Is a Gold Star franchisee allowed to install any unauthorized devices or software with the Communication and Information System?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
FRANCHISEE will lease and/or purchase its Communication and Information System only from such vendor or vendors or supplier that the COMPANY has approved in writing pursuant to the provisions of Section 7.2 above and will pay any licensing or other fees required by vendors or suppliers, including without limitation, the COMPANY if the COMPANY is the approved supplier therefor. FRANCHISEE will not install, or permit to be installed, any devices, software or other programs not approved by the COMPANY for use with the Communication and Information System.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–163)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are explicitly prohibited from installing any unauthorized devices or software within the Communication and Information System. The Communication and Information System includes the point-of-sale system, hardware, software, platforms for managing the business, reporting, sharing information, credit card backup systems, online ordering, training platforms, and communication systems.
The FDD states that franchisees must lease or purchase their Communication and Information System only from vendors approved in writing by Gold Star. Furthermore, franchisees are responsible for paying any licensing or other fees required by these approved vendors, which may include fees payable to Gold Star if they are the approved supplier. This ensures that all components of the system meet Gold Star's standards and are compatible with their overall technology infrastructure.
This restriction is in place to maintain the integrity and security of Gold Star's data and systems, as well as to ensure consistency across all franchise locations. Unauthorized installations could compromise the system's functionality, create security vulnerabilities, or disrupt the flow of information between the franchisee and Gold Star. Franchisees must adhere to this policy to remain in compliance with their franchise agreement.