Franchise Agreement
The original documents were scanned as an image. The original file can be downloaded at the link above.
Sample Franchise Agreement
FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
THIS FRANCHISE AGREEMENT is made in Broward County, Florida, as of the
_______________, 20065 by and between ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA, INC., a Florida Corporation, |
(hereinafter called "Franchisor") and_________________________an individual (hereinafter, called
"Franchisee").
RECITALS
Franchisee hereby acknowledges receipt of a ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA Franchise Offering Circular including a copy of this Franchise Agreement, which Franchisee received at the earlier of: 1) the first personal meeting with Franchisor; 2) ten (10) business days prior to the signing of this Franchise Agreement or any related agreement(s); or 3) ten (10) business days before any payment by Franchisee to Franchisor.
This Agreement is for offer and sale of a franchise license for the establishment and operation of | a ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA restaurant, for the retail sale of Pizza, Pasta, Calzones, Sandwiches, Salads, Desserts, Beverages and related products, all as presently designated by Franchisor and as may be improved, further developed, or otherwise modified by Franchisor from time to time.
The distinguishing characteristics of a ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA restaurant include, but are not limited to: the name "ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA;" readily recognizable color schemes, designs, and layouts for the restaurant; specialized paper products, menus and signs, containing logos, trade names, trademarks, and service marks identifying the restaurant; and confidential recipes, operating systems, and methods for preparing, serving, and merchandising the food products and for operating the restaurant (hereinafter collectively the "System").
Franchisee is desirous of obtaining a franchise to operate a ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA restaurant utilizing the concepts, methods, and techniques under the System. Franchisee has submitted an application and other pertinent information, including financial statements, to Franchisor, which fully and truthfully set forth the information therein, and Franchisee has further advised Franchisor of all persons who will hold interests in the franchise.
Franchisee has read this Agreement and understands and accepts the terms, conditions, and covenants contained in this Agreement as being reasonably necessary to maintain Franchisor's standards of qualityA-afld service and the uniformity of those standards at all ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA | restaurants in order to protect and preserve the trademarks and the goodwill associated therewith.
THEREFORE, Franchisor and Franchisee, intending to be legally bound, for and in consideration of the mutual covenants hereinafter following, do mutually covenant and agree:
I. LICENSE, LICENSED MARKS, AND PROTECTED TERRITORY
A. License
Franchisor hereby grants Franchisee the right to use the service mark "ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA" and such other service marks, trademarks, trade names, and copyrights as Franchisor may designate from time to time, and Franchisee is hereby licensed as a participant in the System for the
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operation a ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA restaurant (hereinafter called "Restaurant"). The operation of the Restaurant shall be conducted by Franchisee only at the accepted location (hereinafter called "Franchise Location"). If, at the time of execution of this Agreement, the Franchise Location is not designated as a specific address on Exhibit A, then the Franchisee agrees to execute the ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA Franchise Agreement - Location Acceptance Form, attached hereto as Exhibit A-1, pursuant to the requirements of Section IV of this Agreement.
Franchisee agrees not to open the Restaurant for business to the public without the prior written permission of Franchisor or to change the location of the Restaurant thereafter without the prior written permission of Franchisor.
B. Licensed Marks
Franchisee, in operating the Restaurant, shall use such service marks, trademarks, trade names, commercial symbols and logos (hereinafter the "Proprietary Marks") only in such manner as is specified from time to time by Franchisor. Franchisee's right to use the Proprietary Marks is derived solely from this Agreement and is limited to the conduct of business by Franchisee pursuant to and in compliance with this Agreement. This Agreement confers no goodwill or other interest in the Proprietary Marks upon Franchisee, other than the right to use the Proprietary Marks in the operation of the Restaurant in compliance with this Agreement and all applicable standards, specifications and operating standards, specifications and procedures prescribed by Franchisor from time to time. Franchisee agrees not to contest Franchisor's title in the Proprietary Marks. Any goodwill established in the Proprietary Marks by reason of Franchisee's use of them shall inure to Franchisor's exclusive benefit. Any unauthorized use of the Proprietary Marks by Franchisee shall constitute a breach of this Agreement. All provisions of this Agreement applicable to the Proprietary Marks shall apply to any additional Proprietary Marks hereafter authorized for use by, and licensed to, Franchisee by Franchisor.
Franchisor may seek to obtain federal trademark or service mark registrations for any or all of the Proprietary Marks. There can be no assurance that any such registrations will be granted. There may be similar trademarks or service marks, either registered or not registered, owned by third parties. Such third parties may have rights in such trademarks or service marks that are superior to Franchisor's rights in the Proprietary Marks, thereby restricting the ability of Franchisor to expand the System into certain geographic areas. Franchisor makes no representations concerning the possible rights of such third parties. Franchisee is advised to satisfy itself as to the status of the Proprietary Marks prior to entering into this Agreement.
Franchisee shall use the Proprietary Marks as the sole identification of the Restaurant, provided that Franchisee shall identify himself/herself as the independent owner of the Restaurant in the manner prescribed by Franchisor. Franchisee shall not use the Proprietary Marks as part of any corporate or trade name or with any prefix, suffix or other modifying words, terms, designs or symbols (other than commercial logos licensed to Franchisee hereunder), or in any modified form, nor may Franchisee use any Proprietary Marks in connection with the performance or sale of any unauthorized services or goods or in any other manner not expressly authorized in writing prior to use by Franchisor. Franchisee shall prominently display the Proprietary Marks on such signs, merchandise, paper goods, uniforms, and other articles as designated by Franchisor and only in accordance with Franchisor's instructions. Franchisee shall give such notices of trade and service marks registrations as Franchisor specifies and shall obtain such fictitious or assumed name registrations as may be required under applicable law, all at Franchisee's expense.
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Franchisor shall have the sole right to handle disputes with third parties concerning the System, including, without, limitation, the Proprietary Marks. In that regard:
1) If Franchisee receives notice, or is informed, of: (a) any claim, suit or demand against it on account of any alleged infringement, unfair competition or similar matter by reason of its use of the System in accordance with this Agreement, including, without limitation, its use of the Proprietary Marks, or (b) any claim by any person of any rights in all or any part of the System or in any Proprietary Mark, Franchisee shall notify the Franchisor in writing within ten (10) days of such claim, suit or demand. Franchisee has no right to settle or compromise any such claim, suit, or demand. Franchisor shall have sole discretion to take such action as it deems appropriate (which, except in the case of suit, may include taking no action) and the right to exclusively control any litigation, United States Patent and Trademark Office or other proceeding arising out of any such infringement, challenge or claim or otherwise relating to the System or any Proprietary Mark. Franchisee shall cooperate fully with Franchisor and execute such documents and perform such actions as may, in the judgment of Franchisor, be necessary, appropriate or advisable in the defense of such claims, suits or demands and to protect and maintain the interests of Franchisor in the System and/or in the Proprietary Marks which are the subject of challenge. Franchisor will indemnify Franchisee for all actual damages (other than loss of income) and out-of-pocket expenses incurred by Franchisee in connection with any claim made by any third party for infringement, unfair competition or similar matter arising out of Franchisee's use of the Proprietary Marks or the System; provided, however, the foregoing obligation of Franchisor to reimburse Franchisee exists only if Franchisee has used the name or mark which is the subject of the challenge in strict accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, the Confidential Manual (as hereinafter defined) and any other written procedures, requirements or instructions of Franchisor, has notified Franchisor of the challenge as set forth above, and has otherwise fully cooperated with Franchisor.
