Does the Hydrodog 'System' include standards and specifications?
Hydrodog Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| THIS | FRANCHISE | AGREEMENT | (the | "Agreement") | is | effective | as | of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (the "Effective | Date"). The parties to this Agreement are Legacy | |||||||
| Franchisors, LLC, a Maine | limited liability company, with its principal business address at | 8200 | ||||||
| Seminole Blvd., Seminole, FL 33772 (referred to in this Agreement as | "Franchisor," | "we," "us" or | ||||||
| "our"), and, a, with its principal office at | ||||||||
| (referred to in this Agreement as "Franchisee," "you," or "your"). |
1. INTRODUCTION.
1.1 The HydroDog System. We, our affiliates and our predecessor have expended considerable time and effort developing retail businesses offering, on a mobile basis, pet grooming services (the "Products" and/or the "Services"), in a distinctive and innovative environment (each a "HydroDog Business"). HydroDog Businesses utilize our approved vehicles (the "HydroDog Vehicles") and operate in accordance with our standards and specifications (our "System Standards"). A key to the development, operation, franchising and success of the HydroDog Businesses is the use of our System. The "System" includes, but is not limited to, distinctive designs, layouts, color schemes and signs, equipment, inventory, marketing methods, service requirements, standards and specifications, products, inventory, and suppliers; rules;
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 43–166)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hydrodog's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Hydrodog System does include standards and specifications. The FDD states that HydroDog Businesses operate in accordance with System Standards. These standards are part of the broader Hydrodog 'System,' which encompasses various elements such as distinctive designs, layouts, color schemes, signs, equipment, inventory, marketing methods, service requirements, standards and specifications, products, inventory, and suppliers; rules; training and assistance; and other methods and procedures relating to the establishment and operation of a HydroDog Business.
The System Standards are further detailed in Hydrodog's manuals, which contain mandatory and suggested specifications, standards, operating procedures, and rules. Franchisees are obligated to adhere to these standards, specifications, and operating procedures, as well as any updates or amendments communicated through newsletters or notices. Hydrodog retains the right to modify these System Standards periodically, potentially requiring franchisees to make additional capital investments or incur higher operating costs. However, Hydrodog must provide at least ninety (90) days' notice for Capital Modifications.
Compliance with System Standards is critical for Hydrodog franchisees. Failure to comply can result in non-compliance fees, mandatory remedial training at the franchisee's expense, suspension of rights under the franchise agreement, or even termination of the agreement. This underscores the importance of franchisees staying informed about any modifications to the System Standards and ensuring they meet the specified requirements within the given time frame. The standards also cover aspects like interior and exterior upkeep of the HydroDog Vehicle, hours of operation, and adherence to a designated Business Management System, including computer systems and purchase order systems.