If I do not currently operate a Hardees Restaurant, what obligation does my Operating Principal have regarding new restaurant openings before my Franchised Restaurant opens?

According to Hardees's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if you do not currently operate a franchised Hardee's Restaurant, or haven't opened a new one in the past two years, your Operating Principal has a specific obligation. They must attend another franchisee's or a company-owned new Hardee's restaurant opening. This attendance must occur no more than 12 months before your own franchised restaurant is scheduled to open.

This requirement ensures that your Operating Principal is up-to-date with the latest Hardee's operational standards and practices. By observing a new restaurant opening, they can gain practical insights into efficient workflows, customer service expectations, and overall management techniques that are crucial for a successful launch. This hands-on experience can help them better prepare for the opening of your own Hardee's franchise.

This requirement is in place to ensure that the Operating Principal is fully prepared and knowledgeable about the current Hardee's system before launching a new franchise. It serves as a practical training exercise, supplementing any formal training programs and providing real-world exposure to the latest operational standards. This ultimately benefits the franchisee by equipping their Operating Principal with the necessary skills and insights to manage the restaurant effectively from day one.