What fees are associated with replacement Operating Principals and Designated Managers attending the Initial Training Program for a Southern Steer franchise?

According to Southern Steer's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee appoints or hires new Operating Principals and Designated Managers after the Southern Steer Business's Required Opening Date, these individuals must attend the Initial Training Program within 45 days of their appointment or hiring (or another timeframe designated by Southern Steer). The franchisee is responsible for paying Southern Steer the then-current training fee for these replacement personnel to attend the training program. This ensures that all individuals in key management positions are properly trained in the Southern Steer system.

In addition to the training fee, the franchisee is also responsible for covering all travel, living expenses, and wages (if applicable) incurred by these replacement Operating Principals and Designated Managers while they attend the Initial Training Program. This can include costs such as transportation, accommodation, meals, and any salaries or wages paid to the individuals during the training period. These costs are separate from the training fee paid to Southern Steer and represent an additional financial obligation for the franchisee.

This policy ensures that replacement personnel are adequately trained, but it also places a financial burden on the franchisee. Franchisees need to factor in these potential training costs when making staffing decisions and consider the expense of training new managers. It is common in franchising to require training for key personnel, but the specific fees and associated costs can vary significantly between different franchise systems. Therefore, prospective franchisees should carefully review the training requirements and associated costs outlined in the FDD to fully understand their financial obligations.