How long is the initial crew training program that Gold Star requires?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Gold Star also requires your initial crew to participate in a 5 to 7 (5-9 days) 5 hours/day training program conducted at your Restaurant before you open it to the general public. This training usually is provided during the week before the scheduled opening of your Restaurant. The initial crew must complete the training to Gold Star's satisfaction before your Restaurant opens. Gold Star does not charge you for this training program for the initial crew; however, you do not receive any compensation or reimbursement for any services performed or expenses incurred by you or any of your crew, employees or other representatives during the initial crew training program and you are responsible for all travel, lodging, meal and other related or incidental expenses incurred by them during or regarding the initial crew training program.
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 26–36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the initial crew training program is 5 to 7 days, with 5 hours of training per day, which may also be expressed as 5 to 9 days. This training takes place at the franchisee's restaurant before its opening to the public, usually during the week before the scheduled opening.
Gold Star does not charge franchisees for the initial crew training program. However, the franchisee is responsible for all expenses incurred by themselves and their crew during the training, including travel, lodging, and meals. The initial crew must complete the training program to Gold Star's satisfaction before the restaurant can open.
In addition to the initial crew training, Gold Star also provides initial training programs for new restaurant franchisees and their key managers. This training is scheduled periodically, depending on the number of prospective franchisees and scheduled restaurant openings. All mandatory trainees must attend and complete the program to Gold Star's satisfaction at least 3 weeks before the restaurant opens, or within 6 months of signing the Franchise Agreement.