If a Hardees franchisee wants to purchase goods from a non-approved supplier, what is the procedure for requesting approval?
Hardees Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
If Franchisee proposes to purchase any goods or materials (that Franchisee is not required to purchase from HR, an affiliate of HR or a designated supplier) from a supplier that HR has not previously approved, Franchisee shall submit to HR a written request for such approval, or shall request the supplier to do so itself. HR has the right to require, as a condition of its approval, that its representatives be permitted to inspect the supplier's facilities, and that such information, specifications and samples as HR reasonably designates be delivered to HR and/or to an independent, certified laboratory designated by HR for testing prior to granting approval. A charge not to exceed the reasonable cost of the inspection and the actual cost of the test shall be paid by Franchisee. HR reserves the right, at its option, to re-inspect the facilities and products of any such approved supplier and to revoke its approval upon the suppliers' failure to continue to meet any of the foregoing criteria.
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD page 85)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hardees's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee wants to purchase goods or materials from a supplier not already approved by Hardees, the franchisee must submit a written request for approval to Hardees. Alternatively, the franchisee can request that the supplier submit the approval request directly.
Hardees has the right to inspect the supplier's facilities as a condition of approval. They can also request information, specifications, and samples to be delivered to Hardees or an independent, certified laboratory for testing. The franchisee is responsible for covering the costs associated with the inspection and testing, up to the reasonable cost of the inspection and the actual cost of the test.
Hardees retains the right to re-inspect the facilities and products of any approved supplier and can revoke approval if the supplier fails to continue meeting Hardees' criteria. This ensures that all suppliers meet the brand's standards and specifications, maintaining the quality and consistency of Hardees products.