2) If Franchisee receives notice, oris informed, of any infringing or unauthorized use of the System, Franchisee shall notify the Franchisor in writing within ten (10) days of such infringing use. Franchisor need not initiate suit against imitators or infringes, nor take any other action to enforce or protect the System.
If it becomes advisable at any time in Franchisor's sole discretion for Franchisor and/or Franchisee to modify or discontinue use of any Proprietary Mark, and/or use one or more additional or substitute trade or service marks, Franchisee agrees to comply with Franchisor's directions to modify or otherwise discontinue the use of such Proprietary Marks within a reasonable time after notice thereof by Franchisor. Franchisor shall not be obligated to compensate Franchisee for any costs incurred by Franchisee in connection with such modification or discontinuance.
Upon expiration or termination of this Agreement, Franchisor may, if Franchisee does not do so, execute in Franchisee's name an abandonment of the use of all Proprietary Marks which have been registered as assumed or fictitious names by Franchisee.
C. Territory
1) No protected or exclusive area or territory is granted by Franchisor to Franchisee during the initial term (and any renewal) of this Agreement. Furthermore, Franchisor and/or its affiliates may open or operate Company-owned or franchised restaurants in similar or dissimilar business, under different trademarks, service marks, and commercial symbols.
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2) Franchisor retains the right, in its sole discretion, to: (a) engage in wholesale operations or service to "Captive Markets," (military bases; schools; hospitals; limited access roads; stadiums; arenas; convention centers; hotels; entertainment parks; airports; bus and train stations; mall food courts; business or industrial contract feeding settings; and similar venues); and (b) distribute or license the manufacture and/or distribution of products, regardless of whether such products are authorized for ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA restaurants, under the Proprietary Marks either licensed hereunder or otherwise held by Franchisor, through grocery stores, retail food stores, the internet, and other channels of distribution.
3) Franchisee acknowledges Franchisor's right and the right of Franchisor's affiliates to develop, operate and franchise similar and/or dissimilar systems, under trademarks, service marks and commercial symbols other than the Proprietary Marks, without offering them to Franchisee.
II. TERM
A. Initial Term
The initial term of this Agreement shall be for a period of ten (10) years, from the date of the execution of this Agreement, unless the lease (which shall also include a sublease) for the Franchise Location, if any, shall be for a shorter period of time, in which event, the initial term of the Franchise Agreement shall be equal to the term of the lease.
B. Renewal Option - Renewal Fees
Franchisee shall have the option to renew the Franchise Agreement for an additional period of ten (10) years, or for such lesser periods as are available under the lease for the Franchise Location, if any. In all cases, renewal shall require that:
1) Franchisee is not in material default or in violation of the Franchise Agreement or any other agreement with Franchisor;
2) Franchisee has received satisfactory inspection reports during the expiring term;
3) Franchisee gives Franchisor written notice of Franchisee's election to renew not less than six (6) months prior to the end of the term then in effect; and
4) Nfto later than sixty (60) days prior to the end of the term then in effect, Franchisee has completed all steps necessary to effectively renew, which may include, but are not necessarily limited to:
(a) execution of the most current form of Franchise Agreement and any ancillary agreements then customarily used by Franchisor in the grant or renewal of franchises for the operation of Restaurants, which Franchise Agreement shall reflect the then-current royalty rate, advertising fees, and non-competition provisions (with appropriate modifications to reflect the fact that the Franchise Agreement relates to the grant of a renewal franchise);
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(b) Franchisee and Franchisee's owners, if Franchisee is a business organization, executing a general release(s), in a form satisfactory to Franchisor, of any and all claims against Franchisor and its officers, directors, employees, and agents;
(c) Franchisee makes such capital improvements necessary to meet Franchisor's then existing criteria and standards for Restaurants; and
(d) Franchisee pays the renewal fee of $5,000.
If Franchisee does not comply with the conditions for renewal to the satisfaction of Franchisor, in its sole discretion, Franchisee agrees that Franchisor shall have good cause to refuse to renew the Franchise Agreement. Failure or refusal by Franchisee to execute any agreements, instruments and documents required by Franchisor in connection with such renewal within a reasonable time after delivery to Franchisee, shall be deemed an election by Franchisee not to renew the franchise. If local law modifies, alters, or amends all or part of the renewal provisions, then such provisions shall be modified, altered, or amended accordingly, so as to be in full compliance with such local law.
Franchisee's right to renew the franchise is subject to Franchisee's ability to continue to occupy the Franchise Location, or relocating the Restaurant to a mutually acceptable new location, within thirty (30) days after the expiration or termination of the right to occupy the current Franchise Location.
III. FRANCHISE FEE
In consideration of the grant of the franchise license by the Franchisor, the Franchisee agrees to pay a Franchise Fee of $25,000. If the Franchisee later agrees to purchase additional ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA franchises, the Franchise Fee will be reduced as follows:
Secondary Franchise Location $20,000
Additional Franchise Locations $15,000
The Franchise Fee is fully earned by the Franchisor upon the execution of this Agreement and is non-refundable. In the event Franchisee does not submit an acceptable site for the Franchise Location within one hundred eighty (180) days after execution of this Agreement, this Agreement shall be deemed canceled. Franchisor shall have no obligation to refund any portion of the Franchise Fee previously paid.
