Can the Southern Steer franchisor interview employees and customers during an inspection?
Southern_Steer Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The Franchisee will permit and cooperate with the Franchisor or its representatives to enter, remain on, and inspect the Southern Steer Business without prior notice.
The Franchisee agrees that the Franchisor may: (a) interview the Franchisee's employees and customers; (b) take photographs and videotapes of the interior and exterior of the Franchised Location; (c) examine and remove samples of the Foods, Beverages and Products and other products sold or used at the Franchisee's Southern Steer Business; and (d) evaluate the quality of the Foods, Beverages and Products, other products, and the services provided by the Franchisee to its customers.
The Franchisor will have the right to use all interviews, photographs and videotapes of the Franchisee's Southern Steer Business for such purposes as the Franchisor deems appropriate, including use in advertising, marketing and promotional materials, without any approval of or any compensation to the Franchisee.
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 right to inspect the Southern Steer Business without prior notice. As part of this inspection, Southern Steer is permitted to interview the franchisee's employees and customers. This allows Southern Steer to assess various aspects of the business.
Southern Steer can also take photographs and videotapes of both the interior and exterior of the franchised location. Additionally, they can examine and remove samples of foods, beverages, products, and other items sold or used at the Southern Steer Business. This comprehensive approach enables Southern Steer to thoroughly evaluate the quality of products, services, and overall operations.
For a prospective franchisee, this means they should expect unannounced visits from Southern Steer representatives who may interact with their staff and customers. Franchisees should ensure their business consistently meets Southern Steer's standards to avoid any negative findings during these inspections. The franchisee should also be aware that Southern Steer can use any interviews, photographs, and videotapes for advertising, marketing, and promotional materials without any approval or compensation to the franchisee.