What access to the franchisee's Computers and Software must a Southern Steer franchisee provide to the franchisor?
Southern_Steer Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The Franchisee's Computers and Software will be configured to provide the Franchisor with direct electronic access to the Franchisee's Computers and Software, and databases to upload the data, financial information and other information the Franchisee is required to provide to the Franchisor pursuant to this Agreement or the Brand Manual, including Gross Revenues, and by category, direct labor costs and food costs.
The Franchisee will, upon written notice from the Franchisor, modify, enhance, update and upgrade the Computers and Software (including timely executing and delivering any documents, contracts, or agreements as Franchisor may reasonably require), at its sole expense, to the standards, specifications and requirements specified in the Brand Manual or otherwise in writing by the Franchisor.
Source: Item 22 — ITEM. 22 CONTRACTS (FDD pages 61–168)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Southern Steer Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must configure their Computers and Software to provide Southern Steer with direct electronic access. This access allows Southern Steer to upload data, financial information, and other required information, including Gross Revenues, direct labor costs, and food costs, all categorized as specified in the Franchise Agreement or Brand Manual.
This requirement ensures that Southern Steer can monitor the financial performance and operational data of each franchise location. The franchisee is also responsible for modifying, enhancing, updating, and upgrading their Computers and Software upon written notice from Southern Steer. These modifications must meet the standards and specifications outlined in the Brand Manual or as otherwise specified in writing by Southern Steer.
For a prospective franchisee, this means they must be prepared to invest in compliant computer systems and software and allow Southern Steer ongoing access to their financial and operational data. They must also budget for potential future upgrades and modifications to these systems as directed by Southern Steer. This level of access is typical in many franchise systems, as it allows the franchisor to maintain brand consistency, monitor performance, and provide support to franchisees.