Before opening a Goldfish Swim School, must the Designated Manager attend and complete initial training?
Goldfish_Swim_School Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The Designated Manager must attend and satisfactorily complete our initial training program before opening the Franchised Swim School. You must keep us informed at all times of the identity of your Designated Manager and on-site general manager if different from the Designated Manager. If you must replace the Designated Manager or on-site general manager, your replacement must attend and satisfactorily complete our initial training program.
Source: Item 15 — OBLIGATION TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ACTUAL OPERATION OF THE FRANCHISE BUSINESS (FDD page 53)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Goldfish Swim School's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Designated Manager must attend and satisfactorily complete the initial training program before the franchised swim school opens. If the Designated Manager is replaced, the replacement must also attend and satisfactorily complete the initial training program.
The initial training program is designed to protect Goldfish Swim School's brand and covers the material aspects of the operation. The Designated Manager, along with the Control Person or another owner designated by Goldfish Swim School, and at least one other required manager, must attend the training at least 60 days before the swim school opens. The Marketing Lead must attend Week 2 of the Training Program.
The initial training program is offered on an as-needed basis, partly via a virtual platform and partly in person at Goldfish Swim School's headquarters in Troy, Michigan, or other designated locations. Goldfish Swim School does not charge tuition for the initial training, but the franchisee is responsible for all travel costs and living expenses for themselves and their attendees. After a replacement of the Designated Manager or on-site general manager if different from the Designated Manager, he or she has 60 days to complete initial training.