Who bears the expense of obtaining and maintaining communication equipment and systems for a Southern Steer franchise?
Southern_Steer Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
s the right to collect these amounts in addition to any and all of the Franchisor's other rights for non-compliance provided for under this Agreement. The Franchisee and the Franchisor agree that these amounts are reasonable, constitute liquidated damages, and are not a penalty.
8. EQUIPMENT; COMPUTER HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE
- 8.1. Communications Equipment; Telephone Lines. The Franchisee will, at its sole expense, obtain and maintain the dedicated telephone lines, high speed Internet connections, and other communication and transmission equipment and systems for the Franchisee's Southern Steer Business as are specified in the Brand Manual or otherwise in writing. The Franchisee will install and maintain telephone answering systems and other telephonic devices at the Southern Steer Business and will operate all communication and transmission systems and devices as specified by the Franchisor in the Brand Manual or otherwise in writing.
- 8.2. Computer Hardware and Software; Point-of-Sale System. The Franchisee will, at its sole expense, lease, license or purchase the computer hardware, computer software, peripheral devices and point-of-sale, cash register, credit card processing, online ordering, loyalty scanner, or other systems related to credit card processing, and operating systems ("Computers and Software") that meet the standards, specifications and requirements established by the Franchisor as set forth in the Brand Manual or otherwise in writing.
Source: Item 22 — ITEM. 22 CONTRACTS (FDD pages 61–168)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Southern Steer's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is responsible for all expenses related to obtaining and maintaining communication equipment and systems for their Southern Steer business. This includes dedicated telephone lines, high-speed internet connections, and other communication and transmission equipment. The specific requirements for these systems are detailed in the Brand Manual or provided in writing by Southern Steer.
In addition to the physical equipment, the franchisee must also install and maintain telephone answering systems and other telephonic devices at the Southern Steer Business. The operation of all communication and transmission systems and devices must adhere to the specifications outlined by Southern Steer in the Brand Manual or in writing. This ensures that all Southern Steer locations maintain a consistent and professional communication standard.
The franchisee is also responsible for the costs associated with computer hardware and software, including point-of-sale systems. This extends to modifications, enhancements, updates, and upgrades to these systems as directed by Southern Steer. Furthermore, the franchisee must provide Southern Steer with direct electronic access to their computer systems and databases, allowing for the transmission of financial and operational data, such as Gross Revenues, direct labor costs, and food costs.