What must Fitstop franchisee's employees do during visits from Fitstop representatives?

According to Fitstop's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must ensure their employees cooperate fully with Fitstop representatives during visits to the franchised business operations. This requirement is part of Fitstop's broader rights to visit, inspect, observe, and report on the operation of the franchised business, which can occur with or without notice to the franchisee. These visits can happen at any time, with any frequency, and for any duration that Fitstop deems necessary.

For a prospective Fitstop franchisee, this means that their employees must be prepared to assist and provide information to Fitstop representatives during site visits. This cooperation likely includes answering questions, providing access to relevant areas of the premises, and ensuring that all operational aspects are transparent for review. The franchisee is responsible for ensuring their staff understands and complies with this requirement.

The FDD also states that the franchisee themselves must be present during such visits if Fitstop requests it with prior notice. The franchisee is expected to cooperate fully with Fitstop personnel during these visits, making available any requested information, reports, accounts, books, records, orders, receipts, statements, and access to the Franchise's computers and computer records. This level of access and cooperation underscores the importance Fitstop places on maintaining brand standards and operational consistency across all franchise locations.

Failure to ensure employee cooperation or to comply with Fitstop's requests during these visits could potentially lead to issues with the franchisor and may constitute a breach of the franchise agreement. Therefore, franchisees should establish clear expectations with their employees regarding these visits and ensure they are prepared to assist Fitstop representatives in a professional and cooperative manner.