Who is required to attend the initial training program for a Gold Star franchise?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
2.1 Number of Trainees. The following persons must attend and successfully complete to the COMPANY's satisfaction the COMPANY's initial training program prior to the earlier of the opening of the Restaurant or the expiration of six (6) months from the date of this Agreement, and any such additional training programs as the COMPANY may from time to time require, including, without limitation, refresher training, workshops for new Products and other programs (each such person, a "Trainee"): (a) if the FRANCHISEE is an individual, either the FRANCHISEE or two (2) persons who are designated as Managers or (b) if the FRANCHISEE is a corporation or limited liability company, either a person who has an interest in FRANCHISEE (each, a "Principal," and collectively, the "Principals") or two (2) persons who are designated as Managers. In the event that a Principal Trainee ceases to own equity in FRANCHISEE or a Manager Trainee ceases to be employed by FRANCHISEE, FRANCHISEE shall, at the COMPANY's option, cause another Principal Trainee or Manager Trainee to
attend and successfully complete the COMPANY's initial training program, such that at all times FRANCHISEE shall comply with the Trainee requirements set forth in this Section 2.1. Any such initial training for replacements Trainees shall be at FRANCHISEE's expense pursuant to Section 2.2 below.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–163)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, specific individuals are required to attend and successfully complete the company's initial training program. This training must be completed before the restaurant opens or within six months of the franchise agreement date, whichever comes first. The purpose of this training is to ensure that franchisees and their staff are well-versed in Gold Star's operational standards and procedures.
If the franchisee is an individual, either the franchisee or two designated managers must attend the training. If the franchisee is a corporation or limited liability company, either a principal (someone with an interest in the franchisee) or two designated managers must complete the training program. Gold Star may also require additional training programs, such as refresher courses or workshops for new products, from time to time.
If a principal trainee no longer owns equity in the franchise or a manager trainee is no longer employed, Gold Star has the option to require another principal or manager to attend the initial training program. The franchisee is responsible for ensuring compliance with these training requirements at all times. This ensures that someone in a leadership position is always up-to-date on Gold Star's standards.
It is important to note that the franchisee is responsible for all expenses associated with training, including travel, lodging, and meals for themselves and their employees. However, Gold Star will provide initial training for one additional person designated as a manager without charging a fee. This comprehensive training program is designed to maintain uniform operating standards and protect the goodwill of the Gold Star brand.