Back to top

FRANCHISE AGREEMENT

Franchise Agreement

FRANCHISE AGREEMENT | Document Parties: COSI INC You are currently viewing:
This Franchise Agreement involves

COSI INC

. RealDealDocs™ contains millions of easily searchable legal documents and clauses from top law firms. Search for free - click here.
Title: FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
Governing Law: Delaware     Date: 8/11/2005
Industry: Restaurants     Sector: Services

FRANCHISE AGREEMENT, Parties: cosi inc
50 of the Top 250 law firms use our Products every day
 

EXHIBIT 10.5

COSI, INC.

FRANCHISE AGREEMENT

 


 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Section

 

 

 

Page

1.

 

 

GRANT

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

 

 

TERM AND RENEWAL

 

 

3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

 

 

DUTIES OF FRANCHISOR

 

 

4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.

 

 

FEES

 

 

5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

 

 

SITE, CONSTRUCTION AND OPENING OF BUSINESS

 

 

6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

 

 

TRAINING

 

 

7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.

 

 

TECHNOLOGY

 

 

8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.

 

 

OTHER DUTIES OF FRANCHISEE

 

 

10

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

 

 

PROPRIETARY MARKS

 

 

15

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.

 

 

MANUALS

 

 

16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.

 

 

CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION

 

 

17

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12.

 

 

ACCOUNTING AND RECORDS

 

 

17

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13.

 

 

MARKETING AND PROMOTION

 

 

18

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14.

 

 

INSURANCE

 

 

21

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15.

 

 

TRANSFER OF INTEREST

 

 

22

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16.

 

 

DEFAULT AND TERMINATION

 

 

25

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

17.

 

 

OBLIGATIONS UPON TERMINATION OR EXPIRATION

 

 

27

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18.

 

 

COVENANTS

 

 

28

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19.

 

 

CORPORATE, LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, OR PARTNERSHIP FRANCHISEE

 

 

29

 

i


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Section

 

 

 

Page

20.

 

 

TAXES, PERMITS, AND INDEBTEDNESS

 

 

30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

21.

 

 

INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR AND INDEMNIFICATION

 

 

30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

22.

 

 

APPROVALS AND WAIVERS

 

 

31

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

23.

 

 

WARRANTIES OF OPERATOR

 

 

31

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

24.

 

 

NOTICES

 

 

31

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

25.

 

 

ENTIRE AGREEMENT

 

 

31

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

26.

 

 

SEVERABILITY AND CONSTRUCTION

 

 

32

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

27.

 

 

APPLICABLE LAW AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION

 

 

32

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

28.

 

 

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

 

 

33

 

 

 

EXHIBIT A – DATA SHEET

EXHIBIT B – ADA CERTIFICATION

EXHIBIT C – LIST OF FRANCHISEE’S PRINCIPALS

EXHIBIT D – AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT FOR PREARRANGED PAYMENTS

EXHIBIT E – GUARANTY

EXHIBIT F – CONFIDENTIALITY AND NON-COMPETE AGREEMENTS

ii


 

FRANCHISE AGREEMENT

     THIS FRANCHISE AGREEMENT (the “ Agreement ”) is made and entered into on this                      day of                                          , 200       (the “ Effective Date ”), by and between:

¨

 

Cosi, Inc, a Delaware corporation whose principal place of business is 1751 Lake Cook Road, 6 th Floor, Deerfield, Illinois 60015 (“ Franchisor ”); and

 

 

 

¨

 

                                                                                                                                                                                 a [resident of] [corporation organized in] [limited liability company organized in] [select one] , having offices at                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  (“ Franchisee ”).

BACKGROUND:

     A. Franchisor owns a format and system (the “ System ”) relating to the establishment and operation of fast casual restaurants, which operate at retail locations that display Franchisor’s interior and exterior trade dress and feature and operate under the Proprietary Marks (as defined below) (each a “ Cosi Restaurant ”). Cosi Restaurants are designed using Franchisor’s interior trade dress to be welcoming and comfortable for customers, and offer menus specializing in Franchisor’s signature flatbread, sandwiches, soups, salads, gourmet coffee and specialty beverages and food items using Franchisor’s proprietary recipes, formulae and techniques (“ Proprietary Products ”), as well as other non-proprietary food, beverage, and other compatible items designated by Franchisor from time to time (collectively, “ Products ”).

     B. The distinguishing characteristics of the System include distinctive exterior and interior design, decor, color schemes, fixtures, and furnishings; recipes, standards and specifications for products, equipment, materials, and supplies; uniform standards, specifications, and procedures for operations; purchasing and sourcing procedures; procedures for inventory and management control; training and assistance; and marketing and promotional programs; all of which may be changed, improved, and further developed by Franchisor from time to time.

     C. The System is identified by means of certain trade names, service marks, trademarks, logos, emblems, and indicia of origin as are now designated and may hereafter be designated by Franchisor in writing for use in connection with the System including the mark “Cosi” and other marks (the “ Proprietary Marks ”).

     D. Franchisee desires to enter into the business of operating a restaurant as a Cosi Restaurant under the System and using the Proprietary Marks, and wishes to enter into this agreement with Franchisor for that purpose, and to receive the training and other assistance provided by Franchisor in connection therewith.

     E. Franchisee understands and acknowledges the importance of the high standards of Franchisor for quality, cleanliness, appearance, and service and the necessity of operating the business franchised hereunder in conformity with the standards and specifications of Franchisor.

      NOW, THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows:

GRANT

      Grant and Acceptance . Franchisor grants to Franchisee the right, and Franchisee hereby undertakes the obligation, upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement to: (a) establish and operate a Cosi Restaurant (the “ Franchised Restaurant ”), (b) use, only in connection therewith, the Proprietary Marks and the System, as they may be changed, improved, or further developed from time to time by Franchisor; and (c) operate the Franchised Restaurant only at the Approved Location (as defined in Section 1.2 below) in accordance with this Agreement.

      Approved Location . Franchisee shall develop and operate the Franchised Restaurant only at the site specified in Exhibit A to this Agreement as the “ Approved Location ” (which shall have been identified pursuant to a Site Selection Agreement between Franchisor and Franchisee, unless Franchisee possessed such site at the time Franchisee applied to Franchisor for franchise rights for the Franchised Restaurant). Franchisee shall not relocate the Franchised Restaurant without Franchisor’s prior written consent and/or otherwise in writing by Franchisor, as provided in Section 8.19 below.

      Limit on Sales . Franchisee’s rights hereunder shall be limited to offering and selling Products at the Franchised Restaurant, and only to retail customers of the Franchised Restaurant for (a) customer consumption on the premises of

1


 

the Franchised Restaurant at the Approved Location (the “ Premises ”); and (b) for customer carry-out consumption of Products sold at the Franchised Restaurant; provided that all such activities shall be conducted only in accordance with the requirements of this Agreement and the procedures set forth in the Manuals (as defined in Section 10 below) and all applicable laws. Franchisee may apply in writing for Franchisor’s approval to engage in off-Premises delivery or off-Premises catering activities, and if approved by Franchisor, Franchisee may engage in such activities pursuant to such programs, policies terms, and conditions as Franchisor may establish from time to time. Franchisee shall not, without the prior written approval of Franchisor, engage in any other type of sale of, or offer to sell, or distribution of Products, including, but not limited to: selling, distributing or otherwise providing, any Products to third parties at wholesale, or for resale or distribution by any third party; and selling, distributing or otherwise providing any Products through catalogs, mail order, toll free numbers for delivery, or electronic means (e.g., the Internet).

      Territory and Reserved Rights . Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, during the term of this Agreement, Franchisor shall not establish or operate, nor license any other person to establish or operate, a Cosi Restaurant at any location within the territory specified in Exhibit A (the “ Territory ”). Franchisor retains the rights, among others, on any terms and conditions Franchisor deems advisable, and without granting Franchisee any rights therein:

           To own, acquire, establish, and/or operate and license others to establish and operate, Cosi Restaurants under the System at any location outside the Territory notwithstanding their proximity to the Territory or the Approved Location or their actual or threatened impact on sales of the Franchised Restaurant;

           To own, acquire, establish and/or operate and license others to establish and operate, non-restaurant businesses under the Proprietary Marks, at any location within or outside the Territory.

