Does Southern Steer have discretion over the topics, duration, date, and location of Brand Conferences?
Southern_Steer Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
s at Franchisee's reasonable request during Franchisee's regular business hours via the telephone, e-mail or other means determined by Franchisor.
- 10.3. Continuing Services. Currently, the continuing services provided by Franchisor, its Affiliate or designee after Franchisee's Required Opening Date will include:
- (a) Providing on-site assistance as described in Section 10.4;
- (b) May, but is not required, to conduct an annual Brand Conference and Periodic Conferences and Seminars as further described in Section 6.7;
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 may conduct an annual Brand Conference and Periodic Conferences and Seminars. However, Southern Steer is not required to do so.
The franchisee is required to pay the then-current Brand Conference Fee for themselves, their Operating Principal, or their Designated Manager to attend the Brand Conference. If the franchisee wants to have additional attendees at the Brand Conference, they will be required to pay the then-current fee for additional attendees. The franchisee is also responsible for covering all travel and living expenses incurred by their attendees to attend the Brand Conference.
The FDD does not specify who determines the topics, duration, date, and location of the Brand Conference. A prospective franchisee should seek clarification from Southern Steer regarding the specifics of the Brand Conference, including the content covered, how long it lasts, when and where it is held, and who determines these details.