Does Kidokinetics make its standards and specifications for supplier approval available to franchisees?
Kidokinetics Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Our approval process generally focuses on the supplier's dependability, general reputation and ability to provide sufficient quantity of product or services, and the products' or services' prices and quality. Our standards, specifications and other criteria for supplier or distributor approval have been developed by us, our principals and our affiliates through the expenditure of extensive work and time and are considered confidential information. We do not make our standards and specifications or our other criteria for supplier
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 22–24)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Kidokinetics's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, the company does not make its standards and specifications or other criteria for supplier or distributor approval available to franchisees or approved suppliers. These standards and specifications are considered confidential information, developed through extensive work and time by Kidokinetics, its principals, and affiliates.
Prospective Kidokinetics franchisees should understand that they will not have access to the specific criteria used to evaluate and approve suppliers. This means franchisees must rely on Kidokinetics's judgment in selecting approved suppliers and may not be able to suggest or evaluate alternative suppliers independently.
If a franchisee wishes to use a non-approved item or service, they must submit sufficient information, specifications, or samples to Kidokinetics for approval. The franchisee is responsible for reimbursing Kidokinetics for all reasonable expenses associated with this approval process. Kidokinetics will then decide, typically within 30 days, whether to approve the item, service, or supplier. However, Kidokinetics retains the right to withdraw approval later based on supplier performance, changes in specifications, standards, or other reasons.
This policy gives Kidokinetics significant control over the supply chain and ensures consistency across all franchise locations. While it limits the franchisee's autonomy in sourcing products and services, it also aims to maintain quality and protect the Kidokinetics brand. Franchisees should inquire about the typical costs associated with seeking supplier approval and the frequency with which supplier standards and specifications are updated.