What is the minimum number of pre-opening training hours per employee at a Gold Star franchise?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Minimum of 35 hours of pre-opening training per employee
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 the 2025 Gold Star Franchise Disclosure Document, each employee must complete a minimum of 35 hours of pre-opening training. This initial training is designed to equip new staff with the foundational skills and knowledge necessary for their roles.
Gold Star also requires the initial crew to participate in a 5 to 9 day training program, 5 hours per day, at the franchisee's restaurant before opening to the public. This on-site training is typically scheduled during the week leading up to the restaurant's opening. The initial crew must complete this training to Gold Star's satisfaction before the restaurant can open.
While Gold Star does not charge franchisees for the initial crew training program, franchisees are responsible for all expenses incurred by themselves and their crew during the training, including travel, lodging, and meals. This pre-opening training is essential to ensure that the staff is well-prepared and meets Gold Star's standards before the restaurant begins operations.