IV. RESTAURANT SITE SELECTION
A. In the event the site for the Franchise Location has not been accepted by the Franchisor upon execution of this Agreement and entered on Exhibit "A" hereto, it shall be the sole obligation of the Franchisee to locate a site suitable for the operation of the Restaurant within one hundred and eighty (180) days after execution of this Agreement. The site must meet Franchisor's criteria for demographic characteristics, traffic patterns, parking, character of neighborhood, competition from and proximity to other businesses and other ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA Restaurants, the nature of other businesses in proximity to the site, other commercial characteristics and the size, appearance and other physical characteristics of the proposed site. The proposed site must be accepted by the Franchisor prior to Franchisee executing a binding lease or otherwise securing the proposed site. Franchisor will accept or decline a proposed site for the Restaurant within thirty (30) days after
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Franchisor receives from Franchisee a complete site report and any other materials Franchisor requests. The Franchisor's acceptance of a site does not constitute a representation or warranty that the Franchise Location will be profitable or that the Franchisee's sales will attain any predetermined levels. Such acceptance is intended only to indicate that the proposed site does not warrant rejection under Franchisor's minimum criteria for site selection. The Franchisee agrees that the Franchisor's acceptance or rejection of a proposed site shall not impose any liability or obligation on the Franchisor. In the event Franchisee does not submit an acceptable lease within the foregoing One-Hundred Eighty (180) day period, Franchisor may in its sole discretion terminate this Agreement.
B. If the Restaurant site is to be leased directly by Franchisee, the terms and form of Franchisee's lease are subject to Franchisor's prior review and written consent. Franchisor shall have the right to accept or reject the terms of any lease for the Franchise Location. All leases must either have Exhibit "B" hereto attached as a rider or expressly contain the provisions of Exhibit "B." Franchisee shall not execute any lease prior to obtaining Franchisor's written consent, which shall not be unreasonably withheld. Franchisor's failure to reject a lease in writing within thirty (30) days after Franchisee submits such lease shall constitute Franchisor's permission to proceed. Franchisor shall also have the right to require Franchisee to execute such additional documents, which provide for the protection of Franchisor's rights and interests, as Franchisor may require.
C. Franchisee agrees to construct (or renovate) and equip the Restaurant, at Franchisee's sole cost and expense, in a good and workmanlike manner, in conformity with all applicable governmental requirements and in accordance with the plans and specifications acceptable to the Franchisor prior to the start of construction by the Franchisee. Franchisee shall only purchase and use such equipment fixtures and furnishings as Franchisor has designated or shown as acceptable. In that regard, Franchisor may designate by brand name the equipment, including ovens, refrigeration, fountain and dispensing equipment, cash register/computer systems and all other mechanical equipment for use in the Restaurant. At a minimum, exterior signage, identifying the Restaurant shall be no less in size proportionately, than is the square footage of the Restaurant to the entire premises, in the event the Franchised Location occupies only a portion of the entire building, premises, or structure. Interior decor must be as specified in the Confidential Manual. Franchisee shall retain, at Franchisee's expense, an architect or engineer to prepare architectural and mechanical plans and specifications for the Restaurant. Franchisor shall be available to consult with Franchisee on site development and other pre-opening obligations. Franchisee will cause any mechanics' liens, material men's liens or other liens which may be recorded or perfected or which may otherwise attach to all or any portion of the Restaurant as a result of work done by or for the Franchisee to be discharged or released of record or fully bonded, within ten (10) days after notification of the existence of any such lien.
D. Franchisee agrees that the Restaurant shall be completed and open for sales to the public no later than one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of the execution of the lease (hereinafter referred to as the "Specified Opening Date"), unless delayed by causes beyond the reasonable control of Franchisee. In the event Franchisee is not open for sales to the public on the Specified Opening Date, Franchisor shall be entitled to receive from Franchisee, in lieu of the Royalty Franchisor would have received, the sum of Fifty Dollars ($50.00), for each day after the Specified Opening Date during which Franchisee is not open for sales to the public. Franchisor may also terminate this Agreement upon ten (10) day's prior written notice, if the Restaurant is not open for business by the Specified Opening Date. Upon such a termination of this Agreement, Franchisor shall be entitled to keep as liquidated damages and not as a penalty, all amounts Franchisee has previously
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paid to Franchisor, including but not limited to the Franchise Fee, and Franchisor may pursue such other remedies as are available to it at law and in equity. The Specified Opening Date shall be extended for the number of days during which the opening is delayed for causes beyond Franchisee's reasonable control.
E. The Franchise Location shall be used for no purpose other than the operation of a ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA Restaurant, unless otherwise agreed to in writing by Franchisor.
V. TRAINING
Franchisor shall provide an initial training program for Franchisee. If Franchisee is an individual, Franchisee must attend. If Franchisee is a business organization, all owners must attend. In addition, Franchisee's designated general manager and management team must attend, as must Franchisee's spouse, if said spouse will be involved in the operation of the Restaurant. The initial training will be conducted at such place as designated by Franchisor, following execution of this Agreement. Franchisee shall be responsible for all travel, lodging, and subsistence expenses of those persons attending the training session. Such training is to be completed prior to the opening of the Restaurant and will be for a minimum of one hundred sixty (160) hours, or as modified by Franchisor. Franchisor's training program will include an overview of food service industry, on-site food preparation, Restaurant operation, customer service procedures, and management techniques, together with inventory, cost accounting, and general business procedures.
Franchisee acknowledges that it is of paramount importance that Franchisee and its employees or representatives understand the System and therefore, failure to complete Franchisor's initial training program to the satisfaction of Franchisor, shall be grounds for Franchisor to elect to terminate this Agreement. This Agreement is contingent not only upon the Franchisee's satisfactory completion of training, but also upon Franchisee's taking charge of the Restaurant operations after securing Franchisor's consent.
Franchisor may require Franchisee and/or previously trained and experienced personnel to attend periodic refresher courses at locations designated by Franchisor. Franchisee shall be responsible for all travel, lodging and living expenses that Franchisee and each such person incur in connection with any subsequent training program.
Franchisee has the right to request additional training from time to time and Franchisor shall, at its sole discretion, provide such training to Franchisee or to Franchisee's personnel at such times, places, and for such duration as Franchisor deems necessary. Franchisee must pay the cost of such additional training, including the cost of transportation, subsistence, lodging, and the current charge for the services of Franchisor's representative(s), which costs shall be paid in advance or upon receipt of an invoice for such services.
Franchisee specifically agrees that only persons trained by Franchisor shall have overall responsibility for the operation of the Restaurant and that Franchisee will at Franchisee's sole cost and expense; send each such person to Franchisor for training, unless such training is waived by Franchisor.
VI. RESTAURANT OPERATION
In order to maintain uniform standards of operation for all Restaurants and to protect the
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goodwill of Franchisor, it is agreed as follows:
A. Standards
Franchisee acknowledges that each and every detail of the appearance, layout, decor, food products, beverages, paper and plastic goods, materials, and supplies utilized, services offered, and operation of the Restaurant are proprietary in nature and Is important to the Franchisor, as well asftd other ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA franchisees. Franchisee shall comply with all mandatory specifications, standards and operating procedures relating to:
1) type, quality, purity, taste, portions, weight and/or dimensions, ingredients, uniformity, and manner of preparation and sale of food products and beverages sold by the Restaurant;
2) layout, decor, and color scheme of the Restaurant;
3) exterior design and materials;
4) appearance of employees and uniform specifications;
5) appearance, cleanliness, sanitation, standards of services, and operation of the Restaurant;
6) materials, supplies, distributors and suppliers; and
7) hours and days during which the Restaurant will be open for business.
