Franchise Agreement
The original documents were scanned as an image. The original file can be downloaded at the link above.
Sample Franchise Agreement
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FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
To simplify the language of this Agreement HOB means House of Bread Franchising Inc., the "Franchisor". "You" means the person, corporation, partnership or other entity who is buying the franchise, the Franchisee. If a corporation, partnership or other entity is the Franchisee, "You" includes the Franchisee's owners.
This Franchise Agreement is entered into and between House of Bread Franchising (hereinafter HOB), a California Corporation, whose principal address is 858 Higuera St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, and you the Franchisee^)_______________________________________________.
LET ALL PARTIES KNOW
HOB owns a unique system for opening and operating a store designed to provide fresh, organic, whole grain breads. The business format created by HOB and which is known as the HOB System (the "System"), produces the highest quality of baked products from the finest ingredients.
The distinguishing characteristics of the System include the name "House of Bread", distinctive interior and exterior designs, confidential operating procedures, standards and specifications for equipment, services, products and, management and marketing programs. All of these distinguishing characteristics may be changed, improved, and further developed by HOB from time to time. They are known as "Trade Secrets" and are designated by and identified with the marks described in this Agreement.
HOB identifies House of Bread by means of certain trade names, service marks, logos, emblems, and indicia of origin, including the trademark "House of Bread" and other trade names and service marks which are now, or may be in the future, designated by HOB in writing for use in connection with the System (the "Marks").
HOB continues to use, develop and control the use of the Marks in order to identify for the public the source of services and products marketed under the System, and which represent the System's high standards of quality, cleanliness, appearance and service.
You recognize the benefits to be derived from being identified with the System. You also recognize the value of the Marks and the continued uniformity of image to you, HOB, and other franchisees of HOB. You understand the importance to the System of HOB's high and uniform standards of quality, cleanliness, appearance and service, and further recognize the necessity of opening and operating your HOB outlet (the "Outlet") in conformity with the System.
You recognize that in order to enhance the value of the System and goodwill associated with it, this Agreement places detailed obligations on you, including strict adherence to HOB's reasonable present and future requirements regarding the types of services offered, advertising, recipes,
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product lines physical facilities, operational techniques, and related matters.
You wish to be assisted, trained, and franchised to operate an Outlet pursuant to the provisions and at the location within the territory specified in this Agreement. You have also had an adequate opportunity to be thoroughly advised of the terms and conditions of this Agreement by counsel of your own choosing.
THEREFORE, you and HOB, intending to be legally bound and in consideration of mutual agreements, covenants and promises contained in this Agreement, agree as follows:
SECTION 1 - GRANT OF LICENSE
1.1 Subject to the limitations contained in this Agreement, HOB grants to you, during the License Term and any extensions, the right and license (the "License") to:
A. Operate an Outlet upon the terms and conditions of this Agreement, in 1 territorial area and at 1 location described in Exhibit A;
B. Use the Marks at the Outlet; and
C. Offer and market at the Outlet only HOB's approved services and products.
1.2 The License does not include the right to market through the internet in any territory other than your exclusive territory. HOB does recognize that internet marketing may result in sales requests outside of the Franchisee's territory. The Franchisee may service those orders outside their territory with the understanding that it is not a territory owned by another Franchisee. Otherwise all orders within protected territories must be referred to the Franchisee who has that territory. HOB does market through the internet but refers all orders originating from within a protected territory to the franchisee's bakery for servicing.
You may wholesale to any vendor outside your territory upon the condition the territory is unprotected. Furthermore, when the territory is sold, then you would have no right to sell any products within the other franchisee's protected territory.
1.3 During the License Term and any extensions, HOB will not use or license others to use any of the Marks licensed to you in connection with the operation of any other Outlet within your Territory described in Exhibit A.
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SECTION 2 - LICENSE TERM AND EXTENSION PERIODS
This Agreement and the License granted will continue for a period of 10 years. This 10-year period, will begin on the date this Agreement is executed by HOB and is subject to prior termination in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement. When the original 10-year period expires and the end of each renewal period contemplated, you will have the option to renew your Franchise License for successive periods of 10 years each.
HOB may refuse to renew this Agreement and License if you have:
A. Failed to remedy any breach of this Agreement specified by HOB in a written notice to you; or
B. Committed 2 or more breaches of this Agreement of a substantial nature in the preceding 24 months prior to extension even if you have remedied the breaches.
HOB may also refuse to renew this Agreement and License if you are not current in payment obligations to HOB and to your trade creditors and your business location landlord or mortgage holder (if any).
You will execute a Renewal Franchise Agreement and all other legal agreements in the form then being used by HOB in granting new franchises. These agreements may include without limitation higher Royalty Fees and higher Advertising Fees. There will not be, however, another Initial Franchise Fee charged in the renewal of the Franchise Agreement. Failure by you to execute these renewal agreements within 30 days after their delivery to you will be deemed an election by you not to renew the HOB Franchise.
As additional conditions to renewal, you will:
C. Execute a general release of all claims you may have against HOB, its officers, directors, shareholders, agents, and employees, whether in their corporate and/or individual capacities. This release will include all claims arising under any federal, state, or local law, rule, or ordinance arising out of or concerning this Agreement and will be in a form satisfactory to HOB;
D. Make capital expenditures as may be reasonably required to renovate and modernize the Outlet and its signs and equipment so as to reflect the then-current image of the Outlets. If renovation and modernization of the Outlet is not possible or feasible, you will relocate the Outlet within your exclusive Territory after approval by HOB in writing and in accordance with HOB's relocation procedures.
The renewal fee is $5,000 and is due and payable to at the time of signing.
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You and HOB agree to give each other not less than 6 months prior written notice of an election not to renew this Agreement and License.
SECTION 3 - INITIAL FRANCHISE FEE
3.1 Upon executing this Agreement, you will pay to House of Bread the $14,000, which is one half of the Initial Franchise Fee. The remaining $14,000 is due after phase one of the training period. The franchise fee for a House of Bread junior is $10,000 and is all due upon signing a contract for the junior bakery.
3.2 The terms for the franchise fee under Multi-Unit Franchise offering are contained in a separate agreement.
3.3 The Initial Franchise Fee is non-refundable unless HOB's terminates you as a franchisee during training. The amount of actual expenses incurred by HOB will be deducted from the Initial Franchise Fee and the remaining amount will be refunded to you within 30 days of your notification of termination.
3.4 House of Bread has the option to elect to return the total amount of franchise fee paid during the term of the contract and then you would be obligated to de-identify yourself as a House of Bread franchise unit. You would still be able to operate your bread bakery using the production methods obtained during the franchise agreement; however, all House of Bread references, logos, and signs must be deleted.
SECTION 4 - CONTINUING ROYALTIES
4.1 During the first year of operation, you will, without notice from HOB, pay HOB a Royalty Fee in the amount of 6% of Gross Revenues of the preceding week. The week starts and ends on Sunday and the fee are due on a Tuesday. After the first year of operation, all royalty payments will be due monthly. Gross Revenues is defined in Section 6.
4.2 Each Royalty Fee payment will be accompanied by a statement of the previous week's Gross Revenues on a form approved by HOB along with a marketing report.
4.3 If you are unable to operate from the Outlet due to damage or loss to the Outlet caused or created by a casualty, act of God, condemnation, or other condition over which you have no control, then the Royalty Fee will be waived for a period no greater than 1 year commencing with the month in which the damage or loss occurs.
SECTION 5 - ADVERTISING AND PROMOTION
5.1 You will advertise and promote the opening of the Outlet at your own expense; however HOB will recommend the type, manner, and time period. Minimum required advertising and promotional expense prior to and during the first 3 months of operation would be
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$15,000.00. Up to 50% of the amount can be in the form of bread sampling or trade. A marketing form is required to be filled out indicating the type, manner and amount of marketing conducted. There is no advertising fee paid to House of Bread Franchising at this time.
5.2 After the first 3 months of operation and during the remaining License Term, you will spend a minimum of 2% of the Gross Revenues for the preceding month or portion thereof for advertising and promotion. This advertising expense is called the "Minimum Individual Advertising Expense." HOB will accept 50% of the required advertising amount be in the form of product trade with advertising forums or the distribution of samples at various marketing events.
During the License Term you will furnish HOB an accounting of your previous month's expenditures for advertising and promotion on a form provided by HOB. You also will provide House of Bread examples of the advertising proposed prior to the use.
