Item 11: Franchisor’s Obligations

What is Item 11

Item 11 of the Franchise Disclosure Document outlines everything the franchisor must do to help the franchisee establish and operate their business. It includes pre-opening support, ongoing services, training, technology, marketing and field assistance.

Item 11 is one of the longest and most scrutinized Items in the FDD because it shapes franchisee expectations and defines the franchisor’s operational responsibilities.

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Why Item 11 Matters

Item 11 impacts:

• franchisee success and preparation

• system consistency

• onboarding quality

• brand reputation

• operational risk

• validation discussions with existing franchisees

Incomplete or vague Item 11 disclosures often lead to disputes when franchisees feel under-supported.

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What Must Be Included in Item 11

The franchisor must disclose:

Pre-Opening Assistance

• site selection guidance

• lease review

• design and buildout support

• equipment specifications

• technology installation

• opening checklists

• marketing launch support

Training Programs

• training curriculum

• hours and format

• location (onsite or corporate)

• trainers experience

• who must attend

• training costs

• continuing education

Ongoing Support

• field support and operational visits

• marketing and advertising programs

• technology systems

• supply chain and vendor management

• quality control programs

• brand standards enforcement

Approvals and Restrictions

• site approval requirements

• buildout requirements

• supplier approvals

• restrictions on sourcing

Timelines

The franchisor must state when each obligation will be performed.

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Examiner Issues

Examiners request clarification when:

• support is promised verbally but not disclosed

• training hours are missing

• supplier approval rules are unclear

• franchisors offer “site selection assistance” that is too vague

• timelines are undefined

• technology requirements contradict Item 8

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Related Terms

FDD Renewal
Material Change
Franchise Examiner
Franchise Exemption
Notice Filing State
Non Registration State
Registration Filing State
Stop Order

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Related Features

Franchise Registration Management 
Franchise Territory Mapping
Demographic Analysis
Integrated Document Signing
CRM Tools

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