Is there a fee charged by Gold Star for the initial crew training program?
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. Gold Star's initial crew training program as of December 31, 2024 is described in the following chart. The program is subject to modification by Gold Star.
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, Gold Star does not charge a fee for the initial crew training program. This program is conducted at the franchisee's restaurant before it opens to the public. The training typically lasts for 5 to 9 days, with 5 hours of training per day.
While Gold Star does not charge a fee for this initial crew training, the franchisee is responsible for all expenses incurred by the crew during the training. These expenses include travel, lodging, meals, and any other related or incidental costs. The initial crew must complete the training to Gold Star's satisfaction before the restaurant can open.
This arrangement is fairly typical in the franchise industry. Franchisors often provide the initial training program as part of their franchise support, but franchisees are expected to cover the costs associated with sending their employees to the training. This ensures that the crew is properly trained in Gold Star's operating procedures and standards before the restaurant begins serving customers.