HOB will make available to you all advertising and promotion material for the Outlet, which are used by HOB, and other franchisees. You will receive one sample of each type of advertising and promotion material at no charge. You may develop advertising materials for your own use, at your own cost. HOB must approve or not approve your advertising materials in writing within 48 hours. If HOB takes no action, you may use the advertising material submitted.
At a point in time when there are 3 or more House of Bread franchises in a "Local Media Area," a "Local Advertising Cooperative" will be established. The "Local Media Area" will mean the area covered by primary advertising media (television, radio and print) as designated by House of Bread. You must participate in a Local Advertising Cooperative if it now exists or when it is established in the Local Media Area where your business is located. This cooperative advertisement will be your competitive advantage.
Your contribution to the Local Advertising Cooperative will be a minimum of 2% of the Gross Revenues for the preceding month or portion thereof. When you are participating in a Local Advertising Cooperative you are not required to expend a minimum of 2% of your Gross Revenues for the preceding month on the Minimum Individual Advertising Expense. During the License Term you will furnish HOB an accounting of your previous month's contribution to the Local Advertising Cooperative on a form provided by HOB.
HOB will make available to the Local Advertising Cooperative all advertising and promotional material for the Outlets, which are used by HOB, and other Local Advertising Cooperatives and franchisees. The Local Advertising Cooperative will receive one sample of each type of advertising and promotional material at no charge. If the Local Advertising Cooperative wants additional copies it must pay duplication costs. The Local Advertising Cooperative may develop advertising materials for its own use, at its own cost. HOB must approve or not approve the advertising materials in writing within 48 hours. If HOB takes no action, the Local Advertising Cooperative may use the advertising material submitted.
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Each Local Advertising Cooperative must adopt written governing documents. Each Local Advertising Cooperative will determine its own voting procedures; however, each Company-Outlet (owned by HOB) in a Local Media Area, if any, will be entitled to one vote in the Local Advertising Cooperative and will contribute to the Local Advertising Cooperative in the same manner as you contribute. The members and their elected officers will be responsible for the administration of the Local Advertising Cooperative. Local Advertising Cooperatives will prepare quarterly and annual financial statements. The annual financial statement must be prepared by an independent accountant at the Local Advertising Cooperative's cost and be made available to you and all other franchisees in the Local Advertising Cooperative.
5.3 You will install and, during the term of this Agreement and License, will maintain an outdoor sign in a prominent location in accordance with HOB's sign specifications or as approved in writing by HOB, unless prohibited from doing so by applicable laws and regulations. You will use your best efforts to obtain any permit or variance required in order to allow the installation and maintenance of an outdoor sign meeting HOB's specifications so long as it does not impose any undue economic burden on you.
SECTION 6 - GROSS REVENUES
6.1 No mention of services or products in this Section is intended to mean or imply that such services or products are approved for sale at the Outlet by HOB.
6.2 For purposes of this Agreement, Gross Revenues includes the total of all receipts derived from services performed and products sold at the Outlet, whether the receipts are evidenced by cash, credit, checks, gift certificates, scrip, coupons (see Subsection 6.3 B.), services, property or other means of exchange.
6.3 Gross Revenues will not include:
A. Sales taxes or other taxes measured on the basis of the gross revenues of the business imposed by governmental authorities directly on sales and collected from customers, provided the taxes are added to the selling price and are in fact paid by you to the appropriate governmental authorities;
B. Promotional or discount coupons to the extent that you realize no revenue;
C. Employee receipt of service or products, if free, or any portion not paid for by an employee.
Cash refunded and credit given to customers, and receivables uncollectible from customers, will be deducted in computing Gross Revenues to the extent that it was previously included in Gross Revenues on which a Royalty Fee was paid.
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6.4 Gross Revenues will be deemed received by you at the time the services or products from which they were derived are delivered or rendered or at the time the relevant sale takes place, whichever occurs first. Gross Revenues consisting of property or services will be valued at the retail prices applicable and in effect at the time they are received.
SECTION 7 - RECORDS AND AUDITS - LATE PAYMENT CHARGE
7.1 You will prepare on a current basis, complete and accurate records concerning all financial, marketing and other operating aspects of the business conducted under this Agreement.
You will maintain an accounting system, which accurately reflects all operational aspects of the Outlet including uniform reports as may be required by HOB. Your records will include tax returns, daily reports, and statements of Gross Revenues (to be prepared each month for the preceding month), profit and loss statements and balance sheets (to be prepared at least annually by an independent accountant). You will also submit to HOB current financial statements and other reports as HOB may reasonably request to evaluate or compile research data on any operational aspect of the Outlet. All financial data with respect to your business that is required will be for HOB's own use, will be kept confidential and will not be made available to other franchisees, prospective franchisees, or other third parties except to the extent that HOB decides, or is required to, make an "earnings claim" under the franchise disclosure laws. The records required under this Subsection pertain only to your operation of the Outlet. HOB has no right to inspect, audit or copy the records of any unrelated business activity you may have.
7.2 From the date you and HOB sign this Agreement until 3 years after the end of the term of this Agreement including renewals, HOB or our authorized agent will have the right to request, receive, inspect and audit any of the records referred to above wherever they may be located. HOB agrees to do inspections and audits at reasonable times. You agree to keep all records and reports for 6 years from the date they originated. Should any inspection or audit disclose a deficiency in the payment of any Royalty, Advertising Fee or other amounts required to be paid under this agreement, you will immediately pay the deficiency to HOB, provided the deficiency exceeds $50.00, without prejudice or any other remedy of HOB under this Agreement. In addition, if the deficiency for any audit period equals or exceeds 2% of the correct amount of any Royalty, Advertising Fee or other amounts due, you will also immediately pay to HOB the entire cost of the inspection or audit including travel, lodging, meals, salaries and other expenses of the inspecting or auditing personnel. For the purposes of this Subsection, an audit period will be each fiscal year. Should the audit disclose an overpayment of any Royalty, Advertising Fees or other amounts due, HOB will promptly pay the amount of the overpayment to you provided that the amount exceeds $50.00.
7.3 To encourage prompt payment and to cover the costs and expenses involved in handling and processing late payments, you will also pay, upon demand, a late payment charge equal to the lesser of; (i) the maximum rate of interest due on open accounts; or (ii) 1 1/2% per month, on all payments due to HOB during the period of time said payments are due and unpaid but not more than the highest rate permitted by law. Each failure to pay Royalty Fees, Advertising Fees and other amounts payable to HOB when due is a material breach of this Agreement.
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SECTION 8 - SERVICES AND ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY THE FRANCHISOR
8.1 The Initial Franchise Fee and Royalty Fees are paid for the License, which includes the use of the Marks of HOB and for certain services rendered by HOB.
8.2 HOB will offer you initial and continuing services, as HOB deems necessary or advisable in furthering your franchised business and the business of the System as a whole and in connection with protecting the Marks and goodwill of HOB. Failure of HOB to provide any particular service, either initial or continuing, will not excuse you from paying the Initial Franchise Fee or the continuing Royalty Fees.
8.3 Currently, initial and continuing services provided by HOB are:
A. Designation of your exclusive Territory as stipulated in Sect.l.
B. Assisting you in finding and negotiating the lease or purchase of a location for your Outlet within your exclusive Territory through written material contained in the House of Bread Real Estate Guide. After the real estate training period, a House of Bread Franchising representative will go to your community and work with you in starting the real estate process. Furthermore, if requested by you HOB will assist you in securing third party representation to discover and negotiate a location as stipulated in Subsection 9.1.
C. Furnish you with specifications for all initial and replacement equipment, inventory and supplies required for the operation of your Outlet as stipulated Subsection 9.1.
D. Providing you and 1 of your employees with an initial training program. You and your designated head baker will attend and satisfactorily complete the initial training program prior to opening the franchised Outlet. The training program consists of seven different phases and will commence within 30 days of franchise contract signing and will be completed during the Grand Opening day of your outlet.
HOB will train you and 1 other person as follows:
Phase 1 is the "Initial Indoctrination Training". The first three-day formal training program covers most of the information needed to become familiar with the basics of the business. An itinerary of the training follows. Two days will be spent in an actual store environment observing and "hands-on" involvement in fundamental systems regarding: baked goods production, customer service, financial management (owner), opening and establishing operations, and other elements necessary to become familiar with the business. The Franchisee will gain first-hand experience of successful store operations. Not only does the Franchisee become familiar with store operations but he/she also learns how an operation is established and WHY specific tasks are important.
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PHASE ONE: INTRODUCTION ft TRAINING 3 days; Franchisee and/or manager: First Day: 9:00 A.M. - 10:00 A.M.