Mandatory specifications, standards, and operating procedures may be prescribed from time to time by Franchisor in the Confidential Operating Manual and Confidential Recipe Manual (hereinafter called "Confidential Manuals"), or otherwise communicated to Franchisee in writing, via electronic mail or through the proprietary Franchise Website and intranet. All references herein to this Agreement shall include all such mandatory specifications, standards, and operating procedures.
B. Confidential Manuals
The requirements of Franchisor's Confidential Manuals, which shall be loaned to Franchisee by Franchisor during the initial term and any renewal of this Agreement, shall govern the operation of the Restaurant. Changes in such requirements may be made by Franchisor from time to time as deemed advisable by Franchisor. Franchisee will operate the Restaurant in accordance with the standards, specifications, and procedures set forth in the Confidential Manuals, will comply with any changes in such standards, specifications, and procedures as may become necessary and desirable from time to time, and will accept as reasonable any modifications, revisions, and additions to the Confidential Manuals which Franchisor, in the exercise of its sole discretion, believes to be necessary and desirable.
C. Maintenance of Exterior and Interior Decor
Franchisee shall at all times maintain the interior and exterior of the Restaurant and the surrounding area in the highest degree of cleanliness, orderliness, and sanitation, and shall also comply with the requirements of the Confidential Manuals regarding the upkeep and decor of the Restaurant. Franchisee shall immediately comply with all orders and regulations of applicable state and local health and safety administrators. Franchisee shall repair, refinish, or paint the exterior and the
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interior of the Restaurant at Franchisee's own expense at such times as reasonably directed by Franchisor or as required by any lease for the Franchise Location.
D. Upkeep of Restaurant
Maintenance and repair of the Restaurant is the sole responsibility of Franchisee. Franchisee shall maintain the signs, equipment, decor, furnishings, fixtures, and all other tangible property in the Restaurant in excellent condition, and shall repair and/or replace any of the equipment and fixtures, which become obsolete or mechanically impaired. Replacement equipment and fixtures shall be of the same type and quality as are being used in the current or then current ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA Restaurants at the time replacement is required and shall comply with Franchisor's requirements and specifications. Remodeling of the Restaurant (including signage), to conform to the current ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA format and style, may be required at the time of renewal of this Agreement, at such time(s) as is required under the terms of any lease for the Franchise Location, or otherwise, at Franchisor's discretion.
In addition to the foregoing, in order to introduce new products or services through all ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA Restaurants, Franchisee may be required to spend additional amounts on new, different or modified equipment or fixtures necessary for Franchisee to offer such new products and/or services.
In the event the Franchise Location is, at any time, to be altered or remodeled, or additional decorations, fixtures, furniture, or equipment are to be installed or substituted, or signs are to be erected or altered, all of such work shall be subject to the prior written consent of Franchisor, and, when completed, shall conform to plans and specifications as previously approved by Franchisor. Franchisor may inspect, but shall not be obligated to inspect, such work at any time to determine that the work is done in accordance and compliance with Franchisor's accepted plans and specifications.
E. Holidays and Hours of Operation
Franchisee shall continuously operate the Restaurant, for the hours and days of the week as specified in the Confidential Manuals, unless different hours have been approved in writing by Franchisor, based upon the circumstances existing for the Franchise Location.
F. Restaurant Supervision
Franchisee, if an individual, or a designated partner if Franchisee is a partnership, or a designated managing officer if Franchisee is a corporation, or designated manager if Franchisee is a limited liability company, shall devote full time (a minimum of 40 hours per week) and attendance, as well as such person's best efforts, to the performance of supervisory and day-to-day Restaurant operational duties. Only a person(s) who is trained to the satisfaction of the Franchisor in the methods and procedures of the System, who shall be physically at the Restaurant during operating hours, shall manage the Restaurant.
G. Franchisee's Sales Efforts
Franchisee shall exert Franchisee's best efforts and abilities to establish, maintain, and increase sales of approved food products under the Proprietary Marks and shall at all times maintain a supply of such food products sufficient to meet public demand.
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H. Restaurant Personnel
If requested by Franchisee, Franchisor will provide Franchisee with advice, assistance regarding the recruiting, and selection of an initial staff for the Restaurant. All personnel employed by Franchisee at the Restaurant shall maintain such standards of sanitation, cleanliness, and demeanor, as Franchisor shall establish. All personnel performing managerial or supervisory functions, all personnel receiving special training and instruction, and all persons employed by Franchisee having access to any of Franchisor's Confidential Information (as herein defined), shall execute Franchisor's form Employment-Non-competition Agreement (Exhibit "C," horoto). Franchisee shall enforce, at its sole expense, such Agreement, when and if so directed by Franchisor.
I. Point of Sale System
Franchisee shall be required to purchase and install at Franchisees expense at the Franchise Location, such computer hardware, required dedicated telephone and power lines, DSL or Cable modem(s), printer(s) and other computer-related accessory and peripheral equipment as meets Franchisor's standards and specifications as specified in the Confidential Manual or otherwise in writing. In such event, Franchisee will be required to provide such assistance and purchase such equipment required by Franchisor to bring such computer system and the Restaurant "on-line" with Franchisor's computer system. Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that Franchisor will have the free and unfettered right to retrieve such data and information directly from Franchisee's computer, as Franchisor shall deem necessary, desirable, or appropriate. Franchisee agrees to purchase and install any new or upgraded software programs, manuals and computer-related materials and equipment whenever Franchisor determines to adopt such new or upgraded programs, manuals and computer-related materials and equipment for all ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA franchisees. Franchisee understands and agrees that computer designs and functions change periodically and that Franchisee may be required to make and install substantial modifications to the computer system, and make additions, changes and modifications during the term of this Agreement to ensure full operational efficiency and communications capability.
J. Sale of Franchisor's Products
Franchisee shall not sell, dispense, give away, or otherwise provide products or services bearing the Proprietary Marks, except by means of retail sales in or from the Restaurant. Unless prior written agreement is received from the Franchisor, all wholesale sales are reserved to Franchisor.
K. Franchisor's Employees
Franchisee shall not interfere with the employees and agents of Franchisor in the performance of such employees and agents duties, and Franchisee further agrees that Franchisee will not employ or seek to employ any of Franchisor's employees or agents, or any employees or agents of Franchisor's parent or affiliate(s) or any employees or agents of other franchisee's of Franchisor, for a period of at least two (2) years following the separation of any such employee from employment by Franchisor or its parent or affiliate(s), or other franchisee or the termination of any agency relationship with Franchisor, its parent, or affiliate(s), or other franchisee without the prior written consent of the Franchisor, its parent, affiliate, or such other franchisee.