           To own, acquire, establish and/or operate, and license others to establish and operate, businesses under proprietary marks other than the Proprietary Marks, whether such businesses are similar or different from the Franchised Restaurant, at any location within or outside the Territory notwithstanding their proximity to the Territory or the Approved Location or their actual or threatened impact on sales of the Franchised Restaurant;

           To own, acquire, establish, and/or operate and license others to establish and operate, Cosi Restaurants under the Proprietary Marks at Institutional Accounts (as defined below) at any location within or outside the Territory. As used in this Agreement, “ Institutional Accounts ” shall mean outlets that serve primarily the customers located within the facility, such as captive audience facilities (examples include, but are not limited to, parks charging admission, stadiums, amusement parks and centers, theaters and art centers), limited purpose facilities (examples include, but are not limited to, airports, transportation centers, department stores, in-door shopping centers, business and industrial complexes, museums, educational facilities, hospitals, art centers, and recreational parks), limited access facilities (examples include, but are not limited to, military complexes, buyer club businesses, educational facilities, business and industrial complexes), and other types of institutional accounts.

           To sell and to distribute, directly or indirectly, or to license others to sell and to distribute, directly or indirectly, any products (including the Products) through grocery or convenience stores or through outlets that are primarily retail in nature, or through mail order, toll free numbers, or the Internet, including those products bearing Franchisor’s Proprietary Marks provided that distribution within the Territory shall not be from a Cosi Restaurant established under the System that is operated from within the Territory (except from a Cosi Restaurant at an Institutional Account);

           To (i) acquire one or more retail businesses that are the same as, or similar to, Cosi Restaurants then operating under the System (each an “ Acquired Business ”), which may be at any location within or outside the Territory notwithstanding their proximity to the Territory or the Approved Location or their actual or threatened impact on sales of the Franchised Restaurant, and to (ii) operate and/or license others to operate any Acquired Business under its existing name or as a Cosi Restaurant under the System, subject to the following conditions that apply to each Acquired Business located within the Territory:

                Except as provided in Section 1.4.6.2 below, and provided that Franchisee is in compliance with this Agreement and any other agreement with Franchisor, Franchisor shall offer to Franchisee the option to purchase and operate, as a Cosi Restaurant, an Acquired Business that is purchased by Franchisor for operation by Franchisor or its affiliates. Franchisor shall provide Franchisee with written notice of Franchisor’s purchase of the Acquired Business(es), the terms and conditions applicable to the Franchisee’s option to purchase such Acquired Business(es), and such other information that Franchisor deems necessary to include in the notice. The terms and conditions offered to Franchisee shall include, without limitation, the

2


 

following: (a) the purchase price will be based on Franchisor’s purchase price for such Acquired Business, and if the Acquired Business was part of an Acquired System (as defined below in Section 1.4.6.2), then Franchisee’s purchase price for such Acquired Business shall be determined using a ratio equal to the sales during the prior year of such Acquired Business as compared to the total sales in such prior year of all Acquired Businesses purchased by Franchisor in the same transaction; and (b) the requirement that Franchisee enter into Franchisor’s then-current form of System franchise agreement for the Acquired Business. If Franchisee does not elect to purchase, or fails to complete the purchase of, an Acquired Business, Franchisor shall have the right to operate itself, or through its affiliates or third party licensees or franchisees, the Acquired Business under any trade name or trademarks including the Proprietary Marks.

                If an Acquired Business is part of a system of retail businesses that Franchisor acquires (an “ Acquired System ”), Franchisee shall have no right to purchase, and Franchisor shall not be obligated to offer Franchisee any option to purchase, any Acquired Business that is operated by a licensee or franchisee under the Acquired System. Franchisor may license such unit to be operated under any trade name or trademarks including the Proprietary Marks, and may also license to the licensee or franchisee additional units of the Acquired System that the licensee or franchisee has the right to develop and operate within the Territory.

TERM AND RENEWAL

      Initial Term . This Agreement shall be in effect upon its acceptance and execution by Franchisor and, except as otherwise provided herein, this Agreement shall expire ten (10) years from the Effective Date.

      Renewal . Franchisee may apply to operate the Franchised Restaurant for two (2) additional consecutive terms of five (5) years each if the following conditions are met prior to each renewal:

           Franchisee shall give Franchisor written notice of Franchisee’s election to renew at least six (6) months, but not more than twelve (12) months, prior to the end of the term of this Agreement;

           Franchisee shall not have any past due monetary obligations or other outstanding obligations to Franchisor and its affiliates, the approved suppliers of the System, or the lessor of the Premises;

           Franchisee shall not be in default of any provision of this Agreement, or successor hereto, or any other agreement between Franchisee and Franchisor or its affiliates, the approved suppliers of the System, or the lessor of the Premises; and Franchisee shall have substantially complied with all the terms and conditions of such agreements during the terms thereof;

           Franchisee and Franchisor shall execute a mutual general release, in a form prescribed by Franchisor, of any and all claims against Franchisor and its affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, agents, and employees;

           Franchisee shall execute the then-current form of franchise agreement offered by Franchisor, which shall supersede this Agreement in all respects, and the terms of which may differ from the terms of this Agreement including requirements to pay additional and/or higher fees, except that Franchisee shall not be required to pay any initial franchise fee;

           Franchisee shall comply with the then-current qualification and training requirements of Franchisor;

           Franchisee shall make or provide for, in a manner satisfactory to Franchisor, such renovation and modernization of the Premises as Franchisor may reasonably require, including installation of new equipment and renovation of signs, furnishings, fixtures, and decor to reflect the then-current standards and image of the System;

           Franchisee shall present evidence satisfactory to Franchisor that Franchisee has the right to remain in possession of the Premises (or such other location acceptable to Franchisor) for the duration of the renewal term;

3


 

           Franchisee shall not be required to pay an initial franchise fee, and instead shall pay Franchisor a renewal fee equal to Seven Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($7,500).

           Franchisee, at the time of renewal, satisfies Franchisor’s standards of financial responsibility and, if requested by Franchisor, Franchisee demonstrates to Franchisor that Franchisee has sufficient financial resources and means to continue to operate the Franchised Restaurant during the renewal term.

DUTIES OF FRANCHISOR

      Franchisor’s Prototype Plans . Franchisor shall make available, at no charge to Franchisee, prototype design plans and specifications for the construction of a Cosi Restaurant and for the exterior and interior design and layout, fixtures, furnishings, equipment, and signs. Franchisee acknowledges that such standard design plans and specifications shall not contain the requirements of any federal, state or local law, code or regulation (including without limitation those concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act (the “ ADA ”) or similar rules governing public accommodations or commercial facilities for persons with disabilities), nor shall such plans contain the requirements of, or be used for, construction drawings or other documentation necessary to obtain permits or authorization to build a specific Cosi Restaurant, compliance with all of which shall be Franchisee’s responsibility and at Franchisee’s expense. Franchisee understands and acknowledges that Franchisor has the right to modify the prototype design plans and specifications, and develop additional prototype design plans and specifications, as Franchisor deems appropriate from time to time (however Franchisor will not modify the prototype plans and specifications for the Franchised Restaurant developed pursuant to this Agreement once those prototype architectural plans and specifications have been given to Franchisee). Franchisee shall adapt the standard plans to the Franchised Restaurant’s location, as provided in Section 5.1 hereof, subject to Franchisor’s approval.

      Initial Training . Franchisor shall provide its initial training for operators and managers (“ Initial Training ”), as described in Section 6 of this Agreement, for up to four (4) trainees (unless this Agreement is for the third or subsequent Cosi Restaurant being developed pursuant to a Cosi Area Development Agreement between Franchisor and Franchisee (or an affiliate of Franchisee), in which event the terms set forth in Section 6.1.3 below shall apply with respect to the pre-opening training of Franchisee, the Designated Principal and any General Manager). Franchisor shall also provide such ongoing training as it may, from time to time, deem appropriate.

      Opening Training . Franchisor will furnish to Franchisee, at Franchisee’s premises and at Franchisor’s expense, one (1) or more of Franchisor’s representatives for the purpose of facilitating the opening of the Franchised Restaurant. During this training, such representative will also assist Franchisee in establishing and standardizing procedures and techniques essential to the operation of a Cosi Restaurant and shall assist in training personnel; however, Franchisee acknowledges that Franchisor shall not be responsible for training or offering guidance with respect to compliance with any laws, ordinances or other legal matters. Prior to the arrival of Franchisor’s representative(s), Franchisee shall have completed all training of Franchisee’s initial staff of employees for the Franchised Restaurant, as shall be necessary for Franchisee to comply with its staffing obligations under Section 8.4 below. Should Franchisee request additional assistance from Franchisor in order to facilitate the opening of the Franchised Restaurant, and should Franchisor deem it necessary and appropriate to comply with the request, Franchisee shall pay Franchisor’s per diem charges and Franchisor’s out of pocket expenses in providing such additional assistance as set forth from time to time in the Manuals.

