Is the Development Fee for a Goldfish Swim School Area Development Agreement refundable?

According to Goldfish Swim School's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Development Fee for an Area Development Agreement is non-refundable. The Development Fee is calculated based on the number of Goldfish Swim School locations the developer agrees to open within a specific territory and timeframe, as outlined in the Development Schedule.

The Development Fee is equal to $50,000 for the first Goldfish Swim School, plus $20,000 for each additional location to be developed under the Area Development Agreement. This fee is paid in a lump sum upon signing the Area Development Agreement. The remaining portion of the initial franchise fee for each subsequent swim school ($20,000) is due when the franchisee signs each subsequent Franchise Agreement.

This non-refundable policy means that a prospective Goldfish Swim School area developer should carefully consider their ability to meet the development schedule and financial obligations before entering into the agreement. Unlike some franchise systems that may offer refunds of initial fees under specific conditions, Goldfish Swim School retains the entire Development Fee regardless of circumstances.