What certification must a Noodles & Company franchisee obtain from their architect before opening?

According to the 2025 Noodles & Company Franchise Disclosure Document, prior to opening a restaurant, a franchisee must obtain written certification from their registered architect. This certification must confirm that the Noodles & Company restaurant was constructed substantially in accordance with the plans consented to by Noodles & Company.

This requirement ensures that the restaurant's construction aligns with the franchisor's approved design and standards. It protects the brand's image and operational consistency. The franchisee is responsible for ensuring their architect provides this certification, which is a crucial step in the opening process.

Noodles & Company requires this certification as one of several conditions that must be met before a restaurant can open. Other conditions include compliance with all agreements, being current on all monetary obligations, providing a fully executed copy of the lease, entering into an IT Support Services Agreement, obtaining a certificate of occupancy and other required certificates, approval of the restaurant and staffing, compliance with pre-opening training requirements, and furnishing copies of all required insurance policies.