      Loan of Manuals . Franchisor shall provide Franchisee, on loan, copies of the Franchisor’s confidential operations manuals and other manuals, instructional materials, and written policies and correspondence (collectively, the “ Manuals ”), as more fully described in Section 10 hereof.

      Advertising Programs and Materials . Franchisor shall review and shall have the right to approve or disapprove all advertising and promotional materials that Franchisee proposes to use, pursuant to Section 13 below. Franchisor shall administer the System or Market Ad Funds, if such funds exist or are created, in the manner set forth in Section 13 below.

      Grand Opening Advertising . Franchisor shall assist Franchisee in developing and conducting the Grand Opening Advertising Program (as described in Section 13.6 below), which program shall be conducted at Franchisee’s expense.

      Guidance . Franchisor may provide periodic advice or offer guidance to Franchisee in the marketing, management, and operation of the Franchised Restaurant as Franchisor determines at the time(s) and in the manner determined by Franchisor.

      Inspections . Franchisor shall conduct, as it deems advisable, inspections of the operation of the Franchised Restaurant by Franchisee.

4


 

      List of Suppliers . Franchisor shall, in the Manuals (or otherwise in writing as determined by Franchisor), provide Franchisee with a list of suppliers designated and/or approved by Franchisor to supply Products, equipment, signage, materials and services to franchisees in the System.

      Delegation . Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that any duty or obligation imposed on Franchisor by this Agreement may be performed by any distributor, designee, employee, or agent of Franchisor, as Franchisor may direct.

      Fulfillment of Obligations . In fulfilling its obligations pursuant to this Agreement, and in conducting any activities or exercising any rights pursuant to this Agreement, Franchisor (and its affiliates) shall have the right: (i) to take into account, as it sees fit, the effect on, and the interests of, other franchised businesses and systems and in which Franchisor has an interest and on Franchisor’s (and its affiliates’) own activities; (ii) to share market and product research, and other proprietary and non-proprietary business information, with other franchised businesses and systems in which Franchisor (or its affiliates) has an interest, or with Franchisor’s affiliates; (iii) to introduce proprietary and non-proprietary items or operational equipment used by the System into other franchised systems in which Franchisor has an interest; and/or (iv) to allocate resources and new developments between and among systems, and/or Franchisor’s affiliates, as Franchisor sees fit. Franchisee understands and agrees that all of Franchisor’s obligations under this Agreement are subject to this Section 3.11, and that nothing in this Section 3.11 shall in any way affect Franchisee’s obligations under this Agreement.

FEES

      Franchise Fee . The initial franchise fee shall be the amount specified in Exhibit A (the “ Franchise Fee ”), which is paid as specified in Exhibit A in consideration of the franchise granted herein. The Franchise Fee (as reflected in Exhibit A) shall be Forty Thousand Dollars ($40,000), unless Franchisee (or an affiliate of Franchisee) is an existing franchisee under the System and is operating another Cosi Restaurant as of the Effective Date, in which event the initial franchise fee shall be Thirty Five Thousand Dollars ($35,000). The Franchise Fee shall be paid in full upon the execution of this Agreement (net either (if applicable): (i) the Site Selection Fee (if any) that Franchisee previously paid to Franchisor if Franchisee entered into a Cosi Site Selection Agreement with Franchisor relating to the Franchised Restaurant, or (ii) the development credit, if any, that may be applied from the remaining portion (if any) of the Area Development Fees that Franchisee previously paid to Franchisor if Franchisee signed a separate Cosi Area Development Agreement with Franchisor relating to the Franchised Restaurant).

      Refundability . Payment of the Franchise Fee shall be non-refundable in consideration of administrative and other expenses incurred by Franchisor in granting this franchise and for Franchisor’s lost or deferred opportunity to franchise others.

      Royalty Fees . For each Week during the term of this Agreement, Franchisee shall: (a) pay Franchisor a continuing royalty fee in an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the Net Sales of the Franchised Restaurant (“ Royalty Fees ”); and (b) report to Franchisor, in the manner specified by Franchisor its Net Sales (a “ Sales Report ”). As used in this Agreement, the following terms shall apply:

           The term “ Week ” means the period starting with the commencement of business on Tuesday and concluding at the close of business on the following Monday (or, if the Franchised Restaurant is not open on a Monday, the immediately preceding business day); however, Franchisor shall have the right to designate in writing any other period of not less than seven days to constitute a “Week” under this Agreement.

           The term “ Net Sales ” means all revenue from the sale of all Products and all other income of every kind and nature related to, derived from, or originating from the Franchised Restaurant, whether at retail or wholesale (whether such sales are permitted or not), whether for cash, check, or credit, and regardless of collection in the case of check or credit; provided, however, that “Net Sales” excludes any customer refunds, coupon sales, sales taxes, and/or other taxes collected from customers by Franchisee and actually transmitted to the appropriate taxing authorities.

           If a state or local law in which the Franchised Restaurant is located prohibits or restricts in any way Franchisee’s ability to pay and Franchisor’s ability to collect Royalty Fees or other amounts based on Net Sales derived from the sale of alcoholic beverages at the Franchised Restaurant then Franchisor and Franchisee shall increase the percentage rate for calculating Royalty Fees, and change the definition of Net Sales to exclude sales of alcoholic beverages, in a manner such that the Royalty Fees to be paid by Franchisee, and received by Franchisor, shall be equal to such amounts as Franchisee would have been required to pay, and Franchisor would have received, if sales from alcoholic beverages were included from Net Sales.

      Advertising Contributions . Franchisee shall make weekly advertising contributions for marketing and promotion as Franchisor may direct pursuant to Section 13.1 based on the Net Sales of the Franchised Restaurant.

5


 

      When Payments Due . All payments required by Sections 4.3 and 4.4 above based on the Net Sales for the preceding Week, and the Sales Report required by Section 4.3 for the Net Sales for the preceding Week, shall be paid and submitted so as to be received by Franchisor by the third (3 rd ) business day after the close of each Week. Franchisee shall deliver to Franchisor any and all reports, statements and/or other information required under Section 12.2 below, at the time and in the format reasonably requested by Franchisor. Franchisee shall establish an arrangement for electronic funds transfer or deposit of any payments required under this Section. Franchisee shall execute Franchisor’s current form of “Authorization Agreement for Prearranged Payments (Direct Debits),” a copy of which is attached to this Agreement as Exhibit D, and Franchisee shall comply the payment and reporting procedures specified by Franchisor in the Manual. Franchisee expressly acknowledges and agrees that Franchisee’s obligations for the full and timely payment of Royalty Fees and Advertising Contributions (and all other amounts provided for in this Agreement) shall be absolute, unconditional, fully earned, and due upon Franchisee’s generation and receipt of Net Sales. Franchisee shall not for any reason delay or withhold the payment of all or any part of those or any other payments due hereunder, put the same in escrow or set-off same against any claims or alleged claims Franchisee may allege against Franchisor, the System Ad Fund, the Market Ad Fund or others. Franchisee shall not, on grounds of any alleged non-performance by Franchisor or others, withhold payment of any fee, including without limitation Royalty Fees or advertising contributions, nor withhold or delay submission of any reports due hereunder including but not limited to Sales Reports.

      Designated Accountants and Fees . If required by Franchisor, Franchisee shall use a certified public accountant service designated or approved by Franchisor for bookkeeping and financial records management. Franchisee shall pay such service provider or Franchisor, as directed by Franchisor, a fee for these services for each month in such reasonable amount as the service provider or Franchisor may periodically designate.

      Additional Payments . Franchisee shall pay to Franchisor, within fifteen (15) days of any written request by Franchisor which is accompanied by reasonable substantiating material, any monies which Franchisor has paid, or has become obligated to pay, on behalf of Franchisee, by consent or otherwise under this Agreement.

      Overdue Payments and Reports . Any payment, contribution, statement, or report not actually received by Franchisor on or before such date shall be overdue. If any contribution or payment is overdue, Franchisee shall pay Franchisor immediately upon demand, in addition to the overdue amount: (i) a late payment fee in an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the overdue amount, and (ii) interest on the overdue amount from the date it was due until paid, at the rate of one and one-half percent (1.5%) per month, or the maximum rate permitted by law, whichever is less. Entitlement to such interest shall be in addition to any other remedies Franchisor may have.

