Can the Gold Star brand building fee be increased?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 8.1.8 A continuing brand building fee, based on Gross Sales, in the amount of the Percentage Brand Building Fee set forth on the cover page hereof (the "Brand Building Fee"), subject to increase or decrease by the COMPANY in its sole discretion (but not to exceed, in any calendar year, seven percent (7%) of FRANCHISEE's Gross Sales for such year without the written consent of FRANCHISEE).
The Brand Building Fee will not be increased by more than 1% in any 12-month period.
All Brand Building Fees are nonrefundable.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–163)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Brand Building Fee can be increased at the company's discretion. However, there are limitations to how much and how often the fee can be raised.
The Brand Building Fee is based on Gross Sales and is subject to increase or decrease by Gold Star. The increase is limited to a maximum of seven percent of the franchisee's Gross Sales in any calendar year, unless the franchisee provides written consent for a higher amount.
Furthermore, Gold Star will not increase the Brand Building Fee by more than 1% in any 12-month period. This provides some predictability for franchisees in managing their expenses. All Brand Building Fees are nonrefundable, and are typically payable weekly via preauthorized debit.