Is a Hardee's franchisee required to participate in programs to verify customer satisfaction?
Hardees Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Type of Fee (1) | Amount | Due Date | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Secret Shopper, and other Quality Assurance (QA) Programs | All costs associated with the Secret Shopper programs or other QA programs as HR may require | As incurred | You must participate in programs initiated to verify customer satisfaction and/or your compliance with all operational and other aspects of the System. Currently, there is no charge for an initial QA audit; the cost of a second audit due to a deficiency is currently $211 per Restaurant which may be increased every year, although we do not anticipate the annual increase to exceed 30%. |
Source: Item 6 — OTHER FEES (FDD pages 29–36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hardee's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must participate in programs initiated to verify customer satisfaction. These programs also assess the franchisee's compliance with operational and other aspects of the Hardee's system. These programs include Secret Shopper programs and other Quality Assurance (QA) programs as Hardee's may require.
The costs associated with these programs are borne by the franchisee as they are incurred. While there is no charge for an initial QA audit, a second audit due to a deficiency currently costs $211 per restaurant. This cost may increase annually, but Hardee's does not anticipate the annual increase to exceed 30%.
This requirement ensures that Hardee's maintains consistent quality and customer service across all franchise locations. By participating in these programs, franchisees can identify areas for improvement and ensure they are meeting Hardee's standards. The cost of these programs, while potentially increasing, is a necessary part of maintaining the brand's reputation and customer satisfaction.