Is approval from Lees Famous Recipe required before undertaking repairs or remodeling?
Lees_Famous_Recipe Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
plicable); (2) as a condition to the transfer of any interest as further described in Section 14(C); (3) as a condition of renewal; and (4) otherwise during the term of the Agreement as further described in the Operations Manual. You acknowledge and agree that the requirements of this Section 9(A) are both reasonable and necessary to ensure continued public acceptance and patronage of Lee's Famous Recipe Restaurants and to avoid deterioration or obsolescence in connection with the operation of the Restaurant. You further agree that, prior to any commencement of such repair or remodeling, you will submit to us proposed plans prepared by a licensed architect, at your expense, that comply with applicable laws, ordinances, building codes, permit requirements, lease requirements and restrictions, including proof of any variances required by building and zoning codes.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 69–70)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Lees Famous Recipe's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must obtain written approval from Lees Famous Recipe before undertaking any repairs or remodeling of the restaurant. Specifically, prior to commencing any repair or remodeling work, franchisees must submit proposed plans prepared by a licensed architect, at their own expense. These plans must comply with all applicable laws, ordinances, building codes, permit requirements, lease requirements, and restrictions, including proof of any required variances.
This requirement ensures that all Lees Famous Recipe restaurants maintain a consistent brand image and meet the franchisor's standards. The franchisor's approval process allows them to review the proposed plans and ensure that the repairs or remodeling align with the brand's current specifications and standards. This helps to maintain the overall quality and appearance of the Lees Famous Recipe franchise system.
Furthermore, franchisees cannot alter the premises or appearance of the restaurant, or make any unapproved replacements or alterations to fixtures, equipment, furniture, or signs without prior written approval from Lees Famous Recipe. The franchisor retains the right to correct any unapproved alterations at the franchisee's expense. This provision reinforces the franchisor's control over the restaurant's image and ensures uniformity across all franchise locations.
These stipulations are typical in franchise agreements, as franchisors seek to protect their brand identity and maintain consistent customer experiences across all locations. Franchisees should carefully consider these requirements and factor in the time and potential costs associated with obtaining franchisor approval for any planned repairs or remodeling.