      No Subordination . Franchisee shall not subordinate to any other obligation its obligation to pay Franchisor the royalties and/or any other fee or charge payable to Franchisor, whether under this Agreement or otherwise.

SITE, CONSTRUCTION AND OPENING OF BUSINESS

      Preparing a Location . Before commencing any construction of the Franchised Restaurant, Franchisee, at its expense, shall comply, to Franchisor’s satisfaction, with all of the following requirements:

           Franchisee shall employ a qualified, licensed architect or engineer who has been approved or designated (as described below) by Franchisor to prepare, subject to Franchisor’s approval, preliminary plans and specifications for site improvement and/or construction of the Franchised Restaurant based upon prototype plans and/or specifications furnished by Franchisor, as described in Section 3.1 above. Franchisor shall have the right to designate one or more suppliers of design services and/or architecture services to supply such services to the System. If Franchisor designates a design firm and/or architecture firm prior to the time Franchisee commences to develop the Franchised Restaurant, Franchisee shall employ such designated supplier(s) to prepare all designs and plans for the Franchised Restaurant, unless Franchisee obtains Franchisor’s prior written approval to use an alternative professional. If Franchisor has not designated a design firm or architecture firm, Franchisee shall be responsible for locating and employing a qualified design consultant and architect who is/are licensed in the jurisdiction in which the Franchised Restaurant will be located, and who is reputable and experienced in providing design and architecture services. Franchisee shall be solely responsible for payments for all design and architecture services. Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that Franchisor shall not be liable for the unsatisfactory performance of any contractor retained by Franchisee.

           Franchisee shall comply with all federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations, including the applicable provisions of the ADA regarding the construction, design and operation of the Franchised Restaurant. In the event Franchisee receives any complaint, claim, other notice alleging a failure to comply with the ADA, Franchisee shall provide Franchisor with a copy of such notice within five days after receipt thereof.

           Franchisee shall be responsible for obtaining all zoning classifications and clearances that may be required by state or local laws, ordinances, or regulations or that may be necessary or advisable owing to any restrictive covenants relating to the Approved Location. After having obtained such approvals and clearances, Franchisee shall

6


 

submit to Franchisor, for Franchisor’s approval, final plans for construction based upon the preliminary plans and specifications. Franchisor’s review and approval of plans shall be limited to review of such plans to assess compliance with Franchisor’s design standards for Cosi Restaurants, including such items as trade dress, presentation of Proprietary Marks, and the providing to the potential customer of certain products and services that are central to the functioning of Cosi Restaurants. Such review is not designed to assess compliance with federal, state or local laws and regulations, including the ADA, as compliance with such laws is the sole responsibility of Franchisee. Once approved by Franchisor, such final plans shall not thereafter be changed or modified without the prior written permission of Franchisor. Any such change made without Franchisor’s prior written permission shall constitute a default and Franchisor may withhold its authorization to open the Franchised Restaurant until the unauthorized change is rectified (or reversed) to Franchisor’s reasonable satisfaction. Prior to opening the Franchised Restaurant and prior to renovating the Franchised Restaurant after its initial opening, Franchisee shall execute an ADA Certification in the form attached to this Agreement as Exhibit B that certifies in writing to Franchisor that the Franchised Restaurant and any proposed renovations comply with the ADA.

           Franchisee shall obtain all permits and certifications required for the lawful construction and operation of the Franchised Restaurant and shall certify in writing to Franchisor that all such permits and certifications have been obtained.

           Franchisee shall employ a qualified licensed general contractor who is acceptable to Franchisor to construct the Franchised Restaurant and to complete all improvements. Franchisee shall obtain and maintain in force during the entire period of construction the insurance required under Section 14 below.

           Throughout the construction process, Franchisee shall comply with Franchisor’s requirements and procedures for periodic inspections of the Premises, and shall fully cooperate with Franchisor’s representatives in such inspections by rendering such assistance as they may reasonably request.

      Opening Date . Unless delayed by the occurrence of events constituting “force majeure” as defined in Section 5.3 below, Franchisee shall construct, furnish, and open the Franchised Restaurant in accordance with this Agreement and shall open the Franchised Restaurant not later than six (6) months after the Effective Date after the Approved Location is identified. Time is of the essence. Franchisee shall provide Franchisor with written notice of its specific intended opening date and Franchisee’s request for Franchisor’s approval to open on such date, by no later than thirty (30) days prior to such intended opening date. Additionally, Franchisee shall comply with all other of Franchisor’s pre-opening requirements, conditions and procedures (including, without limitation, those regarding pre-opening scheduling and communications), as set forth in this Agreement, the Manuals, and/or elsewhere in writing by Franchisor, Franchise and shall obtain Franchisor’s written approval prior to opening the Franchised Restaurant.

      Force Majeure . As used in this Agreement, “ force majeure ” means an act of God, war, civil disturbance, act of terrorism, government action, fire, flood, accident, hurricane, earthquake, or other calamity, strike or other labor dispute, or any other cause beyond the reasonable control of Franchisee; provided, however, force majeure shall not include Franchisee’s lack of adequate financing.

TRAINING

      Initial Training and Attendees . Before opening the Franchised Restaurant, Franchisee shall have satisfied all initial training obligations required by Franchisor, which are as follows:

           Franchisee (or, if Franchisee is other than an individual, the Designated Principal (defined in Section 8.3 below)), and, if applicable, the General Manager and up to two (2) additional persons as Franchisor may require, shall attend and successfully complete, to Franchisor’s satisfaction, the initial training program offered by Franchisor at a location designated by Franchisor (unless this Agreement is for the third or subsequent Cosi Restaurant being developed pursuant to a Cosi Area Development Agreement between Franchisor and Franchisee (or an affiliate of Franchisee), in which event the requirements set forth in Section 6.1.3 below shall apply with respect to the pre-opening training of Franchisee, the Designated Principal and any General Manager). If any required attendee does not satisfactorily complete such training, Franchisor may require that a replacement person attend and successfully complete, to Franchisor’s satisfaction, the initial training program.

           If Franchisee is other than an individual, Franchisor may require (in addition to the training of the Designated Principal and General Manager) that any or all owners of beneficial interests in Franchisee (each a “ Principal ”), who are individuals and own at least a ten percent (10%) beneficial interests in Franchisee, attend and successfully complete, to Franchisor’s satisfaction, such portions of the initial training program as determined by Franchisor appropriate for Principals not involved in the day-to-day operations of the Franchised Restaurant.

7


 

           If this Agreement is for the third or subsequent Cosi Restaurant being developed pursuant to a Cosi Area Development Agreement between Franchisor and Franchisee (or an affiliate of Franchisee), then Franchisee shall be responsible for the conducting the initial training of its Designated Principal, its General Manager (if applicable), and any other managerial personnel, in accordance with the requirements and conditions as Franchisor may from time to time establish for such training. Franchisor’s requirements for initial training by Franchisee shall be set forth in the Manuals or other written materials and shall include, but are not limited to, the requirement that all such training activities be conducted: (a) by the Principals or personnel of Franchisee (or an affiliate of Franchisee), who have completed Franchisor’s initial training program to the satisfaction of the Franchisor, and who remain acceptable to Franchisor to provide initial training; and (b) following the procedures and conditions established by Franchisor. If Franchisor determines that the training provided by Franchisee does not satisfy Franchisor’s standards and requirements, or that any newly trained individual is not trained to Franchisor’s standards, then Franchisor may require that such newly trained individual(s) attend and complete an initial training program provided by Franchisor prior to the opening of the Franchised Restaurant.

           Franchisee must satisfy all pre-opening training requirements under this Section 6.1 by no later than thirty (30) days prior to the schedule opening of the Franchised Restaurant.

      New or Replacement Designated Principal and Managers . In the event that Franchisee’s Designated Principal, or (if required) General Manager cease active employment in the Franchised Restaurant, Franchisee shall enroll a qualified replacement who is acceptable to Franchisor in Franchisor’s training program reasonably promptly following cessation of employment of said individual, provided that Franchisee may train replacement General Managers in accordance with Section 6.3 below. The replacement Designated Principal, and any required managers shall complete the initial training program as soon as is practicable and in no event later than any time periods as Franchisor may specify from time to time in the Manuals and otherwise in writing. Franchisor reserves the right to review any Franchisee trained personnel and require that such persons attend and complete, to the satisfaction of Franchisor, the initial training program offered by Franchisor at a location designated by Franchisor.

