Shack's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to purchase all modifications and upgrades to the POS system software from either the POS system supplier or another supplier designated by Fat Shack. This requirement ensures uniformity and compatibility across all Fat Shack locations.
Neither Fat Shack nor any approved supplier is obligated to provide ongoing support, maintenance, repairs, upgrades, or updates for the POS system, except for the support, maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and updates provided in exchange for payments to them. This means that franchisees may incur additional costs for these services. Franchisees are also prohibited from installing any unapproved software on the POS system, maintaining Fat Shack's control over the system's integrity and security.
The POS system installation, configuration, integration, and operation must adhere to Fat Shack's standards and specifications, which are subject to change without contractual limitation. Fat Shack also retains the right to independently access all POS system information without any contractual limitations. These stipulations grant Fat Shack significant control over the POS system and the data it generates, which is a common practice in franchising to maintain brand standards and monitor performance.