Can the Southern Steer Brand Manual be modified by the Franchisor?
Southern_Steer Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Manual maintained by the Franchisor will be controlling in all respects.
- 11.2. Changes To Brand Manual And System. Franchisee understands and agrees that due to changes in competitive circumstances, presently unforeseen changes in the needs of customers and/or presently unforeseen technological and other innovations, the System may change to best serve the interests of Franchisor, Franchisee, other franchisees and licensees and the System. Accordingly, Franchisee expressly understands and agrees that Franchisor may from time to time, in its sole discretion, (a) change the components of the System; (b) delete, add to, or otherwise modify the Food, Beverages and Products and other food, food items, equipment, FF&E and services which the Southern Steer Business is authorized to offer or use; (c) change, improve or modify the Marks; and (d) delete, add to or otherwise modify the Brand Manual. Franchisee may be notified of such changes by any method, including but not limited to, e mail, posting the changes to an Intranet, mail, teleconference or facsimile.
Source: Item 22 — ITEM. 22 CONTRACTS (FDD pages 61–168)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Southern Steer Franchise Disclosure Document, Southern Steer has the authority to modify the Brand Manual. The document states that due to competitive changes, customer needs, and technological innovations, Southern Steer may change the components of the System, modify the products offered, change the Marks, and modify the Brand Manual.
Southern Steer will notify franchisees of these changes through methods such as email, intranet postings, mail, teleconferences, or fax. Franchisees are responsible for implementing these changes at their own cost within the timeframe specified by Southern Steer. The Brand Manual remains the property of Southern Steer, and franchisees are prohibited from making copies or disseminating it.
This means that as a Southern Steer franchisee, you must stay updated with any changes to the Brand Manual and be prepared to adapt your business operations accordingly. Failure to comply with these changes could put a franchisee in breach of the franchise agreement. The franchisee is responsible for the costs associated with implementing these changes, which could impact profitability.