What training requirements must a Hardees franchisee and their employees meet to be eligible for renewal?

According to Hardees's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, to be eligible for renewal, a franchisee and their employees at the franchised restaurant must comply with Hardees' then-current training requirements. This means that franchisees need to ensure they and their staff stay up-to-date with any training programs or standards that Hardees has in place at the time of renewal.

Hardees provides a Franchise Management Training Program (FMTP) that the franchisee and certain designated employees must complete. This includes the General Manager, a minimum of 6 Shift Leaders, and potentially other employees in designated positions. The Operating Principal must also complete the FMTP if they haven't already. The FMTP includes training at a Hardees Restaurant and on Star University (StarU), Hardees' online Learning Management System.

Hardees also has the right to require franchisees, their owners, the Operating Principal, the General Manager, and other designated employees to take and successfully complete additional training courses. Franchisees are responsible for tuition fees and all travel and living expenses incurred by employees attending these training programs. If Hardees changes the training provider, the franchisee must enter into a replacement license agreement with the new provider.

Failure to comply with these training requirements could prevent a Hardees franchisee from being eligible for a renewal term. Therefore, it is crucial for prospective franchisees to understand the specific training obligations and budget for the associated costs to maintain compliance and secure future renewal options.