As of January 31, 2025, has Southern Steer collected any Brand Fund Contributions?

According to the 2025 Southern Steer Franchise Disclosure Document, as of January 31, 2025, Southern Steer had not collected any Brand Fund Contributions. However, Southern Steer reserves the right to establish a Brand Fund with 30 days' notice to franchisees. If established, franchisees will be required to contribute 1% of their gross revenue weekly to the Brand Fund. Neither Southern Steer nor its affiliates will contribute to the Brand Fund.

The Brand Fund, if established, will be used for various advertising and marketing purposes, including media advertising, public relations, and administrative costs. Southern Steer has the discretion to place advertising in local, regional, or national media, including print, direct mail, radio, online media, e-mail, social media, or television. Franchisees can request an annual unaudited financial statement for the Brand Fund to see how the funds were spent during the past fiscal year.

Even without a Brand Fund, franchisees are required to spend 1% of their gross revenue on local advertising and promotion. Southern Steer may also establish local advertising cooperatives, requiring franchisees within designated areas to participate and contribute up to 1% of their gross revenue. Additionally, franchisees must spend a minimum of $15,000 on grand opening advertising and sales promotions within the first 90 days of opening their Southern Steer Business.