What is the Gold Star franchisee's obligation regarding the maintenance of the required signage?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
f some other individual serves as Store Manager then a Principal must, on a weekly basis, be present and actively participate in the day-to-day, on-premises supervision and operation of the Store for at least ten percent (10%) of the operating hours of the Store or the Manager must be an owner of at least a ten percent (10%) interest in FRANCHISEE.
- 5.3 Signage. FRANCHISEE shall obtain, display and maintain, at FRANCHISEE's expense, a package of signs conforming to the COMPANY's requirements (except to the extent modified with the approval of the COMPANY due to local legal restrictions), at, on or near the front of the Retail Location, describing the premises only as "Gold Star Chili" and such other signs, if any, as the COMPANY may require in the Manual or otherwise in writing. FRANCHISEE shall not place on display at the Retail Location (interior or exterior) any sign other than those that have been and continue to be approved by the COMPANY for display by FRANCHISEE in the Manual or otherwise in writing.
- 5.4 Hours of Operation. FRANCHISEE shall keep the Store open for such days and hours as the COMPANY shall reasonably require; provided, however, that nothing herein shall prevent FRANCHISEE from closing the Store to the extent required by local laws.
- 5.5 Staffing, Inventory.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–163)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is responsible for obtaining, displaying, and maintaining the required signage package at their own expense. This package must conform to Gold Star's requirements, although modifications can be made with the company's approval to comply with local legal restrictions. The signage should describe the premises as "Gold Star Chili," along with any other signs the company specifies in the manual or in writing.
Gold Star franchisees are prohibited from displaying any signs, whether inside or outside the retail location, that have not been approved by Gold Star in the manual or in writing. This ensures brand consistency and adherence to the company's standards.
In addition to the specific signage requirements, franchisees are also obligated to maintain the signs in a clean and attractive condition, satisfactory to Gold Star. This falls under the general upkeep requirements for the store's interior and exterior, including furniture, fixtures, equipment, and the surrounding area. Franchisees must also repair and paint the interior and exterior of the retail location at reasonable times or upon Gold Star's request.