Must a Gold Star franchisee's request for approval be in writing?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
WRITTEN APPROVALS.** Whenever this Agreement requires the COMPANY's prior approval or consent, FRANCHISEE shall make a timely written request therefor, and such approval may be granted or denied by the COMPANY in its discretion.
No approval shall be effective unless given in writing.
The COMPANY makes no warranties, representations, or guarantees upon which FRANCHISEE may rely, and assumes no liability or obligation to FRANCHISEE, by providing any waiver, approval, consent or suggestion to FRANCHISEE in connection with this Agreement, or by reason of any neglect, delay or denial of any request therefor.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–163)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, any request for approval from Gold Star must be submitted in writing by the franchisee. Furthermore, any approval given by Gold Star will only be considered valid if it is provided in writing.
This requirement ensures there is a clear record of all requests and approvals, which can help prevent misunderstandings or disputes between the franchisee and Gold Star. By mandating written requests, Gold Star aims to maintain a standardized and documented process for all franchisee interactions requiring franchisor consent.
This stipulation is fairly common in franchising, as it protects both parties by creating an official record. However, the FDD also states that Gold Star "makes no warranties, representations, or guarantees upon which FRANCHISEE may rely, and assumes no liability or obligation to FRANCHISEE, by providing any waiver, approval, consent or suggestion to FRANCHISEE in connection with this Agreement, or by reason of any neglect, delay or denial of any request therefor."
Therefore, while written requests are required, franchisees should be aware that Gold Star retains discretion in granting or denying approvals and assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from these decisions.