What is the 'Computer Systems Fee' that Petro Stopping Center may charge franchisees?
Petro_Stopping_Center Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must use the computer systems, hardware, software, technology, and related services we specify in developing and operating the Petro Center (the "Computer System"). We may require you to obtain specified Computer Systems, including the rewards computer system, proprietary shop system, and proprietary shower system, and related services from our Affiliates and may modify specifications for any components of the Computer System or related services from time to time. Our modifications and specifications for components of the Computer System may require you to incur costs to purchase, lease or license new or modified computer hardware or software and to obtain service and support for the Computer Systems during the Term. You will incur costs in connection with obtaining the computer hardware and software comprising the Computer Systems (or additions or modifications). Within 30 days after you receive notice from us, you must obtain the components of the Computer Systems that we designate and require. The Computer Systems must be capable of connecting your Petro Center's Computer System with our Computer Systems so that we can review the results of your Petro Center's operations. We also have the right to charge you a systems fee (the "Computer Systems Fee") for any proprietary software that we license to you and other maintenance and support services that we, or our Affiliates, furnish to you related to the Computer Systems.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 44–53)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Petro Stopping Center's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees may be required to pay a "Computer Systems Fee." This fee covers any proprietary software that Petro Stopping Center licenses to the franchisee, as well as other maintenance and support services related to the Computer Systems that Petro Stopping Center or its affiliates provide.
Prospective franchisees should note that the initial hardware expense for computer systems ranges from $110,000 to $240,000, and the initial software expense ranges from $30,000 to $60,000. Additionally, franchisees must pay a Computer System Installation Fee of $50,000. Ongoing expenses related to computer systems are estimated to be between $12,000 and $40,000 per year.
It is important for potential franchisees to understand the full scope of these technology-related costs and fees, as they represent a significant investment in the Petro Stopping Center franchise. Franchisees are also obligated to maintain PCI & Data Security Standard (DSS) compliance and adhere to information security standards, incurring further costs to remediate any identified deficiencies. These costs are in addition to the Computer Systems Fee.