Can the Gold Star company require modernization and renovations to the retail location as a condition of renewal?

According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, maintaining the retail location to Gold Star's standards, including potential modernizations and renovations, is a condition for franchise renewal. Specifically, to renew the franchise agreement, the franchisee must comply with the standards in Gold Star's Manual and have completed any required modernizations and renovations to the retail location, including updates to signs, furnishings, interior and exterior decor, fixtures, equipment, and structural changes, to meet Gold Star's standards at the time of renewal.

This requirement ensures that all Gold Star locations maintain a consistent brand image and meet current customer expectations. Failing to comply with these standards can result in the denial of the renewal. The franchisee is also expected to complete any required initial or refresher training programs for themselves, their managers, operators, or other key employees.

In addition to meeting modernization and renovation standards, the franchisee must also meet other conditions for renewal, such as satisfying all monetary obligations to Gold Star and its affiliates, not being in default of any agreement terms, and executing Gold Star's then-current form of franchise agreement. The new franchise agreement may have materially different terms, including higher fees and different renewal rights. The franchisee must also deliver the then-current renewal fee to Gold Star.