What are 'Proprietary Goods' that a Moes Southwest Grill franchisee must purchase from approved suppliers?
Moes_Southwest_Grill Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must purchase all of your requirements of Proprietary Ingredients, Proprietary Products, and proprietary uniforms, signs, menu boards, smallwares, materials, supplies, paper goods, equipment, and packaging (collectively, the "Proprietary Goods") from us, our affiliates, or our designated Approved Suppliers.
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD page 92)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Moe's Southwest Grill's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to purchase specific items, known as "Proprietary Goods," from Moe's Southwest Grill, its affiliates, or designated approved suppliers. These Proprietary Goods encompass a range of essential items necessary for operating the franchise.
The term "Proprietary Goods" specifically includes proprietary ingredients, proprietary products, proprietary uniforms, signs, menu boards, smallwares, materials, supplies, paper goods, equipment, and packaging. This means a franchisee cannot source these items from just any vendor; they must adhere to the approved supplier list provided by Moe's Southwest Grill.
This requirement ensures brand consistency and quality control across all Moe's Southwest Grill locations. While it limits a franchisee's choice of suppliers, it also aims to maintain uniform standards for the products and services offered. Franchisees should be aware that Moe's Southwest Grill may derive revenue from these required purchases, including through volume discounts or promotional allowances from suppliers.