"Welcome and Indoctrination" 10:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M.
"Overview of Opening guide and critical time path" 12:00 P.M.-1:30 P.M. "Lunch on House of Bread" 1:30 P.M.-3:00 P.M.
"Management tools, weekly flash reports and the operating norms" 3:00 P.M.-4:00 P.M. "Overview of Finance" 4:00 P.M- 5:00 P.M.
"Review of House of Bread SLO profit and loss statement" "Explanation of cash flow projections for bank financing"
Second Day: 7:30 A.M. - 8:30 A.M.
"Explanation of the type of Equipment needed"
8.30 A.M.-9:30 A.M.
"The basics of space planning"
9:30 A. M-10:30 A.M.
"Overview of the information system as use as a cash register, 10:30 A.M.-11:00 A.M.
"How to find a general contractor and to avoid costly delays"
11:00 A.M. -12:00 P.M.
"Marketing strategies and tactics"
12:00 P.M.-1:00 P.M.
"A review of the next steps and a question and answer session" Third Day:
4:00 A.M-10:00 A.M.
"Experience the bakery production to understand the roles of each
of the employees and how everyone works together as a team" A-2
PHASE TWO: FTFT.D WORK IN FR ANrHIKFF'S COMMUNITY 7 - 6 mnntlw • Preliminary Planning • Finance * Real Estate • Permits & Licenses - Image Development ■ Facility Design • Pre-Build out Coordination ■ Market Investigation ■ Opening A House of Bread Operation.
PHASE THREE: WORKTNfi TN A POMP ANY OWNFn OPFR ATTON 6+ days: Franchisee and/or manager and/or key employees
Six Days: "Working in the Store" To include the following: "Bread Production" "Inventory; Purveyors and Product Standards;
Financial Management, Personnel Management" "Customer Service Standards, Store Maintenance, Operational
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Standards, Hiring and Training Employee" "Marketing, Public Relations, Merchandising, Selling"
PHASE FOUR: POMPT FTION OF THF F APll 1TY RI m DPI IT 1-3 months: ■ Completion of Facility Construction ■ Installation of Equipment Test Marketing • Pre-Opening Procedures
PHASE FIVE: FRANCHISEE TRAINING OF KEY EMPLOYEE; 5 days: Franchisor trains a key employee in the franchisor's bakery. Day one is a refresher course in baking for the franchisee. Day two, three, four franchisee will train with operational issues. Day five, the franchisee will perform retail duties.
PHASE SIX: SUPPORT TN FRANPHKFF'g OPERATION - 6 days:
"Six Days of Additional Support and Trouble Shooting In Franchisee's Operation"
PHASE SEVEN: r,RANn OPFNINO - l day after 1-3 months of planning: After the first month of business and prior to the end of the third month of business, the Franchisor will assist the Franchisee in Grand Opening programs and procedures. Programs must be implemented in conjunction with Franchisee's Neighborhood Marketing Program.
HOB does not charge for this training or service, but you must pay the travel and living expenses for you and your employees). Phase 1, 3, 5 of the training is on-site at House of Bread San Luis Obispo, California headquarters. HOB will pay for the expenses of HOB's field support team during phase 6 and 7.
HOB will hold annual meetings to discuss sales techniques, personnel training, bookkeeping, accounting, inventory control, performance standards, advertising programs and merchandising procedures. There is no conference fee, but you must pay all your travel and living expenses. These elective conferences are held at our San Luis Obispo, Ca. Headquarters, but may rotate to franchisee bakeries.
E. Assistance with respect to pre-opening and opening activities will be conducted as reasonably determined by HOB and just prior to and including the first week of operation of your Outlet.
F. Formulation of advertising and promotional programs as further stipulated in Section 5.
G. HOB will engage in the development of new products and service methods, as deemed beneficial in the sole discretion of HOB for the successful operation of the System. You will be informed of any new product or service methods.
H. You will be loaned 1 copy of HOB's Confidential Operating Manual containing mandatory and suggested specifications, standards, operating procedures and rules
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prescribed from time to time by HOB as further stipulated in Section 11.
SECTION 9 - LOCATION OF OUTLET; CONSTRUCTION AND OPENING FOR BUSINESS; LEASE OR MORTGAGE
9.1 If no location is specified within your exclusive Territory for your Outlet in Exhibit A, you will be responsible for locating and designating a location and for constructing and equipping the Outlet at the location in accordance with HOB's standards and general specifications. The location will be submitted in advance to HOB for acceptance, which will be deemed given if HOB does not object in writing specifying our objections within 15 days.
9.2 The location will be submitted for HOB's acceptance within 12 months of this Agreement date, or this Agreement will terminate and all fees will be retained by HOB as compensation for our services rendered to you. However, upon your demonstration you used due diligence in attempting to secure a location, this Agreement will remain in full force in effect until such location can be secured. You will provide HOB with the information HOB may reasonably request in connection with our evaluation of the location, including the cost of acquisition, development and construction and, if the property is to be leased by you, a copy of the lease. Any location inspection will be made solely at the option of HOB and will not be deemed to impose any responsibility on HOB for the construction of the Outlet. Upon designation and acceptance, the location will be deemed to be the location specified in Exhibit A as if originally incorporated in Exhibit A.
9.2 You and HOB acknowledge that the location of the Outlet is a major factor in the Outlet's potential for success and HOB may reject any location in our sole discretion, but HOB will not unreasonably withhold its consent to any location. HOB makes no representations or warranties with respect to the availability of appropriate locations or the suitability or potential of locations, which it approves.
9.3 HOB will help you in finding and negotiating the lease or purchase of a location for an Outlet by providing you with a House of Bread Real Estate Guide and sources for third party assistance. You will find three locations in your area and House of Bread will advise on the suitability of each location. There are specific methods used in the HOB's Real Estate Guide to select the location for your business. You will ascertain population density, traffic patterns and proximity of the proposed location to any other bakery locations. HOB does not hold itself out as a real estate expert, does not undertake to perform any analysis of any location, and does not undertake to advise as to the suitability of any location. HOB's approval of a location merely reflects belief that the proposed location appears to be suitable for the development of an Outlet.
9.4 You agree to construct (or renovate) and equip the Outlet at your expense in a good manner on or before the Construction Completion Date. The Construction Completion Date will be the earlier of: (a) 6 months from the date of execution of a lease for the Outlet; or (b) 12 months of this Agreement date. You will be given a six-month extension
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of the date if you can demonstrate that you used good faith and due diligence to complete the construction within the time frame. The construction (or renovation) will conform to all applicable requirements of local authorities and will be in accordance with the standards and general specifications of HOB. You acknowledge that the final plans and specifications for the Outlet will be prepared by an architect or general contractor of your choosing and at your expense. All plans and specifications or modifications proposed by you will be submitted to HOB prior to construction and will be modified as reasonably requested by HOB. House of Bread will have the right, but not the obligation, to inspect the construction to determine if the construction conforms to HOB's standards and general specifications.
9.5 You will have discharged, released of record or fully bonded, any construction liens or other liens that may be recorded or perfected which may be attached to the Outlet as a result of work done by or for you. In the event that the Outlet is not open for business on or before the Construction Completion Date (other than as a result of acts of God, unforeseen unavailability of raw materials or supplies, inability or delay in obtaining necessary equipment or approvals, permits or licenses, labor disputes or acts or omissions of HOB), HOB may terminate this Agreement with 30 days' prior written notice unless the Outlet will open for business within the 30 day period.
9.6 No Outlet may be opened until such time as HOB reasonably agrees that all construction has been satisfactorily completed, and all employees have been trained, the Outlet is ready for opening in all other respects (including signboards, inventory, uniforms, fixtures and equipment), certificates of insurance have been furnished in accordance with Section 14, you are in compliance with all the terms of this Agreement, including those set forth in Section 12, and all items contained in HOB's Opening Checklist (contained in the Confidential Operating Manual) have been completed to HOB's satisfaction. You acknowledge that any opening for business prior to satisfaction of all of the above conditions will be seriously detrimental to the financial prospects of the Outlet and will cause irreparable damage to HOB's goodwill and reputation.
