What is the definition of 'Designated Manager' or 'General Manager' for a Fitstop franchise?
Fitstop Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Any individual that you determine to engage and appoint as the individual that will handle the day-to-day operations and management of your Franchised Business (which we refer to as a Designated Manager or General Manager in this Disclosure Document) must participate in and complete all components of the initial training program that we designate, and we may require that you ensure at least two (2) such individuals (including you or, if Franchisee is a business entity, the Franchise Operator) complete all Initial Training Program components prior to opening your initial Franchised Business.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 24–35)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Fitstop's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, a Designated Manager or General Manager is defined as an individual appointed by the franchisee to handle the day-to-day operations and management of the franchised business.
For a prospective Fitstop franchisee, this means that if they choose not to manage the business themselves, they must appoint someone to do so. This individual is not just an employee but holds a significant role in overseeing the business's daily activities.
The FDD emphasizes that any Designated Manager or General Manager must complete Fitstop's initial training program. In fact, Fitstop may require that at least two individuals, including the franchisee or the Franchise Operator (if the franchisee is a business entity), complete the training before the franchise opens. This requirement ensures that those in charge are well-versed in Fitstop's operational standards and procedures.
This stipulation highlights the importance Fitstop places on having qualified individuals manage each franchise location. It also means that franchisees need to factor in the time and potential costs associated with training a manager or multiple managers before launching their Fitstop business.