How does Noodles & Company define a 'Limited Access Highway' in the context of the franchise agreement?

According to the 2025 Noodles & Company Franchise Disclosure Document, a 'Limited Access Highway' is defined as a portion of a highway that includes oasis or service center facilities designed for motorists and truckers. This definition also encompasses highways that have limited access from surface roads, which are commonly known as freeways or Interstate Highways.

This definition is important for prospective franchisees because Noodles & Company may operate or franchise locations in Non-Traditional Venues, which are excluded from the Development Area granted to a franchisee. These Non-Traditional Venues include car and truck rest stops, travel centers, and Limited Access Highway oasis and rest and service areas.

Therefore, while a franchisee may have development rights in a specific geographic area, Noodles & Company retains the right to develop locations within that area in Non-Traditional Venues such as those found on Limited Access Highways. This could impact a franchisee's potential customer base and revenue, as Noodles & Company could establish a location within their Development Area that directly competes with their franchised restaurant.