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L. Franchisee's Cooperation
Franchisee shall cooperate with Franchisor in taking any action, or refraining from taking any action that, in the sole judgment of Franchisor, is necessary or desirable to promote and enhance the quality of the products of the Restaurant, the service provided by the Restaurant, or the image of the Restaurant in the local community. Franchisee shall attend all ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA franchise meetings as Franchisor deems mandatory from time to time and as Franchisor deems in the best interest of the System as a whole. The cost of attending said meetings shall be that of Franchisee, including the cost of transportation, subsistence, lodging, and a tuition or attendance fee, if deemed warranted by Franchisor.
M. Menu Format
No changes, additions, or deletions in or to the menu format to be used at the Restaurant shall be undertaken or implemented by Franchisee, unless granted permission in writing by Franchisor. Franchisee agrees to indemnify and hold Franchisor, its affiliates shareholders, directors, officers, employees, and agents harmless from and against any and all loss, damage, cost, or expense, including attorneys' fees at all trial and appellate levels, resulting from any change Franchisee makes in the standard menu or from any deviation of Franchisee's products from the descriptions contained in Franchisor's approved menu. At Franchisor's direction, the standard menu format may contain advertising references to other ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA restaurants. Notwithstanding the foregoing, prices that will appear on the menus shall be established exclusively by Franchisee, although Franchisor may suggest prices. Franchisor may change the standard menu format at any time and from time to time. Franchisor's right to approve the menu format shall not apply to approval of the prices at which any products are sold. Menus shall disclose that sales tax, where applicable, shall be charged on all menu items subject to such tax.
N. Restaurant Compliance with Laws and Procedures
Franchisee shall operate the Restaurant in strict compliance with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations of duly constituted governmental authorities, including, without limitation, obtaining and maintaining all required permits and licenses and payment of all taxes, and in strict compliance with the standard procedures established by Franchisor from time to time including, without limitation, accounting records and information, on such forms as Franchisor may require; payment procedures; hours of operation; design and color of uniforms; size of servings; standards of sanitation, maintenance, and repair; cleaning and fire prevention service; and all matters that, in Franchisor's judgment, require standardization and uniformity in all ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA Restaurants. All costs that may be incurred in order to maintain and implement such standard procedures shall be borne by Franchisee, at its sole expense.
O. Uniforms and Attire
Franchisor shall be entitled to prescribe standard uniforms and attire for all Restaurant personnel. Franchisee shall be entitled to obtain such uniforms and attire from any approved manufacturer or distributor, so long as the uniforms are of a reasonable quality and are in strict accordance with Franchisor's specifications.
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P. Vending Machines
No vending machines, amusement devices, video machines, or other devices of any nature, except as approved by Franchisor, whether or not coin operated, shall be installed or used at the Restaurant, without the prior written consent of Franchisor.
Q. Good Business Practices
Franchisee shall secure and maintain in force in its name or its business entity all required licenses, permits, and certificates relating to the operation of the Restaurant and shall transmit copies of all such licenses, certificates, and permits to Franchisor within ten (10) days of their receipt by Franchisee.
All marketing and promotion by Franchisee shall be subject to Franchisor's prior consent. Franchisee shall adhere to the highest standards of honesty, integrity, fair dealing, and ethical conduct in all dealings with its guests, suppliers, Franchisor, and the public. Franchisee agrees to refrain from any business or advertising practice, which, in the subjective opinion of Franchisor, may be injurious to the business of Franchisor, and the goodwill associated with the Proprietary Marks and other ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA Restaurants.
R. Receipt of Notice
Within seven (7) days of the receipt by Franchisee of any failing report from any health department or other comparable agency, Franchisee shall mail a complete copy of such report to Franchisor. Franchisee shall also mail to Franchisor, within five (5) days of receipt, a complete copy of all compliance reports associated with the foregoing. Within seven (7) days of the receipt by Franchisee of any claim or demand for payment which could have a material effect upon the operations of the Restaurant by any third party based upon an alleged injury suffered at the Restaurant or upon other grounds, whether such claim is in writing and whether such claimant is a customer, Franchisee shall notify Franchisor in writing and, if such claim is in writing, shall deliver a complete copy of such claim to Franchisor. Franchisee shall notify Franchisor in writing within five (5) days of the commencement of any action, suit or proceeding, and of the issuance of any order, writ, injunction, award or decree of any court, agency, or other governmental instrumentality, which may adversely affect the operations or financial condition of Franchisee or the Restaurant or of any notice of violation of any law, ordinance, or regulation relating to health or sanitation.
S. Destruction or Damage
If a cause other than a voluntary act of Franchisee destroys or damages the Restaurant, so that the Restaurant cannot continue to operate, Franchisee shall repair and restore the Restaurant to Franchisor's then most current specifications, subject to the applicable provisions of any lease for the Restaurant. The Restaurant, or if necessary, a restaurant at a site granted permission by the Franchisor shall be open and operating no later than six (6) months from the date of the destruction or damage. In the event of any other cessation of operations, Franchisee shall restart operations no later than fourteen (14) days from the date thereof.
VII. RESTAURANT INSPECTION
Franchisor may inspect the Restaurant from time to time to determine compliance with uniformity
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and quality control. Franchisor's personnel or designated agent(s) shall have the right to enter the Restaurant at any reasonable time and from time to time for the purpose of examining, conferring with Franchisee or Franchisee's employees, inspecting the Restaurant and testing the products and items sold in the Restaurant, auditing, and all other purposes in connection with the determination that the Restaurant is being operated in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, the Confidential Manuals, and other applicable rules. Franchisee specifically authorizes Franchisor's personnel or representatives who are on the Restaurant premises, to monitor the operation of the cash registers in the Restaurant, for such periods as Franchisor may determine to be necessary. Franchisee agrees to remedy any defects, deficiencies, or unsatisfactory conditions discovered at the Restaurant by Franchisor's personnel, no later than forty-eight (48) hours after being advised of same in writing.
