How will Southern Steer notify franchisees of changes to the Brand Manual, and what are the franchisee's responsibilities in checking for these changes?
Southern_Steer Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We may notify You of changes to the Brand Manual by any method, including but not limited to, email, posting the modified Brand Manual on an intranet or on Our website. But, You are responsible for checking the intranet and/or Our website for changes to the Brand Manual. You must ensure that Your copy of the Brand Manual is kept current at all times. You will be required to abide by any such modifications, changes, additions, deletions and alterations to the Brand Manual and You will be responsible for all costs and expenses that You may incur to comply. In addition, You may need to purchase updated equipment, products and supplies at Your own cost. If there is any dispute as to the contents of the Brand Manual, the terms of the master copy maintained by Us, at Our principal office, will control.
Source: Item 11 — ITEM. 11 FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 26–35)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Southern Steer's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Southern Steer may notify franchisees of changes to the Brand Manual through various methods, including email or by posting the modified Brand Manual on an intranet or the company's website. While Southern Steer may use these methods to communicate updates, the ultimate responsibility lies with the franchisee to actively check the intranet or website for any changes.
Southern Steer franchisees must ensure their copy of the Brand Manual is current at all times. Franchisees are required to abide by any modifications, changes, additions, deletions, and alterations to the Brand Manual. This includes being responsible for all costs and expenses incurred to comply with these changes, which may also involve purchasing updated equipment, products, and supplies at their own expense.
In case of any dispute regarding the contents of the Brand Manual, the terms of the master copy maintained by Southern Steer at its principal office will take precedence. This underscores the importance of franchisees staying informed about updates and adhering to the most current version of the manual as defined by Southern Steer. The Brand Manual is approximately 130 pages, and the table of contents is included as Exhibit H to the Franchise Disclosure Document.