What agreement do I enter into with Noodles & Company regarding liability for site selection approval?

According to Noodles & Company's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, when Noodles & Company approves a site you propose, you and your owners must release and hold harmless Noodles & Company, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and agents from any losses, damages, and liabilities that arise from or connect with the selection or approval of the premises for development as a Noodles & Company restaurant. You also agree to pay the franchise fee in a timely manner for the approved site. You also agree not to locate the Noodles & Company restaurant at any other location without obtaining prior written approval and completing the entire site selection process for the new site.

Noodles & Company's approval of a site doesn't constitute a warranty or representation about the site's suitability. The decision to develop and operate a Noodles & Company restaurant at any site is based on your own independent investigation of the site's suitability. Noodles & Company's approval means they are willing to grant a franchise for a Noodles & Company restaurant at that location, according to the terms of the agreement.

This agreement is typical in franchising, where the franchisee usually bears the ultimate responsibility for site selection and performance. While Noodles & Company provides site criteria and approval, the franchisee is expected to conduct their own due diligence to ensure the location is viable for their business. This protects Noodles & Company from liability if a location underperforms, as the franchisee has independently assessed the site's potential.