Is a Focus Cfo franchisee prohibited from employing anyone from the 'Focus CFO Consolidated Group'?

According to the 2025 Focus Cfo Franchise Disclosure Document, Focus Cfo franchisees are restricted from employing or engaging certain individuals associated with the Focus CFO Consolidated Group during the term of the agreement and for two years after its expiration or termination. The Focus CFO Consolidated Group includes Focus CFO and its affiliates. Specifically, franchisees are prohibited from employing or engaging as an employee, independent contractor, or otherwise, any member, employee, independent contractor, franchisee, licensee, officer, director, or agent of the Focus CFO Consolidated Group. This restriction applies unless Focus CFO provides written authorization to the franchisee.

This non-solicitation clause prevents Focus Cfo franchisees from poaching personnel from the Focus CFO network. This is a fairly standard practice in franchising to protect the franchisor's investment in training and development, and to maintain stability within the franchise system. It ensures that franchisees do not disrupt the operations of Focus CFO or other franchisees by hiring away their staff.

For a prospective Focus Cfo franchisee, this means that they must avoid recruiting or hiring anyone currently or recently (within the past two years after their term) associated with Focus CFO or its affiliates. Doing so without written permission from Focus CFO could be a breach of the franchise agreement, potentially leading to penalties or termination of the agreement. Franchisees should ensure they have a clear understanding of who constitutes the "Focus CFO Consolidated Group" to avoid any unintentional violations of this clause.