      Training by Franchisee of Additional or Replacement General Managers . Franchisee shall have the option of training any General Manager (following the training of the first General Manager by Franchisor) at the Franchised Restaurant or other Cosi Restaurant operated by Franchisee or its affiliates, provided that the training is conducted: (a) by the Designated Principal or other personnel who has completed Franchisor’s initial training program, to the satisfaction of the Franchisor (and who remain acceptable to Franchisor to provide such training); (b) in accordance with any requirements or standards as Franchisor may from time to time establish in writing for such training; and (c) Franchisee is in compliance with all agreements between Franchisee and Franchisor.

      Refresher Training . Franchisor may also require that Franchisee or its Designated Principal and General Manager attend such refresher courses, seminars, and other training programs as Franchisor may reasonably require from time to time, provided that such training shall not exceed seven (7) days per person each year, and attendance for up to three (3) days per person each year at conventions, if any, conducted for Franchisor’s franchisees.

      Training Costs . The cost of all training (instruction and required materials) shall be borne by Franchisor, except as provided in Section 6.7 below. All other expenses incurred in connection with training, including without limitation the costs of transportation, lodging, meals, wages, and worker’s compensation insurance, shall be borne by Franchisee.

      Location of Training . All training programs shall be at such times as may be designated by Franchisor. Training programs shall be provided at Franchisor’s headquarters and/or such other locations as Franchisor may designate.

      Additional On-site Training . If Franchisee requests that Franchisor provide additional on-site training or that any other training programs offered or required by Franchisor be conducted for Franchisee at the Franchised Restaurant, and Franchisor do so, then Franchisee agrees that it shall pay Franchisor’s then-current per diem charges and out-of-pocket expenses, which shall be as set forth in the Manual or otherwise in writing.

TECHNOLOGY

      Computer Systems and Required Software . The following terms and conditions shall apply with respect to the Computer System and Required Software:

           Franchisor shall have the right to specify or require that certain brands, types, makes, and/or models of communications, computer systems, and hardware to be used by, between, or among Cosi Restaurants, including without limitation: (a) back office and point of sale systems, data, audio, video, and voice storage, retrieval, and transmission systems for use at Cosi Restaurants, between or among Cosi Restaurants, and between and among the Franchised Restaurant and Franchisor and/or Franchisee; (b) Cash Register Systems; (c) physical, electronic, and other

8


 

security systems; (d) printers and other peripheral devices; (e) archival back-up systems; and (f) internet access mode and speed (collectively, the “ Computer System ”).

           Franchisor shall have the right, but not the obligation, to develop or have developed for it, or to designate: (a) computer software programs and accounting system software that Franchisee must use in connection with the Computer System (“ Required Software ”), which Franchisee shall install; (b) updates, supplements, modifications, or enhancements to the Required Software, which Franchisee shall install; (c) the tangible media upon which such Franchisee shall record data; and (d) the database file structure of Franchisee’s Computer System.

           Franchisee shall record all sales on computer-based point of sale systems approved by Franchisor or on such other types of cash registers as may be designated by Franchisor in the Manual or otherwise in writing (“ Cash Register Systems ”), which shall be deemed part of the Franchisee’s Computer System.

           Franchisee shall make, from time to time, such upgrades and other changes to the Computer System and Required Software as Franchisor may request in writing (collectively, “ Computer Upgrades ”).

           Franchisee shall comply with all specifications issued by Franchisor with respect to the Computer System and the Required Software, and with respect to Computer Upgrades. Franchisee shall also afford Franchisor unimpeded access to Franchisee’s Computer System and Required Software as Franchisor may request, in the manner, form, and at the times requested by Franchisor.

      Data . Franchisor may, from time-to-time, specify in the Manual or otherwise in writing the information that Franchisee shall collect and maintain on the Computer System installed at the Franchised Restaurant, and Franchisee shall provide to Franchisor such reports as Franchisor may reasonably request from the data so collected and maintained. All data pertaining to the Franchised Restaurant, and all data created or collected by Franchisee in connection with the System, or in connection with Franchisee’s operation of the business (including without limitation data pertaining to or otherwise concerning the Franchised Restaurant’s customers) or otherwise provided by Franchisee (including, without limitation, data uploaded to, or downloaded from Franchisee’s Computer System) is and will be owned exclusively by Franchisor, and Franchisor will have the right to use such data in any manner that Franchisor deems appropriate without compensation to Franchisee. Copies and/or originals of such data must be provided to Franchisor upon Franchisor’s request. Franchisor hereby licenses use of such data back to Franchisee for the term of this Agreement, at no additional cost, solely for Franchisee’s use in connection with the business franchised under this Agreement.

      Privacy . Franchisee shall abide by all applicable laws pertaining to privacy of information collected or maintained regarding customers or other individuals (“ Privacy ”), and shall comply with Franchisor’s standards and policies pertaining to Privacy. If there is a conflict between Franchisor’s standards and policies pertaining to Privacy and applicable law, Franchisee shall: (a) comply with the requirements of applicable law; (b) immediately give Franchisor written notice of said conflict; and (c) promptly and fully cooperate with Franchisor and Franchisor’s counsel as Franchisor may request to assist Franchisor in its determination regarding the most effective way, if any, to meet Franchisor’s standards and policies pertaining to Privacy within the bounds of applicable law.

      Telecommunications . Franchisee shall comply with Franchisor’s requirements (as set forth in the Manual or otherwise in writing) with respect to establishing and maintaining telecommunications connections between Franchisee’s Computer System and Franchisor’s Extranet (as defined below), if any, and/or such other computer systems as Franchisor may reasonably require.

      Extranet . Franchisor may establish a website providing private and secure communications between Franchisor, Franchisee, franchisees, licensees and other persons and entities as determined by Franchisor, in its sole discretion (an “ Extranet ”). Franchisee shall comply with Franchisor’s requirements (as set forth in the Manual or otherwise in writing) with respect to connecting to the Extranet, and utilizing the Extranet in connection with the operation of the Franchised Restaurant. The Extranet may include, without limitation, the Manuals, training other assistance materials, and management reporting solutions (both upstream and downstream, as Franchisor may direct). Franchisee shall purchase and maintain such computer software and hardware as may be required to connect to and utilize the Extranet.

      Websites . As used in this Agreement, the term “ Website ” means an interactive electronic document, series of symbols, or otherwise, that is contained in a network of computers linked by communications software. The term Website includes, but is not limited to, Internet and World Wide Web home pages. In connection with any Website, Franchisee agrees to the following:

           Franchisor shall have the right, but not the obligation, to establish and maintain a Website, which may, without limitation, promote the Proprietary Marks, any or all of the Products, Cosi Restaurants, the franchising of Cosi Restaurants, and/or the System. Franchisor shall have the sole right to control all aspects of the Website, including

9


 

without limitation its design, content, functionality, links to the websites of third parties, legal notices, and policies and terms of usage; Franchisor shall also have the right to discontinue operation of the website.

           Franchisor shall have the right, but not the obligation, to designate one or more web page(s) to describe Franchisee and/or the Franchised Restaurant, with such web page(s) to be located within Franchisor’s Website. Franchisee shall comply with Franchisor’s policies with respect to the creation, maintenance and content of any such webpages; and Franchisor’s shall have the right to refuse to post and/or discontinue posting any content and/or the operation of any webpage.

           Franchisee shall not establish a separate Website, without Franchisor’s prior written approval (which Franchisor shall not be obligated to provide). If approved to establish a Website, Franchisee shall comply with Franchisor’s policies, standards and specifications with respect to the creation, maintenance and content of any such Website. Franchisee specifically acknowledges and agrees that any Website owned or maintained by or for the benefit of Franchisee shall be deemed “advertising” under this Agreement, and will be subject to (among other things) Franchisor’s approval under Section 13 below.

           Franchisor shall have the right to modify the provisions of this Section 7 relating to Websites as Franchisor shall solely determine is necessary or appropriate.

      Online Use of Marks . Franchisee shall not use the Proprietary Marks or any abbreviation or other name associated with Franchisor and/or the System as part of any e-mail address, domain name, and/or other identification of Franchisee in any electronic medium. Franchisee agrees not to transmit or cause any other party to transmit advertisements or solicitations by e-mail or other electronic media without Franchisor’s prior written consent as to Franchisee’s plan for transmitting such advertisements.

