Is there a charge for the consultation and assistance Fly Fitness provides, and if so, under what circumstances?
Fly_Fitness Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Franchisor and/or its designated representative will provide the services described below:
- 10.1. Site Selection Guidelines. Site selection criteria, as Franchisor may deem advisable. Franchisor shall also approve the site in accordance with Section 8.1.2.
- 10.2. Construction. Provide to Franchisee criteria and specifications for a Fly Fitness. Such criteria and specifications include, but are not necessarily limited to, criteria with respect to design and layout of the Franchised Business location. Franchisee shall independently, and at Franchisee's expense, have such criteria and specifications incorporated into the construction of the Franchised Business in accordance with Article 8.
- 10.3. Manual. Provide Franchisee access to the Confidential Operations Manual and such other manuals and written materials as Franchisor may hereafter develop for use by franchisees, as the same may be revised by Franchisor from time to time. Such documents may be provided electronically or via the Internet, at Franchisor's sole and absolute discretion.
- 10.4. Inspection. Inspection of the Franchised Business and evaluations of the services rendered and products sold therein whenever reasonably determined by Franchisor.
- 10.5. Pre-Opening Requirements. Provide a written list of equipment, fixtures, furnishings, signage, supplies and products that will be required and/or recommended to open the Franchised Business for business.
- 10.6. Advertising Materials. In Franchisor's discretion, provide samples of certain advertising and promotional materials and information developed by Franchisor from time to time for use by Franchisee in marketing and conducting local advertising for the Franchised Business.
- 10.7. List of Suppliers. Make available from time to time, and amend as deemed appropriate by Franchisor, a list of approved and/or recommended suppliers of products and services for System franchisees and a list of approved and/or recommended suppliers of such items. Franchisee acknowledges that Franchisor or Franchisor's affiliate(s) may be the sole approved supplier(s) of certain products and services that Franchisee is required to purchase to operate the Franchised Business.
- 10.8. Training. The training programs specified in Article 7 herein.
- 10.9. On-Site Assistance. On-site assistance at the Franchised Business location in accordance with the provisions of Article 7.
- 10.10. Brand Fund. Administer a Brand Fund in accordance with Section 13.3.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 44–45)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
Based on the 2024 Fly Fitness Franchise Disclosure Document, it is not clear whether Fly Fitness charges a fee for consultation and assistance. While Item 10 outlines several obligations of the franchisor, including site selection guidelines, construction specifications, access to the operations manual, inspections, pre-opening requirements, advertising materials, lists of suppliers, training programs, on-site assistance, and administering a brand fund, it does not specify whether these services are provided at no additional cost or if separate fees apply.
Prospective franchisees should clarify with Fly Fitness's franchisor the specific costs associated with each of these services. Understanding whether these services are included in the initial franchise fee or are subject to additional charges is crucial for accurate financial planning. Franchisees should also inquire about the scope and frequency of on-site assistance and the criteria used for site selection and supplier recommendations.
Furthermore, franchisees should seek detailed information on any technology-related fees, as outlined in section 12.3.7, which mentions fees for computer hardware and software, installation, recurring software fees, internet access, help desk fees, and licensing. Clarifying these potential costs upfront will help franchisees avoid unexpected expenses and ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of the financial obligations involved in operating a Fly Fitness franchise.