A franchise agreement is an important legal document that governs the relationship
between a franchisee and a franchisor. As a franchise candidate, it’s crucial that you
understand what these agreements entail before making the commitment to purchase a
franchise.
At first glance, franchise agreements can seem intimidating, much like any lengthy
contract. You may wonder if there is room to negotiate certain terms, as you would
when purchasing a car. The reality is that established, successful franchisors have
standard agreements that apply uniformly to all franchisees. This ensures fairness, as
all franchisees receive equal terms. It also avoids potential legal issues that could arise
if some franchisees negotiate special deals.
While specific terms may vary, franchise agreements typically address:
- Initial fees and ongoing costs
- Length of the franchise agreement (often 10 years)
- Details about location, equipment, supplies, etc.
- Operating procedures to maintain brand integrity
- Description of the franchisee’s exclusive territory
This agreement is mutually beneficial for both parties. As the franchisee, it assures you
will receive the necessary tools, training, and support from the franchisor to give your
location the best chance of succeeding. The franchisor benefits by being able to
maintain quality standards across all franchise locations.
For example, having an exclusive territory outlined in the agreement guarantees no
direct competition from the franchisor within a certain area. However, the size of the
territory is one element that may be open to some negotiation. If the proposed territory
size is a concern for you, be sure to inquire about this.
Other key points the agreement will define include:
- What is covered by the initial franchise fee
- If initial inventory/supplies are provided
- Any requirements around ongoing inventory
- Level of control over branding and marketing
- Training and ongoing support offered
- National vs. local advertising and cost-sharing
- How royalties are calculated and paid
- Bookkeeping, accounting, and reporting obligations
While franchise agreements favor the franchisor, they also set you up for success as a
franchisee. Be sure to carefully review each provision line-by-line to understand how it
affects you. Reputable franchisors will take time to explain the agreement and answer
any questions. Entering this mutually beneficial partnership with full transparency
upfront will put your potential franchise on solid footing.