      No Outsourcing without Prior Written Approval . Franchisee shall not hire third party or outside vendors to perform any services or obligations in connection with the Computer System, Required Software, or any other of Franchisee’s obligations without Franchisor’s prior written approval therefor. Franchisor’s consideration of any proposed outsourcing vendor(s) may be conditioned upon, among other things, such third party or outside vendor’s entry into a confidentiality agreement with Franchisor and Franchisee in a form that is reasonably provided by Franchisor.

      Changes to Technology . Franchisee and Franchisor acknowledge and agree that changes to technology are dynamic and not predictable within the term of this Agreement. In order to provide for inevitable but unpredictable changes to technological needs and opportunities, Franchisee agrees that Franchisor shall have the right to establish, in writing, reasonable new standards for the implementation of technology in the System; and Franchisee agrees that it shall abide by those reasonable new standards established by Franchisor as if this Section 7 were periodically revised by Franchisor for that purpose.

OTHER DUTIES OF FRANCHISEE

      Details of Operation . Franchisee understands and acknowledges that every detail of the System and this Agreement is important to Franchisee, Franchisor, and other franchisees in order to develop and maintain high operating, quality and service standards, to increase the demand for the Products sold by all operators, to protect Cosi Restaurants operating under the System, and to protect the reputation and goodwill of Franchisor.

      Comply with the Agreement, including the Manuals . Franchisee shall operate the Franchised Restaurant in strict conformity with this Agreement and such standards and specifications as Franchisor may from time to time prescribe in the Manuals or otherwise in writing, and shall refrain from deviating from such standards, specifications, and procedures without the prior written consent of Franchisor.

      Management of Business & Designated Principal . If Franchisee is other than an individual, prior to beginning training, Franchisee shall comply with the following:

           Franchisee shall designate, subject to Franchisor’s reasonable approval, one Principal who is both an individual person and owns at least a ten percent (10%) beneficial interest in Franchisee, and who shall be responsible for general oversight and management of the operations of the Franchised Restaurant on behalf of Franchisee (the “ Designated Principal ”). In the event the person designated as the Designated Principal dies, becomes incapacitated, transfers his/her interest in Franchisee, or otherwise ceases to supervise the operations of the Franchised Restaurant, Franchisee shall promptly designate a new Designated Principal, subject to Franchisor’s reasonable approval.

           Franchisee shall inform Franchisor in writing whether Franchisee (or, if Franchisee is other than an individual, the Designated Principal) will assume full-time responsibility for the daily supervision and operation of the

10


 

Franchised Restaurant. If not, Franchisee shall employ a full-time unit manager (the “ General Manager ”) whose qualifications shall be reasonably acceptable to Franchisor (including, but not limited to, the requirement that such individual possess sufficient experience in the management of a business) to assume full-time responsibility for the daily supervision and operation of the Franchised Restaurant.

           Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that Franchisor shall have the right to rely upon either or both the Designated Principal or General Manager to have been given by Franchisee the responsibility and decision-making authority regarding the Franchised Restaurant’s operation and Franchisee’s business.

      Staffing . Franchisee agrees to maintain a competent, conscientious, staff (who are trained by Franchisee to Franchisor’s standards and requirements) in numbers sufficient to promptly service customers and to take such steps as are necessary to ensure that its employees preserve good customer relations; render competent, prompt, courteous, and knowledgeable service; comply with such uniforms and/or dress code as Franchisor may prescribe; and meet such minimum standards as Franchisor may establish from time to time in the Manuals. In no way limiting the foregoing, Franchisee shall have on duty at all times at least one (1) manager and/or hourly employee trained in management activities, who has completed all training and certifications required by Franchisor. Franchisee shall be solely responsible for all employment decisions and functions of the Franchised Restaurant, including those related to hiring, firing, wage and hour requirements, recordkeeping, supervision, and discipline of employees.

      Use of Premises . Franchisee shall use the Premises solely for the operation of the Franchised Restaurant; shall keep the Franchised Restaurant open and in normal operation for such minimum hours and days as Franchisor may specify; shall refrain from using or permitting the use of the Premises for any other purpose or activity at any time without first obtaining the written consent of Franchisor. As described in Section 1.3 herein, Franchisee shall not engage in catering or delivery except with Franchisor’s prior written approval and only in accordance with the terms and conditions specified in writing by Franchisor, including without limitation guidelines and requirements relating to insurance coverage and vehicle use in such activities.

      Conformity to Standards . To insure that the highest degree of quality and service is maintained, Franchisee shall operate the Franchised Restaurant in strict conformity with such methods, standards, and specifications as Franchisor may from time to time prescribe in the Manuals or otherwise in writing. Without limitation, Franchisee agrees as follows:

           Franchisee shall purchase and install prior to the opening of the Franchised Restaurant, and thereafter maintain, all fixtures, furnishings, equipment, decor, and signs, and maintain in sufficient supply supplies and materials, as Franchisor may prescribe in the Manuals or otherwise in writing. Franchisee shall refrain from deviating therefrom by the use of any unapproved item without the prior written consent of Franchisor.

           Franchisee shall offer and sell only Products that Franchisor specifies from time to time, unless otherwise approved in writing by Franchisor; and Franchisee shall offer and sell all Products as Franchisor may specify from time to time as required offerings at the Franchised Restaurant. Franchisee shall offer and sell the Products utilizing the ingredients and employing the preparation standards and techniques, as specified by Franchisor. Franchisee is prohibited from offering or selling any products or services at or from the Franchised Restaurant that have not previously been authorized by Franchisor, and shall discontinue selling and offering for sale any Products which Franchisor shall have the right to disapprove, in writing, at any time. If Franchisee wishes to offer or sell any products or services that have not previously been authorized by Franchisor, Franchisee must first make a written request to Franchisor, requesting authorization to offer or sell such products or services in accordance with Section 8.7 below. Franchisor may deny such approval for any reason.

           Franchisee shall permit Franchisor or its agents, at any reasonable time, to remove samples of Products, without payment therefor, in amounts reasonably necessary for testing by Franchisor or an independent laboratory to determine whether said samples meet Franchisor’s then-current standards and specifications. In addition to any other remedies it may have under this Agreement, Franchisor may require Franchisee to bear the cost of such testing if the supplier of the item has not previously been approved by Franchisor or if the sample fails to conform to Franchisor’s specifications.

           Franchisee shall refrain from selling, offering to sell, or permitting any other party to sell or offer to sell beer, wine, or any form of liquor, without the advance written authorization of Franchisor (“ Alcoholic Beverages ”). Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that Alcoholic Beverages are optional Products and if approved by Franchisor to offer and sell Alcoholic Beverages at the Franchised Restaurant, Franchisee shall: (i) be solely responsible for complying with all with all laws and regulations relating to alcohol and alcohol service or preparation; (ii) shall comply with Franchisor’s standards, specifications and terms of Franchisor regarding the offer, sale, and presentation of Alcoholic Beverage, as approved Products, and shall obtain and maintain such additional insurance coverage as Franchisor may require pursuant to Section 14 of this Agreement.

11


 

           Franchisor may designate an independent evaluation service to conduct a “mystery shopper” quality control and evaluation program with respect to Franchisor or affiliate-owned and/or franchised Cosi Restaurants. Franchisee agrees that the Franchised Restaurant will participate in such mystery shopper program, as prescribed and required by Franchisor, provided that Franchisor-owned, affiliate-owned, and franchised Cosi Restaurants also will participate in such program to the extent Franchisor has the right to require such participation. Franchisor shall have the right to require Franchisee to pay the then-current charges imposed by such evaluation service with respect to inspections of the Franchised Restaurant, and Franchisee agrees that it shall promptly pay such charges; provided, however, that such charges shall not exceed Five Hundred Dollars ($500) during each year of this Agreement.

           Franchisee shall participate in all customer surveys and satisfaction audits, which may require that Franchisee provide discount or complimentary Products, provided that such discounted or complimentary sales shall not be included in the Net Sales of the Franchised Restaurant. Additionally, Franchisee shall participate in any complaint resolution and other programs as Franchisor may reasonably establish for the System, which programs may include, without limitation, providing discounts or refunds to customers.