VIII. SUPPLIERS
A. Products and Supplies
Franchisee shall cause the Restaurant to conform to Franchisor's specifications and quality standards as specified in the Confidential Manuals, and shall purchase only from distributors and suppliers approved by Franchisor (which may include Franchisor), all food products, beverages, ingredients, flavorings, garnishes, cartons, bags, boxes, napkins, other containers, paper and plastic goods, packaging supplies, and other materials. In selecting such distributors and suppliers, for the Restaurant, Franchisor may consider such factors as quality of delivery service, inventory capability, financial condition, price and the reliability of the distributor or supplier. Franchisor may arrange for the concentration of purchases with one or more distributors or suppliers to obtain competitive prices and/or the best advertising support and/or services for any group of restaurants franchised or operated by Franchisor or an affiliate. The selection of a distributor or supplier may be conditioned on requirements relating to the frequency of delivery, standards of service, and concentration of purchases, may be temporary, pending a further evaluation of the distributor or supplier by Franchisor, and may be changed from time to time. Franchisor reserves the right at its sole discretion to develop proprietary items, and to designate itself as an approved supplier and to make a profit from the sale of such items to Franchisee. If Franchisor arranges for, or establishes, a cooperative buying program, Franchisee will be encouraged, but not obligated to participate, so as to maintain the highest quality for the products associated with the System.
Franchisor may from time to time require Franchisee to discontinue the use or sale of any product or item, or disapprove a previously approved distributor or supplier which or who in Franchisor's opinion does not meet the standards of quality established by Franchisor.
B. New Suppliers
If Franchisee, during the term of this Agreement, desires to purchase any equipment or products for use in the Restaurant from a supplier who has not been previously been granted permission to supply products or services by Franchisor, Franchisee may request in writing permission by Franchisor of such supplier. Franchisor shall consent to such proposed supplier if in Franchisor's sole judgment and discretion, Franchisor is satisfied that the supplier can meet and maintain Franchisor's specifications, standards, and requirements. Franchisee, in making such request, shall furnish Franchisor, at Franchisee's cost, with adequate samples of the items for which approval is being requested, or if that is not feasible, then with copies of descriptions, specifications and pictures of such items. Franchisee shall not sell, dispense, or use any such items until such consent has been granted
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and notice thereof given to Franchisee in writing. Nothing contained herein shall be construed to require Franchisor to grant permission to an unreasonable number of suppliers for any particular item or service, which could interfere with the effective and economical supervision of suppliers, by Franchisor. Franchisor reserves the right, as a condition precedent to granting permission or rejecting any request for a new or additional supplier of any item or service, to charge such proposed supplier the reasonable cost and expenses incurred by Franchisor in evaluating, investigating and determining any such request. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed as an attempt by Franchisor to limit the sources from which Franchisee may procure equipment, supplies, products, or other items.
Franchisor may require Franchisee to discontinue the use or sale of any product or item obtained from a supplier recommended initially by Franchisee which, in Franchisor's opinion, does not continue to conform to the image or quality standards of Franchisor and its products.
C. Trade Accounts
Franchisee agrees to maintain its trade accounts in a current status and to seek to resolve any disputes with trade suppliers promptly.
IX. INSURANCE
Throughout the term of this Agreement, Franchisee shall maintain in effect at all times, a policy or policies of insurance, with a Bests "A" rated insurance carrier, naming Franchisor as an additional insured on the face of each policy at Franchisee's sole cost and expense, as follows:
A. Bodily Injury and Property Damage
Public liability in no less than $24,000,000 combined single limits for bodily injury and property damage, which amounts may be changed from time to time upon receipt of written demand of Franchisor;
B. Workers' Compensation
Workers' compensation insurance as required by state law;
C. Auto Insurance
$24,000,000 combined single limits for bodily injury and property damage, which amounts may be changed on written demand of Franchisor from time to time, only if Franchisee desires to offer delivery service. Franchisee must first obtain Franchisor's written consent and obtain such additional insurance as is usual and customary for such activity and provide Franchisor with a copy of the policy evidencing such additional coverage; and
D. Risk Replacement Coverage's
Fire, vandalism, theft, malicious mischief, sprinkler damage and the perils described in extended coverage insurance with primary and excess limits of at least the full replacement value of the supplies, furniture, fixtures, machinery, and inventory used in the Restaurant.
E. Lease Controls
In the event of a conflict between the insurance coverage required hereunder and those required
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under a lease for the Franchise Location, Franchisee shall provide the most comprehensive of the coverage.
Franchisee shall promptly notify Franchisor of any and all claims against Franchisee and/or Franchisor under said policies of insurance and shall deliver to Franchisor certificates evidencing that such insurance is in full force and effect within thirty (30) days after signing this Agreement and each year thereafter. Such insurance certificate(s) shall contain a statement that the policies shall not be canceled without thirty (30) day's prior written notice to Franchisee and to Franchisor. In the event that Franchisee does not have coverage Franchisor shall have the right upon written notification to purchase insurance on behalf of the Franchisee and charge the current rate plus 10%.
X. INDEMNIFICATION
Franchisee agrees to defend at its own cost and to indemnify and hold harmless Franchisor, its shareholders, directors, officers, employees and agents, from and against any and all claims, losses, costs, expenses (including attorneys' fees at all levels), damages, and liabilities, resulting directly or indirectly from, or pertaining to the use, condition, construction, equipping, decorating, maintenance, or operation of the Restaurant, including the preparation and sale of any product made in or sold from the Restaurant. Such losses, claims, costs, expenses, damages, and liabilities shall include without limitation, those arising from latent or other defects in the Restaurant, whether or not discoverable by Franchisee, and those arising from the death or injury to any person, or arising from damage to the property of Franchisee or Franchisor, their agents or employees, or any third person, firm, or corporation.
XI. COOPERATIVES
A. Franchisor shall have the right at any time, and from time to time, to create Co-op Advertising Regions ("Co-op"). If and when Franchisor creates a Cooperative for the geographic region in which the Restaurant is located, Franchisee shall become a member thereof, and participate therein. The size and content of such regions, when and if established by the Franchisor, shall be binding upon Franchisee and all other franchisees similarly situated. At all meetings of such Cooperative, each participating franchisee shall be entitled to one (1) vote for each ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA restaurant located within such Cooperative. At any time, upon reasonable notice, twenty percent (20%) of the eligible member votes, or the directors of the Cooperative, may call a meeting of all members of a Cooperative. Except as provided in paragraph B below, all matters concerning operation of a Cooperative shall be decided by majority vote, provided that a quorum is present, and such vote shall bind all members of said Cooperative. For purposes hereof, a quorum shall consist of members entitled to cast at least 50% of the total number of votes in such Cooperative.
B. Each Cooperative shall be organized and governed in a form and manner, and shall commence operations on a date, granted permission in advance by Franchisor, in writing, as follows:
1) Each Cooperative shall be organized for the exclusive purposes of administering regional advertising programs and developing, subject to Franchisor's approval, standardized promotional materials for use by the members in local advertising.
2) No advertising or promotional plans or materials may be used by a Cooperative or furnished to its members without the prior written consent of Franchisor.
