What is the Gokhale Method franchisee's obligation regarding the use of approved formats?
Gokhale_Method Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
8.2. Approved Formats. You agree to sell, offer for sale and deliver to students only the Gokhale System in Approved Formats and any related classes, services and products as have been expressly approved in writing by us and for which you have been qualified; to refrain from any deviation from our standards
and specifications without our prior written consent; and to discontinue selling and offering for sale any Gokhale Method branded class, service, product, merchandise, and equipment which we may, in our discretion, disapprove in writing at any time. The current schedule of Approved Formats and requirements for them is annexed as Exhibit B.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 34)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Gokhale Method's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are obligated to adhere strictly to approved formats for the Gokhale System. Specifically, franchisees must sell, offer, and deliver the Gokhale System only in formats that have been expressly approved in writing by Gokhale Method, and for which the franchisee has been properly qualified. These approved formats, along with their requirements, are detailed in Exhibit B of the Franchise Agreement.
This means a Gokhale Method franchisee cannot deviate from the standards and specifications set by the franchisor without obtaining prior written consent. Furthermore, Gokhale Method retains the right to disapprove any Gokhale Method branded class, service, product, merchandise, or equipment at any time, and the franchisee must immediately cease selling or offering such disapproved items. This ensures consistency and quality control across all Gokhale Method franchises.
For a prospective franchisee, this requirement underscores the importance of following the franchisor's established methods and guidelines. It also highlights the need to stay updated on any changes to approved formats or products, as Gokhale Method can modify these at its discretion. Failing to comply with these standards could lead to suspension of teaching rights or even termination of the Franchise Agreement, as mentioned in section 8.1 regarding operating standards.