factual

How does a Southern Steer franchisee request a financial statement for the Brand Fund?

Southern_Steer Franchise · 2025 FDD

Answer from 2025 FDD Document

Upon Franchisee's written request, Franchisor will send Franchisee an annual unaudited financial statement for the Brand Fund that indicates how the funds in the Brand Fund have been spent during the previous year.

Franchisor does not have the Brand Fund audited, so audited financial statements are not available.

Franchisor will not be required to spend the Brand Fund Contribution in the same Calendar Year in which the payments were made.

All interest accrued by the Brand Fund will be the property of the Brand Fund.

Source: Item 22 — ITEM. 22 CONTRACTS (FDD pages 61–168)

What This Means (2025 FDD)

According to Southern Steer's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee can request an annual unaudited financial statement for the Brand Fund by submitting a written request to Southern Steer. This statement will detail how the funds within the Brand Fund were spent during the previous year.

It's important to note that Southern Steer does not have the Brand Fund audited, so audited financial statements are not available to franchisees. The Brand Fund is administered by Southern Steer, and the company is not obligated to spend the Brand Fund contributions in the same calendar year in which the payments were made. Any interest accrued by the Brand Fund remains the property of the Brand Fund.

Southern Steer may use the Brand Fund to cover administrative and overhead costs, including salaries and expenses related to administering the fund and its programs. These programs can include market research, social media, website development, and the preparation of marketing materials. Southern Steer assumes no liability for collecting amounts due to the Brand Fund or for any actions related to its administration. The agreement specifies that the relationship between Southern Steer and its franchisees regarding the Brand Fund does not create a trust or fiduciary relationship.

Disclaimer: This information is extracted from the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document and is provided for research purposes only. It does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult with a franchise attorney before making any investment decisions.