9.7 If you lease the Outlet, the lease will be subject to HOB's reasonable approval and will have a term, or have options to renew, which in total are equal to or greater than the License Term and will provide that;
A. On termination of this Agreement, for any reason provided for in this Agreement, HOB its designee will have the option for 30 days to assume your remaining lease obligations without accruing any liability regarding the lease prior to the effective date of any assignment, or HOB will have the right to execute a new lease for the remaining term on the same terms and conditions;
B. Copies of all notices of default under the lease will be sent to HOB;
C. In the event of your default under the lease, HOB or its designee will have an
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opportunity to cure such default and assume your remaining obligations under the lease, but will not have any obligation to do so; and
D. All signs, advertising, logos or other forms or insignia pertaining to the System be removed from the premises demised under the lease in the event neither you, HOB nor its designee is the tenant under the lease upon termination of this Agreement.
9.8 If you own the Outlet and the Outlet is (or is to be) mortgaged, the mortgage will be subject to HOB's reasonable approval and will provide that:
A. On termination of this Agreement, for any reason provided for in this Agreement, HOB or its designee will have the option for 30 days to assume your mortgage obligations without accruing any liability regarding the mortgage prior to the effective date of any assignment, or HOB will have the right to execute a new mortgage for the remaining term on the same terms and conditions;
B. Copies of all notices of default under the mortgage will be sent to HOB;
C. In the event of your default under the mortgage, HOB or its our designee will have an opportunity to cure such default and assume your remaining obligations under the mortgage, but will not have any obligation to do so; and
D. All signs, advertising, logos or other forms or insignia pertaining to the House of Bread System be removed from the premises demised under the mortgage in the event neither you, HOB nor its designee is the owner of the property mortgaged or upon termination of this Agreement.
SECTION 10 - MAINTENANCE AND UPGRADING OF OUTLET
10.1 Subject to the terms of this Section and particularly Subsection 10.2, you will at all times comply with all of HOB's standards, specifications, processes, procedures, requirements and instructions regarding the Outlet's physical facilities, including the layout of furnishings and fixtures, at which you are permitted by HOB to render, store, handle, or transport approved services or products. You will maintain the Outlet and any parking areas in good and safe condition.
10.2 You will remodel or upgrade the Outlet at your cost in accordance with HOB's standards and at our request at any renewal of this Agreement. You will also pay the cost of adding equipment and altering the Outlet for required services or products, which requires you to market pursuant to Subsection 12.5. YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT AN ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT MAY BE REQUIRED RELATED TO THIS SUBSECTION.
10.3 HOB agrees that it will not require remodeling or upgrading according to standards that
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exceed those applied to other Outlets in the market nearest your Outlet. The Outlets in the nearest market will be considered as a whole, and you may not avoid your obligations under this Section by comparing your Outlet to any single Outlet in the nearest market.
SECTION 11 -CONFIDENTIALOPERATING MANUAL
11.1 You will acknowledge receipt of a copy of the House of Bread Confidential Operating Manual (the "Manual"). The Manual will at all times remain the sole property of HOB. You agree to immediately return the Manual to HOB at the expiration or sooner termination of this Agreement.
11.2 You will at all times treat the contents of the Manual as confidential and will not copy or otherwise reproduce, in whole or in part or in any way make the contents of the Manual available to any person other than those persons employed by you to whom disclosure is necessary to enable you to operate the Outlet under the terms of this Agreement.
11.3 House of Bread may revise the Manual. The revisions presently contemplated by HOB include changes with respect to:
11.4
A. Advertising and promotions;
B. Equipment and supplies;
C. Employee uniforms;
D. Internal and external design and layout of the Outlet;
E. Accounting and reporting systems and forms;
F. Insurance requirements;
G. Operating procedures; H. Services; and
I. Products and recipes.
11.4 You agree to operate the Outlet in accordance with the Manual and to be responsible for assuring strict compliance with the standards, specifications, requirements and instructions presently set forth in the Manual and any subsequent amendments and supplements. Failure to comply with the standards set forth in the Manual will constitute a material breach of this Agreement.
SECTION 12 - FRANCHISEE'S DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS
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12.1 You will, consistent with the terms of this Agreement, diligently develop the business of the Outlet and use your best efforts to market and promote the required services and products.
12.2 Subject to the terms of this Agreement, including Subsections 10.2 and 11.4, during the License Term, you will strictly comply with all present and future standards, specifications, processes, procedures, requirements, and instructions of HOB regarding the operation of the business and you must comply with the following requirements;
A. You, or a fully trained and qualified operating manager, must devote full time to the management and operation of the Outlet.
B. You or your manager and certain key employees at the Outlet must attend and complete all programs and seminars at locations as HOB may reasonably require, and you will pay all salary and other expenses of persons attending.
HOB will provide you or your operating manager and 1 employee with an initial training program. Attendance by you or your operating manager (if any) is compulsory and must be satisfactorily completed at least 2 weeks prior to the opening of your Outlet.
C. Any additional required service or product introduced into the System by HOB must be offered for sale on a continuing basis at the Outlet at the time and in the manner required by HOB.
D. No service and product, except approved services or products, may be offered for sale at or from the Outlet.
E. Only signs, advertising and promotional material, services, equipment, supplies, uniforms, furnishings, and fixtures that meet HOB's standards and specifications will be used at the Outlet.
F. All equipment, signs, products, supplies and other items necessary to add new required services or products must be acquired, installed and utilized, and the marketing of new services and products must begin at the Outlet as reasonably required by HOB.
G. Equipment, signs, services, products, supplies and other items must be added, eliminated, substituted and modified at the Outlet as soon as practicable in accordance with changes in HOB's specifications and requirements.
H. The Outlet and everything located at the Outlet must be maintained in first-class condition and must be kept clean, neat and sanitary. The Outlet must be adequately lighted and operated in a clean, wholesome and sanitary manner consistent with HOB's requirements. All maintenance, repairs and replacements reasonably requested by HOB or
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needed in connection with the Outlet must be promptly made. All employees must be clean and neat in appearance.
I. No alterations of the Outlet materially affecting the image of the Outlet may be
made except at HOB's request or approval, and any alterations must strictly conform to specifications and requirements established or approved by HOB.
J. The Outlet and its business must comply with all applicable laws, ordinances, rules,
regulations and other requirements.
K. Advertising materials, which are by HOB for use by you, may be used only in the manner and during the period specified by HOB.
L. The Outlet must be open for business at least Monday-Saturday for the first month and then every day during the License Term. The minimum hours of operation shall be 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Or such later time as may be permitted or such earlier time as may be required by applicable licensing laws and local conditions) or other hours reasonably approved by HOB. However, a request for a Sunday closure may be submitted in writing verifying that remaining open results in a loss of income to the franchisee. Days of closure shall include Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, and days the Outlet is closed for repairs pursuant to Section 16. Hours of operation must be posted.
M. The employees, the equipment and supplies, the inventory and other items on hand at the Outlet, must be at all times sufficient to efficiently meet the anticipated volume of business.
N. All debts and taxes arising in connection with the Outlet and its business, except those duly contested in a bona fide dispute, must be paid when due including debts payable to your landlord.
O. All necessary and appropriate measures must be taken to avoid an unsatisfactory or equivalent safety, sanitation or health rating at any time from any governmental agency or authority, that conditions or practices disapproved by any such agency or authority must be promptly corrected, except that, with HOB's prior approval, you may contest the action as being arbitrary, capricious, unfair and unwise.
P. All dealing and transactions with customers and suppliers must be fair and honest.
12.3 In prescribing standards, specifications, processes, procedures, requirements or
instructions under Subsection 12.2 or any other provision of this Agreement, HOB will assist in local market research and provide guidance in determining the prices charged by you for services or products of any kind. HOB will not have control over the day-to-day managerial operations of the Outlet. You are free to establish your own prices within our
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guidelines.
12.4 HOB and our representatives will have the right during business hours, to enter and inspect the Outlet and all other facilities used for service or storage, sale and transportation of any approved products. HOB and our representatives will have the right to have you display franchise available cards in a conspicuous place in the bakery. HOB and our representatives will have the right to discuss with you or other people you may designate, all matters that may pertain to compliance with this Agreement and with HOB's standards, specifications, requirements, instructions and procedures and to take photographs of the Outlet. HOB and our representatives will have the right to have any of HOB's required services rendered by any employee at your Outlet. You will in all respects cooperate with HOB's rights under this Subsection provided that our exercise of these rights will not unreasonably interfere with conduct of your business.
