Can Fitstop designate specific brands or models for the computer hardware in the future?
Fitstop Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
We require that all System franchisees acquire and only use the Required Software, including the POS cloud-based software associated with our Current Billing/POS Provider, in connection with all sales, client record management and/or other business records in connection with the Franchised Business operations. We do not have specific brand or model requirements for the type of laptop or other computer you must acquire and dedicate to the operation of your Franchised Business only, but we may designate the same in the future via the Manuals. The computer hardware must be capable of running all Required Software and,
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, Fitstop does not currently have specific brand or model requirements for the computer hardware a franchisee must acquire. However, Fitstop retains the right to designate specific computer hardware brands or models in the future through updates to its Manuals.
This means that while franchisees currently have some flexibility in choosing computer hardware, Fitstop could later mandate specific brands or models. The computer hardware must be capable of running all Required Software. This change could require franchisees to purchase new hardware to comply with Fitstop's updated requirements.
Fitstop estimates that the initial pre-opening costs for the required computer hardware components range from $3,000 to $7,000. Additionally, franchisees may spend between $500 and $1,500 annually on updates and maintenance to the Computer System hardware, including non-material upgrades. Franchisees should factor in the potential cost of future hardware upgrades or replacements if Fitstop decides to designate specific brands or models.