Central Bark Franchise

Financing Details

Central Bark does not offer any direct or indirect financing to its franchisees. Central Bark also does not guarantee any notes, leases, or other obligations for its franchisees.

Litigation Summary

Central Bark's predecessor, Barkley Ventures, Inc., was involved in one arbitration case in October 2013 with a former franchisee, Canine Investments, Inc. The predecessor sued the former franchisee for breaching the franchise agreement, trademark infringement, and unfair competition after the agreement was terminated. The former franchisee countersued, alleging wrongful termination and violation of the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law. In May 2014, an arbitrator issued an award, granting Central Bark's predecessor a permanent injunction against the former franchisee for continued use of the brand name and marks, and also awarded the former franchisee $100,000 in damages and attorney's fees because the termination violated the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law. The arbitration award was confirmed in August 2014 by the Wisconsin Circuit Court. Central Bark has no other litigation required to be disclosed.

Renewal Conditions

To renew their Central Bark franchise, franchisees must provide timely notice to the franchisor, remain in full compliance with their agreement and all brand standards, maintain possession of their business premises or secure an approved substitute location, and agree to remodel or expand their facility to meet current Central Bark standards, regardless of the cost. They must also pay a renewal fee and sign the then-current version of the franchise agreement and other required documents, which may have terms materially different from their previous agreement.

Staffing Notes

A Central Bark facility must be managed by the franchisee or a designated Managing Owner. A Managing Owner is an individual who holds at least a 51% ownership interest and voting power in the franchisee entity and acts as its chief executive officer. If the franchisee and its affiliates own two or more Central Bark facilities, they may hire a Designated Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations. This Designated Manager must be approved by Central Bark, complete the initial training program to Central Bark's satisfaction, and execute a confidentiality agreement. Unlike a Managing Owner, a Designated Manager is not required to have an ownership interest in the franchisee entity. Central Bark franchisees are responsible for hiring all employees for their facility and for establishing their terms of employment, including compensation, hours, and work assignments. Central Bark facilities must always maintain a sufficient number of trained employees to ensure operations comply with Central Bark's standards. Franchisees are required to implement an employee training program focused on the handling and care of canines, adhering to Central Bark's specific requirements. If there is a change in the Managing Owner, a new one must be identified within 30 days and must complete the initial training program within 30 days of their appointment. The initial training program for the franchisee (or Managing Owner) and any Designated Manager is 10 days long, typically conducted in Franklin, Wisconsin, or virtually. This training covers essential aspects of operating a Central Bark facility, including financial controls, accounting setup, marketing techniques, purchasing, animal care, customer service, quality standards, human resources (such as recruitment, retention, paperwork, and employee training), computer systems, and general operational procedures. Central Bark also provides 5 days of opening assistance, including one operational staff member, to help the franchisee standardize procedures and train personnel during the initial operation period.