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C. Based on the decision of a majority of the votes represented by all of the members of the Cooperative, each member can be required to contribute to the Cooperative, up to, but not greater than, two percent (2%), of the Gross Sales of such member's restaurant. Such amount shall be in addition to the amount required to be contributed to the Marketing Fund pursuant to paragraph XII.B.1. In the event of authorization of such Cooperative advertising contributions as previously mentioned, each franchisee, including Franchisor, shall submit its required contribution to the Cooperative as required, together with such statements as may be required by the Cooperative.
D. Franchisee's payment of any Cooperative obligation, in accordance with paragraph XI, shall be credited against Franchisee's local advertising requirement described in paragraph XII.C.
XII. FEES
In addition to all other payments provided for in this Agreement, Franchisee shall pay the following:
A. Royalty Fee
Franchisee shall pay weekly, to Franchisor, as a royalty (the "Royalty"), an amount equal to the greatest of six percent (6%) of Franchisee's Gross Sales at the Franchise Location, or Two Hundred Forty Dollars ($240) (the "Minimum Royalty"), for each week or partial week during the term of this Agreement. For the purposes of this Agreement, a week shall be Monday through Sunday. During the term hereof, Franchisee shall deliverto Franchisora report of the Gross Sales of the Restaurant for the prior week, no later than 5 pm Eastern Standard Time Monday of the following week and make payment via electronic draft (ACH) of the Royalty on each Wednesday for the prior week. The report shall be on a form specified by Franchisor, which shall fully disclose all information requested. In addition, Franchisee shall supply, upon Franchisor's written request, documentation supporting the information disclosed on the reports.
B. Advertising, Marketing, and Promotion
1) Recognizing the value of marketing to the goodwill and public image of ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA restaurants, Franchisor may establish and administer a marketing fund (the "Marketing Fund") for such marketing (including advertising, promotion, public relations and other marketing programs) as Franchisor may deem necessary or appropriate, in its sole discretion. Franchisor shall notify the Franchisee in writing that is has elected to commence operation of the Marketing Fund and Franchisee shall contribute to the Marketing Fund, beginning sixty (60) days after such notice, an amount equal to the greater of a maximum of three percent (3%) of the Gross Sales of the Restaurant, or One Hundred Twenty Dollars ($120) (the "Minimum Contribution"). Franchisee shall contribute to the Marketing Fund at the time it makes payment of the Royalty due under this Agreement and in the same manner of payment. Restaurants owned by Franchisor and its affiliates may, but shall not be obligated to, contribute to the Marketing Fund on the same basis as Franchisee.
2) Except as otherwise provided below in section 3, Franchisor shall direct all marketing programs financed by the Marketing Fund. Franchisor shall have sole discretion over the creative concepts, materials, and endorsements used therein,
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and the geographic market and media placement and allocation thereof. Franchisee agrees that the Marketing Fund may be used to pay the costs of conducting marketing surveys and research; employing public relations firms; salaries, preparing and producing video, audio, and printed marketing materials; administering multi-regional marketing programs, including, without limitation, purchasing television, radio, magazine, billboard, newspaper, and other media advertising, and employing advertising agencies to assist therewith; providing marketing materials to franchisees; and holding conventions and regional meetings for franchisees. The Marketing Fund shall furnish Franchisee with standard marketing materials on the same terms and conditions as Franchisor furnishes such materials to Franchisor's other franchisees.
The Marketing Fund shall be accounted for separately from the other funds of Franchisor and shall not be used to defray any of Franchisor's general operating expenses, except for salaries, administrative costs, and overhead that Franchisor may incur in activities related to the administration of the Marketing Fund and marketing programs financed through the Marketing Fund (including, without limitation, collecting and accounting for contributions to the Marketing Fund).
Franchisor may spend in any fiscal year an amount greater or less than the aggregate contributions of restaurants to the Marketing Fund in that year and the Marketing Fund may borrow from Franchisor or others to cover temporary deficits in the Marketing Funds or cause the Marketing Fund to invest any surplus for future use by the Marketing Fund. Franchisee authorizes Franchisor to collect any advertising monies or credits due from any distributor or other supplier to Franchisee and any advertising or other rebates or any discounts from distributors and other suppliers based upon purchases or volume purchases by Franchisor and its franchisees (including purchases by Franchisee). Franchisor shall have the right to negotiate with suppliers from time to time to obtain on Franchisor's and/or Franchisee's behalf price reductions, discounts, or rebates based on volume purchases. Unless such suppliers designate such payments as being for advertising and promotion (in which event, Franchisor shall contribute same to the Marketing Fund), Franchisor may retain such payments for its own purposes. Any contributions from vendors or suppliers shall be in addition to all other amounts due or contributed under this Agreement. All interest earned on monies contributed to the Marketing Fund will be used to pay marketing costs of the Marketing Fund before other assets of the Marketing Fund are expended. A statement of monies collected and expenditures made by the Marketing Fund shall be prepared annually by Franchisor and shall be provided to Franchisee upon written request. Franchisor may terminate or suspend the Marketing Fund at any time upon reasonable written notice. In such event, all funds remaining in the Marketing Fund may only be used for advertising and promotional purposes until fully expended.
Franchisee understands and acknowledges that the Marketing Fund is intended to be used to develop general public recognition of the trademark, service marks, trade names, and logos and increase patronage of ROTELLI PIZZA & PASTA
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restaurants in general. Franchisor undertakes no obligation to ensure that expenditures by the Marketing Fund in, or affecting any geographic area, are proportionate or equivalent to contributions to the Marketing Fund by restaurants operating in any geographic area or that any restaurant will benefit directly or in proportion to its contribution to the Marketing Fund, from the conduct of marketing programs or the placement of advertising. Franchisor assumes no direct or indirect liability or obligation to Franchisee with respect to the maintenance, direction, or administration of the Marketing Fund.
6) Franchisor shall have the right, but not the obligation, to establish a Marketing Fund Advisory Committee consisting of franchisees of Franchisor, to advise and consult with Franchisor in connection with establishment, modification, continuance, or other decisions or considerations affecting marketing programs. The organizational structure and manner of operation of such Committee shall be determined by Franchisor in Franchisor's sole discretion, exercised in good faith. Franchisor shall consult with such Committee and consider such Committee's input and advice concerning the use of the Marketing Fund. However, as described in sections 1 and 2, Franchisor shall retain sole discretion over all aspects, including but not limited to administration and use, of the Marketing Fund.
C. Local Advertising Requirements
In addition to the Marketing Fund fee required to be paid by Franchisee pursuant to paragraph XII.B above, Franchisee shall be required to spend two percent (2%) of Gross Sales monthly on local advertising. Local advertising must be in effect within thirty (30) days after the opening of the Restaurant, and Franchisee is to substantiate local advertising expenditures to Franchisor, by supplying such information as Franchisor may require from time to time, including but not limited to, tear sheets, paid advertising invoices, and like documentation.
