Under what condition is a HydroDog franchisee unable to request approval of a new supplier?
Hydrodog Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
If we require you to use an approved supplier for a particular item, but you wish to purchase the item from a supplier that we have not approved, you may submit a written request for approval of the supplier, unless it is an item for which we have designated a particular vendor as the source for the particular product or service.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 18–21)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hydrodog's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee cannot request approval of a new supplier if Hydrodog has already designated a particular vendor as the sole source for a specific product or service. This restriction is in place to protect Hydrodog's reputation, maintain high operational standards, and ensure consistency across the franchise system.
For a prospective Hydrodog franchisee, this means that while they generally have the option to suggest alternative suppliers, that option is removed if Hydrodog has determined a single, approved source for certain items. This could limit the franchisee's ability to negotiate better prices or source products locally. It also highlights the importance of understanding which items are subject to this exclusive sourcing requirement before signing the franchise agreement.
Hydrodog retains the right to inspect a proposed supplier's facilities and require product samples for testing, with the franchisee potentially bearing the costs of evaluation. The approval process can take up to 30 days after Hydrodog receives the request and completes any necessary evaluations. The franchisee cannot use the proposed supplier until written approval is granted. This process ensures that all suppliers meet Hydrodog's standards before being approved for use within the franchise system.