If Fitstop modifies the standards and specifications for equipment, supplies, or furnishings, how long does a franchisee have to implement these changes?
Fitstop Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
rds and specifications; and (ii) such Required Items from the Approved Supplier, if any, we designate in our Manuals or otherwise in writing.
- 12.2 Ongoing Obligations. To ensure you may service members, you must purchase and maintain in accordance with the specifications set forth in the Manual(s)s such additional supplies and equipment necessary. We may make changes in these standards and specifications. The changes may require you to purchase equipment, supplies, furnishings or other products. You must promptly use the modified standards and specifications at your own expense and as specified in this Agreement within 180 days of the date we provide notice of a formal roll-out with respect to all similarly-situated System franchisees.
- 12.3 Right to Designate and Update List of Approved Supplier(s). We may, but are under no obligation, appoint oursevles and/or our affiliates or any other third party as an Apporved Supplier for one (1) or more Required Items associated with the Franchised Business upon prior written notice via the Manuals or otherwise.
12.4 Approved Services and Approved Products
12.4.1 Approved Products.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 50–135)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Fitstop's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Fitstop may change the standards and specifications, potentially requiring franchisees to purchase new equipment, supplies, furnishings, or other products. Franchisees must adopt these modified standards and specifications at their own expense within 180 days of receiving notice of a formal roll-out, provided that all similarly-situated Fitstop franchisees also receive the notice.
This requirement ensures that all Fitstop locations maintain a consistent brand image and service quality. However, it also means that franchisees must be prepared to invest in updates and changes as directed by Fitstop. The cost of these changes will be borne by the franchisee.
Furthermore, Fitstop may also change any brand standard to require an upgrade of the premises, furniture, fixtures, equipment, and/or any other required item used to initially build out and equip the franchised business. Franchisees are required to perform these upgrades at their cost within 180 calendar days of when Fitstop provides notification of such upgrades via the manuals or otherwise in writing to similarly-situated system franchisees. This ensures that Fitstop can maintain and evolve its brand standards across all locations, but it also places a financial responsibility on the franchisee to keep their location up-to-date.