Waters Edge Wineries
Waters Edge Wineries franchises offer winemaking, wine sales, bistro dining, and related accessories in a single-store format. Known for combining vineyard culture with casual dining, this franchise operates in the wine and hospitality industries.
Waters Edge Wineries franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of a WATERS EDGE WINERY & BISTRO Store ranges from $577,295 to $1,335,899. This range includes both starting up a new store and purchasing an existing one [p.1].
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee varies based on the number of stores. For the first store, it is $20,000 plus an additional amount that is not specified in the excerpts [p.82]. For subsequent stores, the fee decreases; for the second store, it is 75% of the current initial franchise fee, and for the third store, it is 50% [p.10]. This isn't specified in the provided excerpts for other numbers of stores.
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The ongoing royalty fee is 6% of Gross Sales after the first twelve months [p.83]. The Advertising Fee is paid into an Advertising Fund managed by the franchisor, which has discretion over expenditures [p.82]. This isn't specified in the excerpts for exact amounts or percentages beyond stating that fees are collected and placed in this fund.
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The initial term of the franchise agreement is not specified in the excerpts. However, you may renew the agreement for an additional term of 10 years if certain conditions are met, as outlined on page [p.73].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
Yes, you can sell or transfer your franchise, but it requires your franchisor's consent [p.111]. If there's a right of first refusal, you must offer to sell the franchise to the franchisor before selling to any third party [p.91]. This isn't specified in the excerpts.
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor has the right to terminate the franchise agreement if there is a breach by the franchisee, such as failure to execute required documents or commence business as required [p.51]. Additionally, termination may occur due to other breaches specified in the Franchise Agreement [p.93].
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
No, you do not receive an exclusive territory. You may face competition from other franchisees, outlets owned by the company, or other channels of distribution or competitive brands that the company controls [p.31, p.155].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides initial training that includes custom winery system training and other pre-opening assistance before the store opens. Ongoing, they may require you and your General Manager to attend additional training at their expense if there is a default related to operational standards [p.81]. This could include food handler certification training for employees handling food and food management training for managers [p.81]. The franchisor also has the right to require further training for new General Managers within a reasonable time as specified [p.81].
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
As of December 31, 2024, there were 10 operating franchised outlets [p.40]. The FDD does not specify the number of closed or terminated outlets; it only provides information on the performance of existing stores [p.39-42].
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
Yes, the franchisor shares financial performance information for its operating franchised outlets. According to [p.40], as of December 31, 2024, data is provided for 9 franchised locations that had been open for at least 12 full months. This information includes monthly business amounts reported by franchisees and is based on the gross sales figures detailed in [p.41].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are not strictly restricted to selling specific products, but the franchise agreement may prohibit you from operating a similar business during the term of the franchise. Additionally, you must purchase all products used in the operation of your Store from suppliers approved in writing by the franchisor [p.19]. This includes items like inventory, equipment, and other supplies necessary to operate the store as specified on the Approved Supplies List [p.76] and [p.31].