12.5 On advance notice of at least 3 months, HOB, in our sole discretion may specify a new service or product as a required service or product. The new service or product will not be deemed a required service or product if you demonstrate to HOB's reasonable satisfaction that:
A. A substantial capital improvement not contemplated by this Agreement or in the Manual, is required, thereby resulting in a material hardship to you; and
B. A material reduction in sales or profitability would result therefrom.
On advance notice of at least 3 months, franchisee may submit a written request to offer a new service or product. You must submit a comprehensive description of the item and include a cost analysis with a projected sales forecast for the item. HOB will approve or not approve the item in their sole discretion within 30 days or you may offer the item for sale.
12.6 HOB agrees not to require compliance with the provisions of this Section to the extent that it does not require such compliance by all Outlets, taken as a whole, operating in the market nearest the Outlet.
12.7 You agree that during the License Term and for 3 years after the expiration and termination of this Agreement that you will supply to HOB your home address and telephone number which HOB is required by law to include in its offering circular.
12.8 If you are an individual, you or an individual, must directly supervise the franchised business on its premises. If you are a corporation, or if you have in HOB's sole judgment, insufficient experience in a business similar to the House of Bread franchise or experience in business management in general, then you will nominate an operating partner or manager having required experience who will have direct responsibility for all operations of the Outlet. Any change in the operating partner or manager will be subject to the approval of HOB. The operating partner or manager will be the correspondent referred to in Subsection 22.9.
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SECTION 13 - PURCHASE OF EQUIPMENT, INVENTORY AND SUPPLIES
13.1 You will have the right to purchase directly from any manufacturer or supplier the equipment and products required for the operation of the Outlet except wheat berries and Aloha's information system designed specifically for HOB. However, you may purchase the wheat berries manufactured by Wheat Montana and the information system designed specifically for HOB by Aloha from any supplier of your choice. The names and addresses of HOB's required and recommended manufactures and suppliers are in the Manual.
13.2 The standards and specifications for equipment, supplies, or other products required by HOB are in the Manual. You are required to follow HOB's standards and specifications when purchasing all equipment, supplies, or other products required for the operation of the Outlet.
13.3 If you desire to purchase the required equipment, supplies, or other products from a manufacturer or supplier not approved by HOB, you will provide HOB with all information regarding the manufacturer or supplier you wish approved which is reasonably requested by HOB. On HOB's request, the manufacturer or supplier may be required to provide HOB with samples of the equipment, products, or other supplies you wish to purchase. Any tests required by HOB to determine whether the equipment, products, or other supplies meet our standards and specifications will be performed by or under the direction of HOB but at the cost of the manufacturer or supplier you wish approved. On the completion of any tests, HOB will determine whether the goods are of sufficient quality, and whether the manufacturer or supplier possesses adequate capacity and facilities to supply your needs in a reliable manner. HOB will then promptly advise you and the manufacturer or supplier as to approval and of the basis for our decision. HOB will not be required to approve sources of equipment, products, or other supplies which do not meet our standards and specifications or which constitute or embody trade secrets of HOB.
13.4 HOB may review the quality of the equipment, products, and other supplies produced or supplied by approved manufacturers or suppliers (and their capacity and facilities), and will have the right to monitor the production, use and ultimate disposition of items bearing the Marks. On the basis of any review and monitoring, HOB may remove manufacturers or suppliers from the list of approved sources. In this event, HOB will promptly advise you.
SECTION 14 - INSURANCE AND INDEMNIFICATION
14.1 You will, upon commencement of the License Term, purchase and at all times maintain in full force and effect:
A. Workers' compensation insurance in amounts prescribed by law;
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B. Fire and lightning, extended coverage, theft, vandalism and malicious mischief, and sprinkler leakage insurance on the Outlet and all fixtures, equipment, supplies and other property used in the operation of the Outlet, for not less than 80% of the cash value of the same, except that an appropriate deductible clause will be permitted;
C. Comprehensive general liability insurance and product liability insurance coverage in such amounts and upon such terms as may from time to time be customary for bakery businesses located in your Territory, but not less than $2,000,000.00, insuring both you and House of Bread Franchising against all claims, suits, obligations, liabilities, and damage, including attorneys' fees, based upon or arising out of actual or alleged personal injuries or property damage relating to the use or condition of the Outlet; and,
D. Such additional insurance as may be required by the terms of any lease or mortgage for the Outlet.
The liability insurance afforded by the policy or policies will not be limited in any way by reason of any insurance that may be maintained by HOB.
14.2 All policies of insurance required under this Section will be with responsible companies qualified to do business and in good standing in the state where the Outlet is located, and will be in a form reasonably satisfactory to HOB. Prior to opening for business you will furnish to HOB certificates issued by each of your insurers indicating that all premiums due have been paid, that all required insurance is in full force and effect and that the insurance will not be terminated or changed without at least 30 days' prior written notice from the insurer to HOB. New certificates evidencing renewal of insurance will be furnished at least 30 days prior to the date of expiration of each policy. Within 5 days of any request by HOB, you will deliver a copy of all insurance policies to HOB for examination.
14.3 If you fail to obtain or maintain adequate insurance, HOB may, at its election and sole discretion, obtain insurance for and in your name. Within 5 days of any written request by HOB, you will pay all costs of obtaining adequate insurance.
14.4 You will indemnify, defend and hold HOB harmless against all claims, demands, losses, damages (including punitive damages), costs, suits, judgments, penalties, expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees and amounts paid in settlement or compromise) and liabilities of any kind, whether or not ultimately determined to be meritorious (and including damages suffered by you or any of your property), collectively, "Damages", arising directly or indirectly out of or in connection with the construction, operation, maintenance or occupancy of the Outlet, except to the extent that such liabilities arise from the gross negligence or willful acts of HOB.
14.5 All fixtures, equipment, signs, merchandise, supplies, and other property on or about the
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Outlet will be at your sole risk and hazard, and if they are destroyed or damaged in any way, no part of the loss or damage is to be paid by HOB except to the extent caused by HOB's gross negligence or willful acts.
SECTION 15 - TRADEMARKS AND TRADE SECRETS
15.1 You recognize and acknowledge HOB's exclusive ownership of and rights in HOB's current and future Marks and in all related practices, procedures, methods and devices. All goodwill now or in the future associated with or relating to the Marks will accrue directly and exclusively to the benefit and is the property of HOB. Nothing contained in this Agreement will be construed to entitle you any right, title or interest in or the Marks or the goodwill now or in the future associated with them, other than the rights and license expressly granted in this Agreement.
15.2 You represent, warrant and agree that you will not:
A. Directly or indirectly contest or aid in contesting, either during the term of this Agreement or following its termination, the validity or ownership of the Marks; or
B. Take any action in derogation of HOB's claimed rights whether now existing or later obtained.
15.3 You agree to use only HOB's existing or future Marks, and related practices, systems, procedures and methods in connection with the promotion and operation of the Outlet, and only in accordance with the procedures established by HOB.
15.4 You will cause HOB's Marks to be reproduced exactly and accurately.
15.5 With the exception of the registration of a "d/b/a" or a fictitious name certificate in connection with the operation of the Outlet, you will not register or attempt to register the Marks in your own name.
15.6 You will immediately inform HOB of any suspected, known or threatened infringement, piracy or challenge to the Marks, trade secrets, methods and procedures used in the System. You will assist and cooperate with in taking action, at HOB's expense, as HOB deems appropriate to protect the System.
15.7 Immediately upon the expiration or sooner termination of this Agreement, you will;
A. Cease and forever abstain from using any of the Marks;
B. Take all actions necessary to cancel any d/b/a or fictitious name registration containing any of the Marks; and
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C. Furnish HOB evidence satisfactory to HOB of compliance with the foregoing obligations within 30 days after any expiration or sooner termination.
15.8 You acknowledge that you took no part in creating or developing, no prior knowledge of, and no rights or claims in or to, any element of the System. You agree that all materials loaned or made available to you will be kept confidential by you and will remain the property of HOB. You will not disclose, exhibit or reproduce any confidential element of the System which becomes known to you through HOB in any manner, except to those persons employed by you to whom disclosure must be made to enable you to operate the Outlet under the terms of this Agreement. After the expiration or sooner termination of this Agreement, neither you and your employees, nor any of your officers, directors, shareholders if you are incorporated, will disclose, exhibit or reproduce any confidential information or trade secrets to any corporation, association, partnership or person. You recognize that all of the existing or future Marks, related practices, systems, procedures and methods are trade secrets, that HOB has made a substantial investment in trade secrets and that disclosure of the trade secrets is prohibited. You agree to cause your employees to execute proprietary information agreements containing the provisions of this Subsection and any confidentiality agreements if requested by HOB.
