How does Noodles & Company define 'Alternative (Alternate) Approved Supplier'?

According to the 2025 Noodles & Company Franchise Disclosure Document, an 'Alternative (Alternate) Approved Supplier' is defined as a supplier that a franchisee or another area operator has proposed to supply Non-Proprietary Products, and whom Noodles & Company has approved to do so, in accordance with the terms of the franchise agreement.

In simpler terms, if a Noodles & Company franchisee wants to use a supplier for Non-Proprietary Products (items that Noodles & Company doesn't consider unique to their brand) that isn't already on Noodles & Company's approved list, they can suggest one. However, this supplier must then be officially approved by Noodles & Company before the franchisee can use them.

This definition is important for prospective franchisees because it clarifies the process for sourcing Non-Proprietary Products. While franchisees aren't limited to only using suppliers pre-approved by Noodles & Company, they must go through a formal approval process for any alternative suppliers they wish to use. This ensures that all suppliers meet Noodles & Company's standards and comply with the franchise agreement.