Does Fat Shack reserve the right to designate or approve the supplier of architectural drawings?
Fat_Shack Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must, at your expense, ensure that the FAT SHACK Restaurant is constructed, converted, designed and decorated, including installing outdoor signage, in accordance with our plans and specifications, through the assistance of contractors, architects and suppliers designated or approved by us. See also Item 7 for a discussion of related fees. We reserve the right to designate or approve the supplier of architectural drawings. If you request a change to the architectural drawings provided, we must review and approve those changes.
Source: Item 8 — Restrictions on Sources of Products and Services (FDD pages 22–26)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Fat Shack's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Fat Shack does reserve the right to designate or approve the supplier of architectural drawings. The FDD states that franchisees must ensure the Fat Shack Restaurant is constructed, converted, designed, and decorated according to Fat Shack's plans and specifications, using contractors, architects, and suppliers designated or approved by them. If a franchisee requests changes to the architectural drawings, Fat Shack must review and approve those changes.
This means that a prospective Fat Shack franchisee cannot freely choose their own architect or supplier of architectural drawings. They must use someone that Fat Shack has already approved or seek approval for a supplier they wish to use. This ensures that all Fat Shack locations adhere to the brand's standards and specifications for design and construction.
This requirement is typical in franchising, as it allows the franchisor to maintain brand consistency and quality control across all locations. While it may limit a franchisee's options, it also provides assurance that the design and construction of their Fat Shack Restaurant will meet the franchisor's standards, potentially avoiding costly mistakes or delays. Franchisees should inquire about the list of approved suppliers and the process for getting a new supplier approved.