What is the maximum timeframe FSI has to respond to a Fat Shack franchisee's request to change suppliers?
Fat_Shack Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In the event Franchisee desires to purchase products, services, supplies or materials from manufacturers, suppliers or distributors other than those previously approved by FSI, Franchisee shall, prior to purchasing any such products, services, supplies or materials, give FSI a written request to change supplier. FSI shall notify Franchisee in writing of its approval or rejection of the proposed supplier within a reasonable time, but not to exceed 30 days after FSI's completion of its investigation of the proposed supplier. FSI may from time to time inspect any manufacturer's, supplier's, or distributor's facilities and products to assure proper production, processing, storing and transportation of products, services, supplies or materials to be purchased by Franchisee. Permission for such inspection shall be a condition of the continued approval of such manufacturer, supplier or distributor. FSI may, in its sole discretion, for any reason whatsoever, elect to withhold approval of the manufacturer, supplier or distributor; however, in order to make such determination, FSI may require that samples from a proposed new supplier be delivered to FSI for testing prior to approval and use. A charge not to exceed the actual cost of the test may be made by FSI and shall be paid by Franchisee.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–223)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Fat Shack's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee wants to purchase products, services, supplies, or materials from a supplier not already approved by Fat Shack, the franchisee must submit a written request for a change of supplier before making any purchases from the new supplier.
Fat Shack is then required to notify the franchisee in writing whether the proposed supplier is approved or rejected. The maximum time Fat Shack can take to complete its investigation of the proposed supplier and provide this notification is 30 days.
Fat Shack retains the right to inspect the facilities and products of any manufacturer, supplier, or distributor to ensure they meet Fat Shack's standards for production, processing, storage, and transportation. Permission for this inspection is a condition of continued approval. Fat Shack also has the discretion to withhold approval for any reason. Before making a determination, Fat Shack may require samples from the proposed new supplier for testing, and the franchisee will be responsible for covering the costs of these tests.