Under the Jersey Mikes franchise agreement, what constitutes an 'Affiliate'?
Jersey_Mikes Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ll conform to the specifications and quality standards established by Franchisor from time to time. Franchisee may purchase such products which meet Franchisor's specifications and quality standards from Franchisor and its Affiliates if they offer such products, or fr om suppliers approved by Franchisor as meeting its criteria for JERSEY MIKE'S suppliers. If Franchisee proposes to offer for sale at the Franchised Restaurant any brand of product, or to use in the operation of the Franchised Restaurant any brand of food ingredient or other material or supply, which is not then approved by Franchisor as meeting its minimum specifications and quality standards, or to purchase any product from a supplier that is not then designated by Franchisor as an approved supplier, Franchisee shall first notify Franchisor and shall upon request by Franchisor submit samples and such other information as Franchisor requires for examination and/or testing or to otherwise determine whether such product, material or supply, or such proposed supplier, meets its specifications and quality standards.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 77)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
I am unable to provide a definition of 'Affiliate' under the Jersey Mike's franchise agreement, according to the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document. While the term 'Affiliates' is mentioned in several contexts within the document, a specific definition is not provided in the excerpts.
For example, the FDD mentions that franchisees may purchase products from Jersey Mike's and its affiliates, or that transfer of franchise agreements requires compliance with obligations to Jersey Mike's and its affiliates. These references suggest that 'Affiliates' are related entities, but the exact nature of that relationship is not spelled out.
A prospective franchisee should ask Jersey Mike's for the precise definition of 'Affiliate' as it pertains to the franchise agreement. Understanding this term is crucial for determining the scope of obligations, potential suppliers, and any restrictions related to dealings with affiliated entities.