What is Fitstop's role in approving or disapproving a franchisee's request to purchase or offer non-approved products or services?

According to Fitstop's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Fitstop has the authority to either approve or disapprove a franchisee's requests regarding the purchase or offering of products and services that have not been previously approved. This also applies to requests to make required purchases from suppliers who are not currently on Fitstop's list of approved suppliers.

This means that as a Fitstop franchisee, you are not entirely free to choose which products or services you offer at your location. You must seek approval from Fitstop for any products or services that deviate from the standard offerings. Similarly, you are generally required to purchase from Fitstop's approved suppliers, and any exceptions to this rule also require Fitstop's approval.

This approval process is a standard practice in franchising, designed to maintain brand consistency and quality control across all locations. While it may limit a franchisee's autonomy, it also ensures that all Fitstop locations adhere to the brand's standards and offer products and services that have been vetted by the franchisor. Franchisees should factor in these restrictions and approval timelines when planning their business operations and product/service offerings.