Under what condition is the Hardees franchisee's Operating Principal not required to devote full-time efforts to supervising the Franchised Restaurant?

According to Hardees's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Operating Principal of a Hardees franchise is generally required to devote full-time efforts to supervising the operation of the Franchised Restaurant and other Hardees restaurants operated by the franchisee in the same geographic market. This individual must also avoid engaging in any other business or activity that demands substantial management responsibility. However, this requirement is waived if Hardees has approved a Multi-Unit Manager for the franchisee.

This condition offers Hardees franchisees some flexibility in managing their business operations. If a franchisee has multiple units in the same area, they can appoint a Multi-Unit Manager to oversee the day-to-day activities of those restaurants, which would then free up the Operating Principal to focus on other business matters or investments. This can be particularly beneficial for franchisees looking to expand their operations or diversify their business interests.

It's important to note that the approval of a Multi-Unit Manager is at Hardees's discretion. The franchisee must formally request and receive approval from Hardees before the Operating Principal can reduce their full-time supervision responsibilities. This ensures that Hardees maintains control over the management and operational standards of its franchised restaurants, even when a Multi-Unit Manager is in place.