Does Gold Star charge a fee for mandatory refresher training programs?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 2.4 Additional Training. The COMPANY may at its option make available, or require attendance at, refresher or other additional training programs as it deems appropriate. No fee shall be charged by the COMPANY for any such training program at which attendance of FRANCHISEE or any other representative of FRANCHISEE designated by the COMPANY is mandatory. FRANCHISEE must pay the COMPANY for attendance of any optional attendee at any mandatory program and for attendance of any attendee at any optional training program made available by the COMPANY the standard fee then charged by the COMPANY to other Restaurant franchisees for such programs.
- 2.5 Expenses. It is understood that FRANCHISEE shall receive no compensation or reimbursement for any services performed or expenses incurred by FRANCHISEE or any employee or other representative of FRANCHISEE during any training program and FRANCHISEE shall be responsible for all travel, lodging, meals and other related or incidental expenses incurred by FRANCHISEE, and FRANCHISEE's employees and representatives, in connection with any such program.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–163)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Gold Star does not charge a fee for mandatory refresher or additional training programs. If attendance at any training program is mandatory for the franchisee or a designated representative, there is no fee. However, if a franchisee chooses to send additional attendees to a mandatory program or sends anyone to an optional training program, Gold Star will charge the standard fee that it charges other Restaurant franchisees for such programs. Franchisees are responsible for all travel, lodging, meals, and other related expenses incurred while attending any training program.
This policy on training fees is beneficial for franchisees because it reduces the costs associated with maintaining up-to-date knowledge and skills. By not charging for mandatory training, Gold Star ensures that franchisees can stay compliant with the System Standards without incurring additional financial burdens. This can be particularly helpful for franchisees who need to train multiple employees or managers.
However, franchisees should be aware that they are responsible for all travel and lodging expenses associated with attending training programs. Franchisees should also be aware that they will be charged a standard fee for optional attendees at mandatory programs or for any attendee at optional training programs. Franchisees should budget accordingly for these potential costs.