Does Noodles & Company charge a fee for additional training programs?
Noodles_Company Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We will not charge any fees for attending the training programs we are required to provide pursuant to the Franchise Agreement; however, you must pay for additional training. As described in Item 7, you will be responsible for all compensation and expenses (including travel, meals and lodging) incurred due to any training programs.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 36–48)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Noodles & Company's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, while the company does not charge fees for the training programs they are required to provide under the Franchise Agreement, franchisees are responsible for fees associated with additional training programs.
The initial training covers restaurant operations, including food preparation, safety, equipment maintenance, and cost and inventory control. This training is mandatory for the franchisee, their Operating Partner, and the General Manager, beginning several weeks before the restaurant opens. While Noodles & Company provides the training, the franchisee must cover all compensation and expenses, including travel, meals, and lodging, for themselves and their employees during the training period.
Noodles & Company also requires franchisees and their personnel to attend periodic or additional training programs. The franchisor may also allow franchisees to establish their own certified training programs, which must meet Noodles & Company's standards. If personnel do not meet the standards, they must complete the training program again to be re-certified. The FDD specifies that the franchisee is responsible for the costs associated with these additional training programs.