Is a Noodles & Company franchisee allowed to have vending machines in their restaurant?
Noodles_Company Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You agree that your Noodles & Company Restaurant will offer for sale food, beverages and other products, services and merchandise related to the Noodles & Company Restaurant concept that we determine from time to time to be appropriate for your Noodles & Company Restaurant. You further agree that your Noodles & Company Restaurant will not, without our approval, offer any products or services (including promotional items) not then authorized by us. Your Noodles & Company Restaurant may not be used for any purpose other than the operation of a Noodles & Company Restaurant in compliance with this Agreement. You agree not to permit the use of or location within your Noodles & Company Restaurant any vending machines, racks, electronic, non-electronic or gambling type games, or other items not specifically approved by us in writing prior to such use or location in the Restaurant. You agree that your Noodles & Company Restaurant will offer courteous and efficient service and a pleasant ambiance, consistent with your acknowledgments in Section 1.02 and consistent with the service and ambiance offered at Company-owned Noodles & Company Restaurants, including music requirements and other ambiancerelated items.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 99–350)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Noodles & Company Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are generally prohibited from having vending machines in their restaurants unless they receive prior written approval from the franchisor. Specifically, the FDD states that a Noodles & Company restaurant may not have vending machines or other unapproved items without explicit written consent.
This restriction ensures that the Noodles & Company brand maintains a consistent image and offering across all locations. By controlling the presence of vending machines, racks, electronic games, and other items, Noodles & Company aims to standardize the customer experience and protect its brand identity. This requirement allows Noodles & Company to ensure that all aspects of the restaurant align with their established standards and operational procedures.
For a prospective franchisee, this means that they cannot independently decide to install vending machines or similar items in their Noodles & Company restaurant. Any such additions would require a formal request and written approval from the franchisor. This policy is in place to maintain uniformity and quality control within the Noodles & Company franchise system.