For Hardees restaurants, what must franchisees purchase from HR-approved suppliers?
Hardees Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee agrees that the Franchised Restaurant will: (1) purchase those food
products developed by HR pursuant to a special recipe or formula only from HR, an affiliate of HR or a third party designated and licensed by HR to prepare and sell such products; and (2) purchase from manufacturers, distributors, vendors and suppliers (collectively "suppliers") approved by HR all other goods, food products, ingredients, spices, seasonings, mixes, beverages, materials, supplies and cleaning products used in the preparation of products and cleanliness of the Franchised Restaurant (collectively "goods"), as well as advertising materials, furniture, fixtures, equipment, smallwares, menus, forms, paper and plastic products, packaging or other materials (collectively "materials") that meet the standards and specifications promulgated by HR from time to time. HR has the right to require that Franchisee use only certain brands and to prohibit Franchisee from using other brands. HR may from time to time modify the list of approved brands and/or suppliers, and Franchisee shall not, after receipt of such modification in writing, reorder any brand from any supplier that is no longer approved.
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD page 85)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hardees' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must purchase specific items from Hardees-approved suppliers to maintain brand standards and quality. This includes food products developed by Hardees using special recipes or formulas, which must be purchased exclusively from Hardees, its affiliates, or licensed third parties. Additionally, franchisees are required to buy all other goods, food products, ingredients, spices, seasonings, mixes, beverages, materials, supplies, and cleaning products from Hardees-approved suppliers.
This requirement extends beyond just food-related items. Hardees franchisees must also source advertising materials, furniture, fixtures, equipment, smallwares, menus, forms, paper and plastic products, packaging, and other materials from approved suppliers. Hardees retains the right to specify certain brands and prohibit others, and it may modify the list of approved brands and suppliers periodically. Franchisees are obligated to comply with these changes and discontinue ordering from suppliers that are no longer approved.
This system ensures uniformity and quality across all Hardees locations, protecting the brand's reputation. While it limits a franchisee's choice of suppliers, it also provides access to suppliers that meet Hardees' standards. Prospective franchisees should be aware that they cannot freely choose suppliers and must adhere to Hardees' approved list, which may change over time. It is important to regularly check for updates to the approved supplier list to ensure compliance.