Is an Itan franchisee allowed to deviate from the approved menu system?
Itan Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We must approve all goods and services you sell. You must offer all goods and services we require. You may not sell any goods or services we have disapproved. You must strictly abide by our approved menu and menus system. You must present the menu offerings in the manner we designate. At any time, we may change the goods and services you sell and you must comply with the change. We may require you to participate in a gift card or other customer loyalty program (including utilization of a "membership" model) in accordance with our policies and procedures.
Source: Item 16 — RESTRICTIONS ON WHAT THE FRANCHISEE MAY SELL (FDD page 36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Itan's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to strictly adhere to the franchisor's approved menu and menu system. This means an Itan franchisee must offer goods and services that Itan approves, and they cannot sell any goods or services that Itan has disapproved. Furthermore, the franchisee must present the menu offerings in the manner that Itan designates.
This restriction ensures consistency across all Itan locations, maintaining brand uniformity and customer expectations. It also allows Itan to control the quality and types of products and services offered under its brand name. This is a fairly standard practice in franchising, where brand consistency is a key element of the business model.
It is important to note that Itan retains the right to change the goods and services offered at any time, and franchisees are obligated to comply with these changes. Franchisees should be prepared to adapt their offerings as directed by Itan to remain in compliance with the franchise agreement. This flexibility allows Itan to respond to market trends and customer preferences, but it also places the responsibility on the franchisee to implement these changes effectively.