Can a Gold Star franchisee use furniture not approved by Gold Star?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 5.10 Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment.
FRANCHISEE shall at its expense purchase, install and use any furniture, fixtures, leasehold improvements, equipment, supplies, uniforms and signs required by the COMPANY and may purchase, install or use only such furniture, fixtures, leasehold improvements, equipment, supplies, uniforms and signs as are approved by the COMPANY in the Manual or otherwise in writing.
FRANCHISEE also must obtain the COMPANY's prior written approval for the alteration or replacement of any such items.
These conditions are required to ensure that such items meet the System Standards.
Such items and the suppliers thereof must satisfy the conditions applicable to approval under Section 7, below.
- 5.11 Upkeep of Store.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–163)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Gold Star Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must purchase, install, and use furniture approved by Gold Star. Franchisees must get written approval from Gold Star for any furniture, fixtures, leasehold improvements, equipment, supplies, uniforms, and signs. This includes alterations or replacements of these items.
These conditions are in place to ensure that all items meet Gold Star's System Standards. The suppliers of these items must also satisfy the conditions applicable to approval. Gold Star will provide a list of approved sources for furniture, among other items necessary for the store's operation.
This requirement ensures uniformity across all Gold Star locations, maintaining the brand's image and operational standards. A prospective franchisee should carefully review the approved vendor list and understand the process for requesting approval of alternative furniture options, should they exist. Maintaining the interior and exterior of the store, including the furniture, fixtures, and equipment, in a condition satisfactory to Gold Star is also the franchisee's responsibility.