Can a My Salon Suite franchisee use an alternative to the recommendations or guidelines in the Manual?
My_Salon_Suite Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The required standards generally will be set forth in the Manual or other written materials.
The Manual also will include guidelines or recommendations in addition to required standards.
In some instances, the required standards will include recommendations or guidelines to meet the required standards.
Franchisee may follow the recommendations or guidelines or some other suitable alternative, provided Franchisee meets and complies with the required standards.
In other instances, no suitable alternative may exist.
To protect Franchisor's interests in the System and Marks, Franchisor reserves the right to determine if Franchisee is meeting a required standard and whether an alternative is suitable to any recommendations or guidelines.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 95–230)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to My Salon Suite's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees have some flexibility in following the guidelines and recommendations outlined in the Manual. The Manual includes both required standards and additional guidelines or recommendations. Franchisees can opt for an alternative approach as long as they consistently meet the required standards set by My Salon Suite.
However, the FDD stipulates that in certain situations, no suitable alternative to the Manual's guidelines may exist. My Salon Suite retains the authority to determine whether a franchisee is meeting the required standards and whether a proposed alternative is acceptable. This ensures that the alternative aligns with the brand's interests in maintaining the System and Marks.
This flexibility allows My Salon Suite franchisees to adapt certain aspects of their business to local conditions or personal preferences, provided they adhere to the core standards that protect the brand and system. Franchisees should be aware that any deviation from the Manual's recommendations is subject to approval by My Salon Suite to ensure compliance with the overall standards.