15.9 Except as specifically disclosed in the Franchise Offering Circular, HOB represents and warrants to the best of HOB's knowledge that the Marks do not violate or infringe upon any rights of others.
SECTION 16 - CONDEMNATION AND CASUALTY
16.1 You will promptly advise HOB upon your receipt of a notice of default or termination under your lease or mortgage, and will promptly provide HOB a copy of the notice. You will also give HOB notice of any proposed taking of the Outlet or any portion thereof through the exercise of the power of eminent domain at the earliest possible time. If the Outlet or a substantial part thereof is to be taken, the Outlet may be relocated within the area specified in Exhibit A, or elsewhere with HOB's written approval in accordance with our relocation procedures. If you open a new outlet at another location in accordance with HOB's standards and general specifications within one year or of the closing of the old Outlet, the new Outlet will be deemed to be the Outlet licensed under this Agreement.
If a condemnation, lease termination or mortgage default takes place and a new Outlet does not, for any reason, (other than those specified in Section 9) become the Outlet as provided in this Subsection then the License will terminate upon notice by HOB,
16.2 If the Outlet is damaged, you will expeditiously repair the damage. If the damage or repair requires closing the Outlet, you will immediately notify HOB in writing, and will:
A. Relocate the Outlet as provided in Subsection 16.1; or
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B. Repair or rebuild the Outlet in accordance with HOB's then existing standards and general specifications, and reopen the Outlet for continuous business operations as soon as practicable (but in any event within 12 months after closing the Outlet), giving HOB 30 days' advance notice of the date of reopening.
If the Outlet is not (or, in the opinion of HOB cannot be) reopened in accordance with this Section, or relocated pursuant to Subsection 16.1, the License will terminate upon notice to you.
16.3 The License Term will not be extended by any interruption in the Outlet's operations, except for an act of God that results in the Outlet being closed for a reasonable time period. You must apply for any extension within 30 days following the reopening of the Outlet. Except as provided in Subsection 4.3, no event during the License Term will excuse you from paying Royalty Fees or Advertising Fees as provided in this Agreement.
SECTION 17 - RESTRICTIONS ON COMPETITION
17.1 During the term of this License and Agreement, or any extensions or renewals and for a period of 2 years following expiration or termination of the License and this Agreement, you will not directly or indirectly, through corporations, or through partnerships, trusts, associations, joint ventures or other unincorporated businesses, perform any services for, engage in or acquire, be an employee of, have any financial, beneficial or equity interest in, or have any interest based on the profits or revenues of, any business similar to the franchised business, except for other outlets franchised by HOB or its affiliates, within 10 miles of any House of Bread Outlet.
17.2 Nothing in this Section will prevent any active officer of yours or member of your family either individually or collectively, from owning not more than a total of 5% of the stock of any company, which is subject to the reporting requirements of Sections 11 or Subsection 14(D) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934.
17.3 You will not at any time employ or otherwise interfere with the employment relationship of any person who is employed by HOB.
17.4 If any court having jurisdiction to determine the validity or enforceability of this Section determines that, strictly applied, it would be invalid or unenforceable, the definition of "similar business" or the time or geographical provisions of this Section will be deemed modified to the extent necessary (but only to that extent) so that such restrictions as modified, will be valid and enforceable.
17.5 You acknowledge that as a HOB franchisee, you will have access to HOB's trade secrets and confidential practices and therefore be in a unique position to use the special
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knowledge you will have gained while a franchisee. You acknowledge that a breach of the covenants contained in this Section will be deemed to threaten immediate and substantial irreparable injury to HOB. Accordingly, you agree that HOB will have the right, without prior notice to you; to obtain immediate injunctive relief without limiting any other rights or remedies.
17.6 In the event that you are not an individual, this Section will also apply to the officers,
directors, stockholders, trustees, beneficiaries and/or principals of you, the franchisee, and any persons controlled by, controlling or under common control with you.
SECTION 18 - TERMINATION OF LICENSE
18.1 Termination by you.
If you are in compliance with this Agreement and HOB breaches this Agreement and fails to cure the breach within 30 days after a written notice of the breach is delivered to HOB by you, you may terminate the License and Agreement, effective 10 days after the delivery to HOB of a notice of termination. There are no other provisions in this Agreement that grants you the right to terminate the License and Agreement.
Should you terminate the License and Agreement in compliance with this Subsection, you are required to comply with the termination procedures as set forth in Subsection 18.4.
18.2 Termination by HOB without Notice.
Unless HOB promptly, after discovery of the relevant facts, notifies you to the contrary in writing, the License and this Agreement will immediately terminate without notice (or in the event notice is required by law, immediately upon the giving of such notice or at the earliest time thereafter permitted by applicable law) in the event that:
A. No site has been designated and accepted pursuant to Subsection 9.1;
B. A permanent or temporary receiver or trustee for the Outlet or all or substantially all of your property is appointed by any court, or any such appointment is consented to or not opposed through legal action by you, or you make a general assignment for the benefit of your creditors or you make a written statement to the effect that you are unable to pay your debts as they become due, or a levy or execution is made on the License, or an attachment or lien remains on the Outlet for 30 days unless the attachment or lien as being duly contested in good faith by you and HOB is advised;
C. You lose possession or the right of possession of all or a significant part of the Outlet through condemnation, casualty, lease termination or mortgage foreclosure and the
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Outlet is not relocated or reopened as provided in Section 16;
D. You contest in any court or proceeding the validity of, or HOB's ownership of, any
of the Marks;
E. A breach of Section 19 (Assignment) occurs; or
F. You are a corporation and any action is taken which purports to merge, consolidate, dissolve or liquidate you without HOB's prior written consent.
G. If House of Bread elects to return the total franchise fee, then you will be required to completely de-identify the bakery as a House of Bread franchise. However, you may continue operating your bread store with the production schedules acquired during the contract term.
18.3 Termination by HOB With Notice.
The License and this Agreement will terminate on notice under certain circumstances as provided in Subsections 6.3, 9.5 and Sections 12, 14 and 16. The License will terminate on the termination date specified in any notice by HOB to you (without any further notice of termination unless required by law), provided
that:
A. The notice is hand-delivered or mailed at least 30 days (or any longer period as may be required by law) in advance of the termination date;
B. The notice reasonably identifies one or more breaches or defaults in your obligations or performance under this Agreement or the Manual;
C. The notice specifies the manner in which the breach(es) or default(s) may be remedied; and
D. The breach(es) and default(s) are not fully remedied before, or as of, the termination date specified in the notice.
The period given to remedy breaches and defaults will, if permitted by law, be 10 days instead of 30 days if you will have engaged in repeated breaches or defaults under this Agreement within the preceding 24 months for which you have received notice of termination and termination failed to take effect because the breaches or defaults were remedied. The period will be extended if the breach cannot reasonably be cured in such 10 or 30 days, provided that:
A. You have taken all steps to completion towards a cure that is possible within such 10-or 30-day period;
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B. You diligently prosecute a cure to completion; and
C. Such period will in no event be extended by more than 60 days.
18.4 Effect of Termination.
Should this Agreement or the License expire or be terminated by any party and for any reason, all rights and obligations between you and HOB under this Agreement will terminate, except for Subsections 6.2, 11.1, 11.2, and Section 15 and 17 and Subsection 18.8. In an instance of expiration or termination, you will cease to be a licensed participant in the System, and you will:
A. Promptly pay HOB all amounts owing by you based on operations of the Outlet through the date of termination plus interest at the lower of (i) 12% per annum; or (ii) the highest rate permitted by law;
B. Immediately discontinue the use of all Marks, signs, structures, forms of advertising, telephone listings and service, the Manual, and all materials and products of any kind which are identified or associated with the System and subject to Subsection 18.5, return all these materials and products to HOB and, at HOB's request, assign your telephone number to House of Bread;
C. Make no representation nor state that you are in any way approved, endorsed or licensed by HOB or associated or identified with HOB or the System in any manner;
D. Immediately take all steps necessary to amend or terminate any registration or filing of any d/b/a or fictitious name or any other registration or filing containing the Marks so as to delete the Marks and all references to anything associated with the System;
E. Provide HOB the option to purchase required by Section 20; and
F. Comply with the provisions of Subsections 15.7 and 17,1.
18.5 If, within 30 days after termination of this Agreement by HOB, you fail to remove all displays of the Marks from the Outlet, which are identified or associated with the System, HOB may enter the Outlet to effect removal. In this event, HOB will not be charged with trespass nor be accountable or required to pay for any displays or materials.
