Must a Moes Southwest Grill franchisee obtain written approval before installing any supplies?
Moes_Southwest_Grill Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must purchase and install, at your expense, all fixtures, furnishings, equipment (including a Computer System), décor and signs, as we direct. If we modify our menu, we may require you to purchase additional equipment to prepare and store new menu items. You may not install on or about your Restaurant any merchandise, furnishings, interior or exterior décor items, supplies, fixtures, equipment or utensils unless they have been approved by us in writing. You must purchase these items only from an Approved Supplier, unless we specify otherwise.
Source: Item 8 — Restrictions on Sources of Products and Services (FDD pages 47–51)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Moes Southwest Grill Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must obtain written approval from Moes Southwest Grill before installing any merchandise, furnishings, interior or exterior décor items, supplies, fixtures, equipment, or utensils in their restaurant. These items must be purchased from an approved supplier unless Moes Southwest Grill specifies otherwise. This requirement ensures that all elements within the restaurant align with the brand's standards and image.
This approval process extends to products or goods not already approved. Franchisees must submit a written request for approval, providing any requested information. Moes Southwest Grill has the right to inspect the supplier's facilities and test samples of the proposed goods, with the franchisee bearing the costs of inspection and testing, regardless of whether approval is granted. The decision to approve or deny a supplier or goods rests solely on Moes Southwest Grill's judgment, and they will provide written notification of their decision. Failure to receive approval within 90 days after submitting all required information is deemed a disapproval.
Moes Southwest Grill also has the right to re-inspect the facilities and goods of any approved supplier and revoke approval if they fail to meet current criteria. If approval is revoked, franchisees must stop purchasing or leasing the goods from the supplier and dispose of any remaining inventory as directed by Moes Southwest Grill. Franchisees can continue selling a formerly approved product from existing inventory for up to 30 days following disapproval, but Moes Southwest Grill can shorten this period if continued sale would harm their reputation. After the designated period, the remaining inventory must be disposed of as directed.
These stipulations are typical in franchising, as they allow Moes Southwest Grill to maintain quality control and brand consistency across all locations. Franchisees should be aware of these requirements and factor in the time and potential costs associated with seeking approval for new suppliers or goods. Maintaining compliance with these standards is essential for preserving the integrity of the Moes Southwest Grill brand and ensuring a consistent customer experience.