Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDD) (previously called UFOCs) are crucial legal documents that franchisors in the United States must provide to prospective franchisees as required by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FDD contains vital information about the franchisor, the franchise system, and the franchise agreement. As such, it serves several essential purposes, including due diligence, negotiation, compliance, and litigation.
Prospective franchisees can use the FDD to conduct their due diligence before investing in a franchise. By providing in-depth information about the franchise system, the franchisor’s financial history, and the costs involved, the FDD enables franchisees to make informed investment decisions.
Moreover, the FDD can serve as a starting point for negotiations between the franchisor and franchisee. Armed with the information in the FDD, franchisees can negotiate the terms of the franchise agreement, including the initial franchise fee, ongoing royalties, and other expenses.
Franchisors must provide the FDD to prospective franchisees to comply with the law. Failure to do so can result in legal action by the FTC. Additionally, the franchisor must update the FDD annually and provide a copy to existing franchisees.
In the event of a dispute between the franchisor and franchisee, the FDD can serve as evidence in court. The FDD provides important information about the obligations and responsibilities of both parties, as well as the terms of the franchise agreement.
the Franchise Disclosure Document is an indispensable tool for franchisors and franchisees alike. It promotes transparency, accountability, and fairness in the franchising process, ensuring that both parties’ interests are protected.
FRANdata has been collecting and compiling FDD’s for more than 30 years resulting in one of the most complete database of franchise disclosure documents in the world. Access to more than 60,000 FDDs from 7,500 brands here. Want to learn more? Read our latest reports and studies here.