      Purchases and Approved Suppliers . Franchisee shall purchase all equipment, fixtures, furnishings, signs, décor, supplies, services, and products (including the Products) required for the establishment and operation of the Franchised Restaurant from suppliers designated or approved in writing by Franchisor (as used in this Section 8.7 the term “supplier” shall include manufacturers, distributors and other forms of suppliers). In determining whether it will approve any particular supplier, Franchisor shall consider various factors, including but not limited to whether the supplier can demonstrate, to Franchisor’s continuing reasonable satisfaction, the ability to meet Franchisor’s then-current standards and specifications for such items; who possess adequate quality controls and capacity to supply Franchisee’s needs promptly and reliably; whose approval would enable the System, in Franchisor’s sole opinion, to take advantage of marketplace efficiencies; and who have been approved in writing by Franchisor prior to any purchases by Franchisee from any such supplier, and have not thereafter been disapproved. Franchisor reserves the right to designate, at any time and for any reason, a single supplier for any equipment, supplies, services, or products (including any Products) and to require Franchisee to purchase exclusively from such designated supplier, which exclusive designated supplier may be Franchisor or an affiliate of Franchisor.

           Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, Franchisee shall purchase all of its requirements for Proprietary Products (which may include, but are not limited to dressings, spreads, coffee, and coffee beans, bread mixtures, meat ingredients) from Franchisor’s designee(s), as set forth in Section 8.8 below (through such distributor or distributors as Franchisor may designate). Franchisor shall have the right to introduce additional, substitute new, or discontinue Proprietary Products from time to time.

           If Franchisee desires to purchase any Products (except for Proprietary Products) or other items, equipment, supplies, services from suppliers other than those previously designated or approved by Franchisor, Franchisee must first submit to Franchisor a written request for authorization to purchase such items. Franchisee shall not purchase from any supplier until, and unless, such supplier has been approved in writing by Franchisor. Franchisor may deny such approval for any reason, including its determination to limit the number of approved suppliers. Franchisee must submit to Franchisor such information and samples as Franchisor may reasonably require, and Franchisor shall have the right to require periodically that its representatives be permitted to inspect such items and/or supplier’s facilities, and that samples from the proposed supplier, or of the proposed items, be delivered for evaluation and testing either to Franchisor or to an independent testing facility designated by Franchisor. Permission for such inspections shall be a condition of the initial and continued approval of such supplier. A charge not to exceed the reasonable cost of the evaluation and testing shall be paid by Franchisee. Franchisor may also require that the supplier comply with such other requirements as Franchisor may deem appropriate, including payment of reasonable continuing inspection fees and administrative costs, or other payment to Franchisor by the supplier on account of their dealings with Franchisee or other franchisees, for use, without restriction (unless otherwise instructed by the supplier) and for services that Franchisor may render to such suppliers.

           Franchisor reserves the right, at its option, to reinspect from time to time the facilities and products of any such approved supplier and to revoke its approval upon the supplier’s failure to continue to meet any of Franchisor’s then-current criteria. Upon receipt of written notice of such revocation, Franchisee shall cease to sell or use any disapproved item, Products and/or cease to purchase from any disapproved supplier.

           Nothing in the foregoing shall be construed to require Franchisor to approve any particular supplier, nor to require Franchisor to make available to prospective suppliers, standards and specifications for formulas, which Franchisor shall have the right to deem confidential.

12


 

           Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that, at Franchisor’s sole option, Franchisor may establish one or more strategic alliances or preferred vendor programs with one or more nationally or regionally-known suppliers who are willing to supply all or some Cosi Restaurants with some or all of the products and/or services that Franchisor requires for use and/or sale in the development and/or operation of Cosi Restaurants. In this event, Franchisor may limit the number of approved suppliers with whom Franchisee may deal, designate sources that Franchisee must use for some or all Products and other products and services, and/or refuse any of Franchisee’s requests if Franchisor believes that this action is in the best interests of the System or the franchised network of Cosi Restaurants. Franchisor shall have unlimited discretion to approve or disapprove of the suppliers who may be permitted to sell Products to Franchisee.

           Franchisor and its affiliates may receive payments or other compensation from suppliers on account of such suppliers’ dealings with Franchisee and other franchisees; and Franchisor may use all amounts so received for any purpose Franchisor and its affiliates deem appropriate.

      Proprietary Products . Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that the Proprietary Products offered and sold at Cosi Restaurants are manufactured in accordance with secret blends, standards, and specifications of Franchisor and/or Franchisor’s affiliates, and are Proprietary Products of Franchisor and/or its affiliates. In order to maintain the high standards of quality, taste, and uniformity associated with Proprietary Products sold at all Cosi Restaurants in the System, Franchisee agrees to purchase Proprietary Products only from Franchisor, or its designee(s), and not to offer or sell any other items not approved by Franchisor at or from the Franchised Restaurant. In connection with the handling, storage, transport and delivery of any Proprietary Products purchased from Franchisor, its affiliates or designee(s), Franchisee acknowledges that any action or inaction by any third party (e.g., an independent carrier) in connection with the handling, storage, transport and delivery of the Proprietary Products shall not be attributable to nor constitute negligence of Franchisor. A request shall not be approved unless and until Franchisee receives written approval from Franchisor.

      Inspections . Franchisee shall permit Franchisor and its agents to enter upon the Premises at any time during normal business hours for the purpose of conducting inspections of the Premises and the operations, of Franchisee. Franchisee shall cooperate with representatives of the standards of in such inspections by rendering such assistance as they may reasonably request; and, upon notice from Franchisor or its agents, and without limiting other rights of Franchisor under this Agreement, shall take such steps as may be necessary to correct immediately any deficiencies detected during any such inspection. Should Franchisee, for any reason, fail to correct such deficiencies within a reasonable time as determined by Franchisor, Franchisor shall have the right, but not the obligation, to correct any deficiencies which may be susceptible to correction by Franchisor and to charge Franchisee the actual expenses of Franchisor in so acting, which shall be payable by Franchisee upon demand. The foregoing shall be in addition to such other remedies Franchisor may have.

      Trademarked Items . Franchisee shall ensure that all advertising and promotional materials, signs, decorations, paper goods (including wrapping and containers for products, napkins, menus and all forms and stationery used in the Franchised Restaurant), Products, and other items specified by Franchisor bear the Proprietary Marks in the form, color, location, and manner prescribed by Franchisor. Franchisee shall place and illuminate all signs in accordance with Franchisor’s specifications.

      Participation in Promotions . Franchisee shall participate in promotional programs developed by Franchisor for the System, in the manner directed by Franchisor in the Manuals or otherwise in writing, to the extent such promotional programs do not directly affect Franchisee’s pricing freedom. In no way limiting the foregoing, Franchisee agrees that if required by Franchisor:

           Franchisee shall participate in all programs and services for frequent customers, senior citizens, children, an other categories, which may include providing discount or complimentary Products.

           Franchisee shall sell or otherwise issue gift cards or certificates (together “ Gift Cards ”) that have been prepared utilizing the standard form of Gift Card provided or designated by Franchisor, and only in the manner specified by Franchisor in the Manual or otherwise in writing. Franchisee shall fully honor all Gift Cards that are in the form provided or approved by Franchisor regardless of whether a Gift Card was issued by Franchisee or another Cosi Restaurant. Franchisee shall sell, issue, and redeem (without any offset against any Royalty Fees) Gift Cards in accordance with procedures and policies specified by Franchisor in the Manual or otherwise in writing, including those relating to procedures by which Franchisee shall request reimbursement for Gift Cards issued by other Cosi Restaurants and for making timely payment to Franchisor, other operators of Cosi Restaurants, or a third-party service provider for Gift Cards issued from the Franchised Restaurant that are honored by Franchisor or other Cosi Restaurant operators.

      Health /Standards . Franchisee shall meet and maintain the highest health standards and ratings applicable to the operation of the Franchised Restaurant under the Manuals and applicable health ordinances. Franchisee shall also

13


 

comply with the requirements set forth in the Manuals for submitting to Franchisor a copy of a violation or citation relating to Franchisee’s failure to maintain any health or safety standards in the operation of the Franchised Restaurant.

      Maintenance of Premises . Franchisee shall maintain the Franchised Restaurant and the Premises in a clean, orderly condition and in excellent repair; and, in connection therewith, Franchisee shall, at its expense, make such repairs and replacements thereto (but no others without prior written consent of Franchisor) as may be required for that purpose, including such periodic repainting or replacement of obsolete signs, furnishings, equipment, and decor as Franchisor may reasonably direct.

