For a franchisee opening their first Jersey Mikes restaurant, what additional grand opening participation is required?
Jersey_Mikes Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
If Franchisee is opening its first Franchised Restaurant, the training requirements are as follows: (1) three individuals (Trainees 1, 2, and 3) must complete Phase 1, (2) Trainee 1 must complete Phase 2, and (3) two individuals (Trainees 1 and 2) must complete Phase 3.
Additionally, Trainee 1 and 2 must attend and participate in the grand opening of anothe r JERSEY MIKE'S Restaurant, to be selected by Fra nchisor and F ranchisee's Area Director, prior to the opening of the Franchised Restaurant.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 77)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Jersey Mike's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee is opening their first Jersey Mike's restaurant, two individuals (Trainee 1 and Trainee 2) must attend and participate in the grand opening of another Jersey Mike's restaurant. The specific restaurant will be selected by Jersey Mike's Franchisor and the franchisee's Area Director.
This requirement ensures that new franchisees gain practical, hands-on experience in a real-world setting before launching their own location. By participating in another restaurant's grand opening, the franchisee and their assistant manager can observe and learn best practices for managing customer flow, preparing food, and handling the overall demands of a grand opening event. This experience can be invaluable in preparing them for the challenges and opportunities they will face when opening their own Jersey Mike's restaurant.
The FDD specifies that the franchisee's Controlling Principal or designated manager (Trainee 1) and assistant manager (Trainee 2) are the individuals required to participate. This highlights the importance of having key leadership personnel actively involved in the learning process. The selection of the grand opening location by both the franchisor and the area director suggests a strategic approach to providing the most relevant and beneficial experience for the new franchisee.
It is important for prospective franchisees to factor in the time and travel costs associated with this grand opening participation requirement. While the FDD does not specify the duration of the participation, franchisees should discuss this with the franchisor and area director to plan accordingly. This requirement is in addition to the initial training program, which consists of three phases that certain trainees must complete.