Prior to their use by Franchisee, samples of all marketing materials and descriptions of local promotion programs that Franchisee proposes to use, not prepared or previously permitted by Franchisor, shall be submitted to Franchisor for authorization. If written rejection is not received by Franchisee within fifteen (15) days from the date of receipt by Franchisor of such materials or descriptions, Franchisor shall be deemed to have given the required consent. Franchisee shall not use any marketing materials that Franchisor has disapproved.
Franchisee shall also be responsible for any lease obligations which require contributions(s) to a marketing fund, advertising fund, or any fund of a similar nature or other forms of advertising expense and any such contributions or expenditures made by Franchisee to satisfy such lease obligations shall be credited against Franchisee's obligation to engage in local advertising.
D. Grand Opening Marketing Fund
At the time the Franchisee executes the Franchise Agreement he shall pay to the Franchisor a Grand Opening Marketing Fee of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000) .Franchisor shall hold said Grand Opening Marketing Fee for Franchisee's benefit to fund Franchisee's grand opening marketing program. If the Franchise Agreement is terminated prior to the Restaurant opening, pursuant to Section III, hereof, any unexpended portion of Franchisee's Grand Opening Marketing Fee, if any, shall be refunded.
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E. Consumer Price Index
Commencing on January 1 st following the execution of this Agreement and on every January 1 st thereafter, the weekly Minimum Royalty and Minimum Contribution for the prior year, shall be increased in direct proportion to the percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the prior year. Within ten (10) days prior to the commencement of any annual CPI increase, Franchisor shall notify the Franchisee in writing of the amount of the increase in the weekly Minimum Royalty and Minimum Contribution for the following year, if any, and if Franchisor fails to so notify the Franchisee, the previous applicable weekly Minimum Royalty and Minimum Contribution shall apply until such time as Franchisee is notified in writing of the appropriate increase. Within thirty (30) days thereafter, Franchisee shall pay Franchisor any deficiency in the weekly Royalty or Marketing Fund Contributions occurring from date of notice.
XIII. GROSS SALES, PAYMENTS, AND FALSE STATEMENTS
A. Definition
The term "Gross Sales" is defined to include the total revenues derived by Franchisee in and from the Restaurant from all sales (both retail and wholesale, if permitted) of foods, beverages, goods, wares, merchandise, and all services made in, upon, or from the Restaurant, whether for cash, check, credit, or otherwise, without reserve or deduction for inability or failure to collect same, including, without limitation, such sales and services where the orders therefore originated at and are accepted by Franchisee in the Restaurant, or are prepared at the Restaurant, but delivery or performance thereof is made from or at any other place. Gross Sales do not include discounts, refunds to customers or the amount of any sales taxes or other similar taxes that Franchisee might be required to and does collect from customers to be paid to any federal, state, or local taxing authority.
B. Payment
Franchisee must participate in Franchisor's electronic funds transfer program, which authorizes Franchisor to utilize a pre-authorized bank draft system. Franchisee must sign and deliver to Franchisor an unconditional, irrevocable authorization to enable Franchisor's financial institution to debit bank accounts at Franchisee's bank in order to pay Franchisor any Royalties, Marketing Fund contributions, and other amounts that Franchisee may owe Franchisor under this Agreement or any other agreement between Franchisee and Franchisor. All Royalties, Marketing Fund contributions, and other amounts due Franchisor must be received by Franchisor or credited to Franchisor's account by pre-authorized bank debit before 5:00 p.m. on the day each such payment is due.
C. Late Payment
If Franchisee shall be delinquent in the payment of any obligation to Franchisor hereunder, or under any other agreement with Franchisor, Franchisor shall have the absolute right to apply any payments received from Franchisee to any obligation owed, whether under this Agreement or otherwise, notwithstanding any contrary designation by Franchisee as to application. To encourage prompt payment and to cover the costs and expenses involved in handling and processing late payments, Franchisee shall pay a late payment charge of the greater of Thirtywenty Five Dollars ($325.00) or five percent (5%) of any amount due from Franchisee to Franchisor hereunder. In addition, Franchisee shall pay, at the rate of eighteen percent (18%) per annum, interest on all payments due to
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Franchisor hereunder during the period for which such payments are overdue, but in the event the rate charged is more than the highest rate permitted by law, then the rate charged shall be reduced to the maximum rate permitted by law.
Any payment not actually received by Franchisor on or before the date due pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed overdue, unless, in the opinion of Franchisor, the delay was beyond the reasonable control of Franchisee. Notwithstanding the foregoing, each failure to pay the Royalty, the Marketing Fund contribution and other payments owed to Franchisor when due, will constitute a breach of this Agreement, entitling Franchisor to pursue all remedies available to it under this Agreement and all other remedies available at law and in equity.
D. Security Agreement
In order to secure the prompt performance by Franchisee of the obligations of this Agreement, Franchisee grants Franchisor a security interest in the franchise granted hereby and the equipment, fixtures and improvements at the Restaurant. Franchisee shall execute Franchisor's standard Security Agreement attached hereto as Exhibit "D." In order to perfect this security interest, Franchisee shall also execute a standard UCC-1 Financing Statement. Franchisee authorizes Franchisor:
1) To file a copy of the Security Agreement, the UCC-1 Financing Statement and any other documents that may be necessary to perfect the security interest granted herein; and
2) To sign on behalf of Franchisee and to file in any jurisdiction, with or without signature of Franchisee, financing statements with respect to this security interest and Security Agreement.
E. False Statements
Any intentionally false statements in any reports provided to Franchisor shall be grounds for Franchisor to terminate this Agreement.
XIV. REPORTING, RECORD KEEPING AND ACCOUNTING
A. Reports
Franchisee shall record all sales and receipts of revenue and report same to Franchisor. Franchisor's standardized reporting forms must be used by Franchisee. This uniform system may be amended or supplemented from time to time by Franchisor and includes, without limitation, Royalty statements. Franchisee shall be solely responsible for performing all record keeping duties, and the cost for same shall be borne solely by Franchisee.
B. Records and Audits
Franchisee shall maintain and preserve accurate books, records (including corporate minute book), and tax returns, including related supporting material, such as cash register tapes for the Restaurant, for at least three (3) years, following the end of the calendar year to which they relate. Such books, records, tax returns, and supporting material shall be available for inspection, examination, or audit, including an audit by a certified public accountant, at any time, at Franchisor's sole discretion. Such examination or audit shall be at Franchisor's expense, unless it is disclosed that any statement of
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The original documents were scanned as an image. The original file can be downloaded at the link above.