What sections of the Noodles & Company Franchise Agreement outline the franchisee's obligations regarding opening the franchise?
Noodles_Company Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ur restaurant and provide you with a list of approved suppliers. We will review reports on the
- status of construction that you provide, and, if we choose, visit the construction site. We will also provide guidance to you in developing your Noodles & Company restaurants as we determine. (Franchise Agreement, Section 3.03);
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- We will provide training to you and/or your first Operating Partner and a limited number of your general managers. However, as described in Item 7 and Section 4 of the Franchise Agreement, you will be responsible for all compensation and expenses (including travel, meals and lodging) incurred due to any training programs. This training is described in detail later in this Item. (Franchise Agreement, Section 4);
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- We will allow you access to our internal site which is an app platform powered by PlayerLync. This site is internally referred to as "The Binder" and is operated on an iPad. You will provide the hardware (iPad) based on the requirements of the platform. The system cost is per device per month. "The Binder" will provide you access to our electronic Operations Manual and other helpful information. You may print one copy of the Noodles & Company Operations Manual (147 pages) from "The Binder", which is allowed as a loan to you. (The Operations Manual Table of Contents is attached as Exhibit D.) The Operations Manual currently consists of a series of documents and writings regarding training, management, quality assurance, health and safety, safety and security, customer service, Approved Suppliers and other requirements for the establishment and operation of a Noodles & Company restaurant. (Franchise Agreement, Sections 4.03 and 12). You are solely responsible for any access license fees associated with use of the portal and for obtaining all necessary hardware and software for this access; and
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Source: Item 9 — FRANCHISEE'S OBLIGATIONS (FDD pages 33–35)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Noodles & Company Franchise Disclosure Document, several sections of the Franchise Agreement outline the franchisee's obligations regarding opening a franchise. Section 3.03 pertains to the franchisor's guidance during the construction phase, including reviewing the franchisee's construction status updates and visiting the construction site if Noodles & Company chooses. Section 4 addresses the training requirements for the franchisee, their Operating Partner, and general managers, although Item 7 and Section 4 specify that the franchisee is responsible for all compensation and expenses related to the training programs. Section 3.06 states that if a franchisee has not previously owned or managed a Noodles & Company restaurant, Noodles & Company will provide opening operational assistance for the franchisee's first two restaurants, unless the franchisee is an affiliate of an existing area operator who has already opened restaurants.
Additionally, the FDD mentions that a Noodles & Company restaurant must be open and operating within 180 days after signing the Franchise Agreement. Before opening, the franchisee, their Operating Partner, and management personnel must successfully complete the appropriate training program as described in Section 4 of the Franchise Agreement. Failure to complete the training to Noodles & Company's satisfaction could result in the termination of the Area Development Agreement or Franchise Agreement(s).
Prospective franchisees should carefully review these sections of the Franchise Agreement to fully understand their obligations and the support provided by Noodles & Company during the opening phase. Paying close attention to the timelines, training requirements, and financial responsibilities associated with opening a Noodles & Company restaurant is crucial for a successful launch. Franchisees should also conduct thorough due diligence, consulting with legal and real estate professionals, before making site selection decisions, as Noodles & Company's approval of a site does not guarantee success.