      Ongoing Upgrades and Refurbishments . As set forth in Section 8.6.1, throughout the term of this Agreement, Franchisee shall maintain all fixtures, furnishings, equipment, decor, and signs as Franchisor may prescribe from time to time in the Manuals or otherwise in writing. Franchisee shall make such changes, upgrades, refurbishment, and replacements as Franchisor may periodically require, in the time frames specified by Franchisor.

      Five-Year Refurbishment and Renovations . At the request of Franchisor, but not more often than once every five (5) years, unless sooner required by Franchisee’s lease, Franchisee shall refurbish the Premises, at its expense, to conform to the restaurant design, trade dress, color schemes, and presentation of the Proprietary Marks in a manner consistent with the then-current image for new Cosi Restaurants. Such refurbishment may include structural changes, installation of new equipment and signs, remodeling, redecoration, and modifications to existing improvements, and shall be completed pursuant to such standards, specifications and deadlines as Franchisor may specify.

      Compliance with Lease . Franchisee shall comply with all terms of its lease or sublease, its financing agreements (if any), and all other agreements affecting the operation of the Franchised Restaurant; shall undertake best efforts to maintain a good and positive working relationship with its landlord and/or lessor; and shall not engage in any activity which may jeopardize Franchisee’s right to remain in possession of, or to renew the lease or sublease for, the Premises.

      Obligations to Third Parties . Franchisee must at all times pay its distributors, contractors, suppliers, trade creditors, employees and other creditors promptly as the debts and obligations to such persons become due, and failure to do so shall constitute a breach of this Agreement.

      Notice of Legal Actions . Franchisee shall notify Franchisor in writing within five (5) days of the commencement of any suit to foreclose any lien or mortgage, or 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, including health agencies, which (i) relates to the operation of the Franchised Restaurant, (ii) may adversely affect the operation or financial condition of the Franchised Restaurant, or (iii) may adversely affect Franchisee’s financial condition.

      No Relocation . Franchisee shall not relocate the Franchised Restaurant from the Approved Location without the prior written approval of Franchisor. If Franchisee desires to relocate the Franchised Restaurant, the following terms and conditions shall apply:

           Franchisee shall submit such materials and information as Franchisor may request for the evaluation of the requested plan of relocation. Franchisor may, in its sole discretion, require any or all of the following as conditions of its approval for relocation: (i) Franchisee not be in default under any provision of this Agreement, or any other agreement between Franchisee and Franchisor; (ii) the proposed substitute location meets Franchisor’s then-current standards for Cosi Restaurants; (iii) the lease (if applicable) for the proposed substitute location must comply with Franchisor’s then-current lease requirements for Cosi Restaurants (which may include the requirement that the lease contain certain terms and conditions, which be different than, or in addition to, those terms Franchisor required as of the Effective Date with respect to the Approved Location), and Franchisee must obtain Franchisor’s approval of the proposed lease; (iv) Franchisee must possess the financial resources to meet the costs associated with relocating; (v) Franchisee enter into Franchisor then-current form of Franchise Agreement (which shall replace this Agreement), provided that Franchisee shall not be required to pay an initial fee; and (vi) Franchisee pay a relocation fee equal to twenty five percent (25%) of Franchisor’s then-current initial franchise fee.

           If, through no fault of Franchisee, the Premises are damaged or destroyed by an event such that repairs or reconstruction cannot be completed within sixty (60) days thereafter, then Franchisee shall have forty five (45) days after such event in which to apply for Franchisor’s approval to relocate and/or reconstruct the Premises, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld and, in such event, the relocation fee described in Section 8.19.1 above shall not apply.

      Franchisee Advisory Councils . If Franchisor should, during the term of this Agreement, form or require the formation of a franchisee advisory council or association (hereinafter “ Advisory Council ”) or such successor council or association to serve as an advisory council to Franchisor with respect to advertising, marketing, and other matters relating to franchised Cosi Restaurants, Franchisee shall become a member of the Advisory Council. In such event, Franchisee

14


 

shall pay to the Advisory Council all dues and assessments authorized by the Advisory Council and shall otherwise abide by the rules and regulations of the Advisory Council and shall at all times maintain its membership in the Advisory Council in good standing.

      Changes to the System . Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that from time to time hereafter Franchisor may change or modify the System presently identified by the Proprietary Marks, as Franchisor deems appropriate, including without limitation to reflect the changing market and to meet new and changing consumer demands, and that variations and additions to the System may be required from time to time to preserve and enhance the public image of the System and operations of Cosi Restaurants. Changes to the System may include, without limitation, the adoption and use of new, modified, or substituted products, services, equipment and furnishings and new techniques and methodologies, and (as described in Section 9 below) additional or substitute trademarks, service marks and copyrighted materials. Franchisee shall, upon reasonable notice, accept, implement, use and display in the operation of the Franchised Restaurant any such changes in the System, as if they were part of this Agreement at the time of execution hereof, at Franchisee’s sole expense. Additionally, Franchisor reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to vary the standards throughout the System, as well as the services and assistance that Franchisor may provide to some franchisees based upon the peculiarities of a particular site or circumstance, existing business practices, or other factors that Franchisor deems to be important to the operation of any Cosi Restaurant or the System. Franchisee shall have no recourse against Franchisor on account of any variation to any franchisee and shall not be entitled to require Franchisor to provide Franchisee with a like or similar variation hereunder.

      Modifications Proposed by Franchisee . Franchisee shall not implement any change to the System (including the use of any product or supplies not already approved by Franchisor) without Franchisor’s prior written consent. Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that, with respect to any change, amendment, or improvement in the System or use of additional product or supplies for which Franchisee requests Franchisor’s approval: (i) Franchisor shall have the right to incorporate the proposed change into the System and shall thereupon obtain all right, title, and interest therein without compensation to Franchisee, (ii) Franchisor shall not be obligated to approve or accept any request to implement change, and (iii) Franchisor may from time to time revoke its approval of particular change or amendment to the System, and upon receipt of written notice of such revocation, Franchisee shall modify its activities in the manner described by Franchisor.

PROPRIETARY MARKS

      Ownership . Franchisor represents with respect to the Proprietary Marks that:

           Franchisor is the owner of all right, title, and interest in and to the Proprietary Marks.

           Franchisor will take all steps reasonably necessary to preserve and protect the ownership and validity in and to the Proprietary Marks.

      License to Franchisee . Franchisee’s right to use the Proprietary Marks is limited to such uses as are authorized under this Agreement, and any unauthorized use thereof shall constitute an infringement of rights of Franchisor.

      Terms of Franchisee’s Usage . With respect to Franchisee’s use of the Proprietary Marks, Franchisee agrees to:

           Use only the Proprietary Marks designated by Franchisor, and to use them only in the manner authorized and permitted by Franchisor;

           Franchisee shall use the Proprietary Marks only for the operation of the business franchised hereunder and only at the location authorized hereunder, or in Franchisor-approved advertising for the business conducted at or from that location;

           Operate and advertise the Franchised Restaurant only under the name “Cosi,” and use the Proprietary Marks without prefix or suffix, unless otherwise authorized or required by Franchisor.

           Franchisee shall not use the Proprietary Marks as part of its corporate or other legal name, or as part of any e-mail address, domain name, or other identification of Franchisee in any electronic medium. Franchisee may, as necessary to conduct the business of the Franchised Restaurant and to obtain governmental licenses and permits for the Franchised Restaurant, indicate that Franchisee shall be operating the Franchised Restaurant under the trade name “Cosi,” provided that Franchisee shall also clearly identify itself as the owner and operator of the Franchised Restaurant;

           Identify itself as the owner of the Franchised Restaurant (in the manner required by Franchisor) in conjunction with any use of the Proprietary Marks, including on invoices, order forms, receipts, and business stationery, as well as at such conspicuous locations on the Premises as Franchisor may designate in writing;

15


 

           Not to use the Proprietary Marks to incur any obligation or indebtedness on behalf of Franchisor;

           Execute any documents deemed necessary by Franchisor to obtain


 
SITE SEARCH

AGREEMENTS / CONTRACTS

Document Title:

Entire Document: (optional)

Governing Law:(optional)


Try our advanced search >>
 

CLAUSES

Search Contract Clauses >>

Browse Contract Clause Library>>

Get Email Updates
Email:
This is only a partial view of this document. We have millions of legal documents and clauses drafted by top law firms. learn more search for free browse for free learn more