18.6 If, within 30 days after termination you have not taken all steps necessary to amend or terminate any registration or filing of any fictitious name or any other registration or filing containing the Marks, you hereby irrevocably appoint HOB as your true and lawful attorney for you, and in your name, place and stead and on your behalf, to take action as may be necessary to amend or terminate all registrations and filings, this appointment
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being coupled with an interest to enable HOB to protect the System.
18.7 Termination of this Agreement will not affect, modify or discharge any claims, rights, causes of action or remedies which HOB may have against you, whether such claims or rights arise before or after termination.
SECTION 19 - ASSIGNMENT
19.1 General.
None of your rights under this Agreement or the License granted, all of which are personal in nature, may be the subject of any pledge, lien, levy, attachment, or security arrangement, or acquired through execution, foreclosure, or like action. None of your rights or obligations under this Agreement or the License granted is assignable or transferable (including by will, declaration of or transfer in trust or the laws of intestate succession) without HOB's prior written consent and compliance in all other respects with the terms of this Section. If you are a general partnership, limited partnership or corporation, no initial personal interest in the general partnership, limited partnership, or corporation is assignable or transferable without HOB's prior written consent and compliance in all other respects with the terms of this Section. HOB will not unreasonably withhold consent. Any purported action contrary to this Section will be a material breach of this Agreement and will be void.
With and after each valid assignment of this Agreement pursuant to this Section, the assignee or assignees will be deemed to be you, the franchisee, under this Agreement and will be bound by and liable for all of your existing and future obligations. No stockholder in any corporation which becomes the franchisee will have any rights under this Agreement by reason of his, her or its stock ownership, and the name of such corporation will not include any of the Marks.
19.2 Conditions to Assignments and Transfers.
No transfer or assignment of this Agreement will be approved by HOB or be effective unless and until:
A. There be no default in the performance or observance of any of your obligations under this Agreement or any other agreement with HOB
B. You have settled all outstanding accounts with HOB, and you and every principal of you, the franchisee, have executed a general release of HOB and all principals of HOB from all claims that may be brought by you or any principal
C. The proposed transferee pays HOB a Transfer Fee in the amount of $5,000.00,
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unless the transferee is;
1. A corporation of which you are the majority stockholder, or a child, parent, sibling or spouse of yours, in which case no Transfer Fee will be required, or
2. Another franchisee of the HOB, in which case the Transfer Fee will be $500.00.
D. The proposed transferee will execute a separate Franchise Agreement with HOB, using our then current form of Franchise Agreement, and the proposed transferee will execute an Acknowledgment of Receipt of a then current copy of our Uniform Franchise Offering Circular.
E. The proposed transferee will pay for, attend and satisfactorily complete the training program for new franchisees unless,
1. The transferee is a current franchisee in good standing in the System, or
2. The transferee is and has been a manager for a period of one year or more of an Outlet in good standing.
F. The individual proposed transferee, or the stockholders, partners or trustees and beneficiaries of a proposed corporate, partnership or trust transferee, will each execute a personal guarantee, jointly and severally guaranteeing the performance of the proposed transferee's obligations.
G. The proposed transferee will have demonstrated to HOB's satisfaction that he or she in all respects our standards applicable to new franchisees regarding experience, personal and financial reputation and stability, willingness and ability to devote his or her best efforts to the operation of the franchised business, and any other conditions as HOB may reasonably apply in evaluating new franchisees. HOB must be provided all information about the proposed transferee as we may reasonably require. Because of the confidential information available to a franchisee, no assignment to a competitor of HOB will be permitted.
H. The parties to the proposed transaction will have entered a binding agreement subject only to the rights of HOB. HOB will be furnished a copy of this binding agreement (a "Purchase Offer"), and HOB must waive in writing its rights under Section 20. You will advise each prospective transferee of this provision and the other terms of this Agreement.
19.3 If you are an individual and you desire to transfer your rights under this Agreement to a corporation, partnership or trust which you will newly form and of which you will be a majority shareholder, partner, trustee, beneficiary and/or an executive officer, you may do so only if:
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A. Your name remains on this Agreement and the corporation, partnership or trust is added as a co-Franchisee;
B. You continue to devote your best efforts to manage the operations of the franchised business unless you have a operational partner or manager approved by HOB and who will be incorporated into the terms of the franchise agreement and disclosure documents;
C. The corporation's, partnership's or trust's activities are confined exclusively to operating the franchised business;
D. The corporation, partnership, trust and all officers sign an agreement with HOB assuming jointly and severally all your obligations under this Agreement; and
E. The stock certificates, certificated units of partnership or certificated beneficial interests of the corporation, partnership or trust will bear the following legend:
"The (shares of capital stock) (partnership interest) (beneficial interest) represented by this certificate are subject to the terms and conditions set forth in that certain House of Bread Franchise Agreement dated April 16, 2004 between the (Corporation) (Partnership) (Trust) and House of Bread Franchising, Inc. a copy of which is on file in the principal office of the (Corporation) (Partnership) (Trust) and a copy of which will be provided to the holder of record hereof upon written request without charge."
It is expressly understood that the assumption of your obligation by any corporation, partnership or trust does not limit your personal obligations under this Agreement, and that you and the corporation, partnership or trust will be jointly and severally liable.
19.4 Upon the death of an individual Franchisee, the rights granted by this Agreement may pass (without payment of any Transfer Fee) to the next of kin or legatees, provided that your legal representatives will within 120 calendar days of your death apply in writing to HOB for the right to transfer to the next of kin or legatee your rights under this Agreement. HOB will not unreasonably withhold our permission so long as the proposed transferees meet each of the requirements set forth in Subsection 19.2 without regard to Subsection 19.2(C).
19.5 Any attempt by you to transfer any of your rights or interest under this Agreement or the License, without having received HOB's prior written consent will constitute a material breach of this Agreement. However, if you die and your personal representative does not desire to sell the Outlet, and if under controlling local law your interest in the Outlet, the License and Agreement are distributable to heirs or legatees who are members of his or her immediate family and who otherwise would qualify as assignees, then, such attempted assignment by operation of law or will, will not be deemed in violation of this Agreement,
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provided that such heirs or legatees accept the conditions imposed on otherwise permitted assignees.
19.6 You will not have the right to grant a subfranchise.
19.7 HOB may assign its rights under this Agreement without notice to you.
SECTION 20 - OPTION TO PURCHASE
20.1 Unless otherwise explicitly provided by this Agreement, HOB will be entitled to exercise the rights provided in this Section immediately upon:
A. The expiration without renewal or the termination for any reason of the License or this Agreement;
B. Any breach, default or other event that gives HOB the right to terminate the License or this Agreement; or
C. The receipt by HOB of a copy of a Purchase Offer.
20.2 Upon any event described in Subsection 20.1, HOB will have the option to purchase all of your rights, title and interest in the Outlet, and all its improvements, furniture, fixtures, equipment and products, and all of your accounts, contract rights, customer and vendor lists, work in progress and other business assets.
20.3 The purchase price for assets itemized in Subsection 20.2 will be the current fair market value if Subsection 20.1A or 20. IB is applicable or the price specified in any written purchase offer received by you if Subsection 20.1C is applicable. If you and HOB cannot agree on fair market value within a reasonable time, an independent appraiser will be designated by each of us and an average of the 2 appraised values will be binding. Appraised values will exclude any and all consideration for goodwill or going concern value created by the Marks and business system licensed to you.
If HOB elects to exercise any option to purchase provided in this Subsection, HOB will have the right to set off all amounts due from you under the Franchise Agreement and the cost of the appraisal, if any, against any payment.
20.4 HOB will notify you of our intention to exercise its rights to purchase (a "Notice of Intent") within 30 days following an event described in Subsection 20.1. The Notice of Intent will specify the assets to be purchased, and the fair current market value as determined by HOB. You will have 14 days following receipt of HOB's Notice of Intent to object to any of the prices specified therein, and any disputes over pricing will be resolved through appraisal as specified Subsection 20.3. If HOB declines to exercise its
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rights under this Section within 30 days, you may thereafter, sell or dispose of the franchised business to a third party, but not at a lower price nor on more favorable terms than set forth in the Purchase Offer, if any, and subject to the prior written permission of HOB and satisfaction of the other conditions to assignment set forth in Section 19.
20.5 The purchase and sale contemplated in this Section will be consummated as soon as practicable. Following the delivery of a Notice of Intent as specified in Subsection 20.4, HOB or our designee will have the right to take possession of the Outlet and to carry on and develop the franchised business for the exclusive benefit of HOB or its designee.
