Can Gold Star require attendance at refresher training programs?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
nitial crew of the Restaurant for such period as the COMPANY deems appropriate in its sole discretion. The initial crew must attend and successfully complete such program to the COMPANY's satisfaction prior to the opening of the Store. No fee shall be charged by the COMPANY for such program.
- 2.4 Additional Training. The COMPANY may at its option make available, or require attendance at, refresher or other additional training programs as it deems appropriate. No fee shall be charged by the COMPANY for any such training program at which attendance of FRANCHISEE or any other representative of FRANCHISEE designated by the COMPANY is mandatory. FRANCHISEE must pay the COMPANY for attendance of any optional attendee at any mandatory program and for attendance of any attendee at any optional training program made available by the COMPANY the standard fee then charged by the COMPANY to other Restaurant franchisees for such programs.
- 2.5 Expenses. It is understood that FRANCHISEE shall receive no compensation or reimbursement for any services performed or expenses incurred by FRANCHISEE or any employee or other representative of FRANCHISEE during any training program and FRANCHISEE shall be responsible for all travel, lodging, meals and other related or incidental expenses incurred by FRANCHISEE, and FRANCHISEE's employees and representatives, in connection with any such program.
- 2.6 Compliance.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–163)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Gold Star may require franchisees or their representatives to attend refresher or other additional training programs that it deems appropriate. If Gold Star mandates attendance, there is no fee for the franchisee or their designated representative.
However, if an optional attendee attends a mandatory program, or if anyone attends an optional training program, the franchisee must pay Gold Star the standard fee charged to other Restaurant franchisees for such programs. The franchisee is responsible for all travel, lodging, meals, and other related expenses incurred during any training program for themselves, their employees, and representatives.
Furthermore, Gold Star requires that if a franchisee seeks to renew their franchise agreement, the franchisee, manager, operator, or other key employee must satisfactorily complete any required initial or refresher training program. This condition ensures that franchisees and their staff remain up-to-date with Gold Star's standards and practices, contributing to the consistency and quality of the brand.
In summary, Gold Star retains the discretion to mandate refresher training, covering the cost of the training itself for required attendees, while the franchisee bears the responsibility for travel and related expenses. Satisfactory completion of refresher training programs may also be a condition for franchise renewal.