What is the Operation Procedures Manual (OPM) for Hardees?
Hardees Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
initial period.
(10) You should review these figures carefully with a business advisor before making any decision to purchase the franchise. We do not offer any direct financing for any part of the initial investment.
ITEM 8
RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
Where we have issued standards and specifications, you must use only ingredients, food products, spices, seasonings, mixes, beverages, materials, supplies used in the preparation of food products, furniture, fixtures, equipment, smallwares, forms, paper and plastic products and packaging, cleaning supplies, and other materials that meet those standards and specifications. Our standards and specifications are contained in the Operation Procedures Manual ("OPM"). Periodically, we will provide you a list of approved suppliers. Most food items and other goods that you are required to purchase will be purchased from a master distributor. The master distributor will carry items such as meats, cheese, grocery, bread products, paper and cleaning supplies. As of the date of this disclosure document, our master distributor is McLane Company, Inc. We reserve the right to change the master distributors.
Source: Item 8 — Restrictions on Sources of Products and Services (FDD pages 39–42)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hardees's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Operation Procedures Manual (OPM) contains the standards and specifications that franchisees must adhere to regarding ingredients, food products, materials, supplies, furniture, fixtures, equipment, forms, paper and plastic products, packaging, and cleaning supplies. These standards ensure consistency and quality across all Hardees restaurants.
The OPM also specifies the data processing equipment, computer hardware, telephone and power lines, internet connections, modems, printers, software, and other computer-related equipment that franchisees must obtain and install. Hardees periodically updates these technology requirements, and franchisees are obligated to comply with the latest specifications outlined in the OPM or in writing.
Furthermore, the OPM may contain details about insurance coverage requirements for Hardees restaurants. Franchisees are required to maintain insurance policies of the kinds and amounts specified by Hardees, and all insurance policies must comply with the standards, specifications, coverages, and limits set forth in the OPM or otherwise provided in writing.