20.6 In the event that HOB elects not to exercise its option to purchase under this Section, the provisions of Section 19 will apply to any proposed transfer by you.
SECTION 21 - BANKRUPTCY OR INSOLVENCY
You will be deemed in default under this Agreement and all rights granted herein will automatically terminate without notice in the event of the following:
A. You become insolvent, or make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors;
B. You file a petition of bankruptcy, or do not oppose a petition filed against you;
C. You consent to the filing of a receivership or other custodianship for your business assets;
D. You have instituted by or against you a proceeding for a composition with creditors under any state or federal law;
E. You have a final judgment filed against you which remains unsatisfied or of record for 30 days or longer (unless supersedeas bond is filed);
F. You are dissolved;
G. An execution is levied against your franchise or property contained in the Outlet, or a suit to foreclose any lien against the Outlet or equipment is instituted against you and not dismissed within 30 days, provided that this provision will not apply if a supersedeas bond is timely filed; or
H. Your Outlet's property is sold after levy by any sheriff, marshal, or constable. SECTION 22 - MISCELLANEOUS
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22.1 Relationship of Parties.
You neither have nor will you exercise any authority, express, implied or apparent, to act on behalf of or as an agent of HOB, for any purpose, and will take no action which might tend to create an apparent employer-employee or agency relationship between you and HOB. No fiduciary relationship exists between you and HOB. You are, and will remain, an independent contractor responsible for all obligations and liabilities of, and for all loss or damage to, the Outlet and its business and for all claims and demands based on damages or destruction of property or based on injury, illness or death of any person or persons, directly or indirectly arising from or in connection with the operation of the Outlet. HOB does not have the control of the day-to-day managerial operations of the Outlet.
22.2 No Conflict with Other Agreements.
You represent that you are not a party to or subject to agreements that might conflict with the terms of this Agreement and agree not to enter into any conflicting agreements during the License Term.
22.3 Cost of Enforcement.
If either party institutes and prevails entirely or in part in any action at law or in equity against the other party based entirely or in part on the terms of this Agreement, the prevailing party will be entitled to recover from the losing party, in addition to any judgment reasonable attorneys' fees, court costs and all of the prevailing party's expenses in connection with any action at law.
22.4 No Waiver.
No failure, forbearance, neglect or delay of any kind on the part of HOB in connection with the enforcement or exercise of any rights under this Agreement will affect or diminish HOB's right to strictly enforce and take full benefit of each provision of this Agreement at any time, whether at law for damages, in equity for injunctive relief or specific performance, or otherwise. No custom, usage or practice with regard to this Agreement by you or HOB's other franchisees will preclude the strict enforcement of this Agreement in accordance with its literal terms. No waiver by HOB of performance of any provision of this Agreement will constitute or be implied as a waiver of HOB's right to enforce that provision at any future time.
22.5 Entire Agreement; Amendments.
This Agreement, together with any written related agreements and all Exhibits, constitutes the entire understanding and agreement between you and HOB and supersedes all prior understandings, whether oral or written, pertaining to this Agreement, License, System or
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Outlet. No interpretation, change, termination or waiver of any provision of this Agreement, and no consent or approval under this Agreement, will be binding upon you or HOB or effective unless in writing signed by you and HOB's President or Vice President, except that a waiver need be signed only by the party waiving.
22.6 Severability.
If any term or provision of this Agreement or the application thereof to any person, property or circumstances will to any extent be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of this Agreement will be unaffected and will remain in full force and effect and each term and provision will be valid and enforced to the fullest extent permitted by law. Should this prove impractical, HOB will have the option of terminating this Agreement upon written notice to you.
22.7 Governing Law.
This Agreement has been made and accepted in the State of California and it will be interpreted in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of California and any applicable federal and state franchise laws. You hereby consent to jurisdiction in San Luis Obispo, California.
22.8 Arbitration and Mediation.
Except as specifically otherwise provided in this Agreement, and in the event that you or HOB has any dispute relating to this document, there will first be a face-to-face meeting to resolve the dispute. Such meeting shall be held in San Luis Obispo within 30 days or either Franchisor or Franchisee providing written notice of the dispute. Second, after the face-to-face meeting and before any lawsuit or arbitration by any party, the parties shall participate in a non-binding mediation in accordance with the commercial arbitration rules of the American Arbitration Association. Third, if mediation is unsuccessful at resolving the dispute, then the parties shall go to a neutral arbitrator. The arbitrator is to be determined solely and exclusively by arbitration in accordance with the then existing rules of the American Arbitration Association at its office, 3055 Wilshire, Los Angeles, California 90010, subject to the following:
A. You and HOB will select one arbitrator, and the two so designated will select a third arbitrator. If either of us will fail to designate an arbitrator within 7 days after arbitration is requested, then a single arbitrator will be selected by the American Arbitration Association upon application of either you or HOB. Arbitration proceedings will be conducted in accordance with the rules then prevailing of the American Arbitration Association at its Los Angeles office. Judgment upon an award of the majority of the arbitrators will be binding, and will be entered in a court of competent jurisdiction.
B. Nothing herein contained will bar the right of you or HOB to obtain injunctive
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relief against threatened conduct that would violate this Agreement and cause loss or damages.
22.9 Notices.
All notices and other communications provided for in this Agreement must be in writing and will be delivered in person or mailed by certified or other receipted mail, or by Federal Express or U.S. Express Mail for overnight delivery if to you, at your address or, if to HOB at our address, Attention: Chief Operating Officer. You or HOB, by such notice, may change the address to which notices will be sent. Notices delivered in person will be deemed given when delivered and mailed notices will be deemed given 3 days after mailing if by certified or other receipted mail or 1 day after mailing if by Federal Express or U.S. Express Mail. If you are a corporation or more than 1 individual, then you will authorize 1 natural person as correspondent with authority to bind you.
22.10 Certain References.
References to weeks and months mean calendar weeks and calendar months. References to persons mean legal entities as well as natural persons. Whenever the pronoun "he" or "his" is used herein, it refers to masculine, feminine and neuter genders and also singular and plural. Except as otherwise specifically set forth in this Agreement, this Agreement will inure to the benefit of and be binding on you and HOB, our respective heirs, executors, administrators, personal representatives, successors and assigns.
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22.11 Acknowledgment
YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE CONDUCTED AN INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION OF THE HOUSE OF BREAD FRANCHISING SYSTEM AND RECOGNIZE THAT THE BUSINESS VENTURE CONTEMPLATED BY THIS AGREEMENT INVOLVES BUSINESS RISK AND WILL BE LARGELY DEPENDENT UPON THE ABILITY OF YOU AS AN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS PERSON. THE HOB EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS THE MAKING OF, AND YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED, ANY WARRANTY OR GUARANTEE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AS TO THE POTENTIAL VOLUME, PROFITS, OR SUCCESS OF THE BUSINESS VENTURE CONTEMPLATED BY THIS AGREEMENT.
YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE RECEIVED A COPY OF THE COMPLETE HOUSE OF BREAD FRANCHISE AGREEMENT AT LEAST 5 BUSINESS DAYS PRIOR TO THE DATE ON WHICH THIS AGREEMENT WAS EXECUTED. YOU FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU RECEIVED THE DISCLOSURE DOCUMENT REQUIRED BY THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION, ENTITLED, "UNIFORM FRANCHISE OFFERING CIRCULAR" AT LEAST 10 BUSINESS DAYS PRIOR TO THE DATE ON WHICH THIS AGREEMENT WAS EXECUTED.
YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS AGREEMENT; AND THAT HOB HAS ACCORDED YOU AMPLE TIME AND OPPORTUNITY AND HAS ENCOURAGED YOU TO CONSULT WITH ADVISORS OF YOUR OWN CHOOSING ABOUT THE POTENTIAL BENEFITS AND RISKS OF ENTERING INTO THIS AGREEMENT.
This entire Agreement, including corrections, changes, and all attachments and addendums, will only be binding upon HOB when executed or initialed by HOB's President or vice-president.
You and HOB, intending to be legally bound, have duly executed, sealed, and delivered this Agreement in duplicate this day___________2006.
Franchisee Date:
Sheila McCann, President of House of Bread Date:
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PERSONAL GUARANTEES
but without limitation thereto, the monetary obligation of the Franchisee, as well as the confidentiality and non-competition provisions as if each of us were the Franchisee.
GUARANTOR:
FRANCHISEE Date:
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The original documents were scanned as an image. The original file can be downloaded at the link above.