Franchisee Onboarding

Here's the pre-opening sequence for Phoenix. Start the two long-lead items now; the rest can run in parallel once those are moving.

1. Submit the equipment order (start today). The approved equipment package must be ordered through a listed vendor, and lead time runs 6–8 weeks (Ops Manual §5.2). This is the single item most likely to push your opening date, so it goes first.
2. File your local permits. Phoenix requires a health permit and a certificate of occupancy before opening; the manual lists both plus the sign permit, and notes the health inspection can't be scheduled until buildout is substantially complete (Ops Manual §3.1). Budget 3–4 weeks.
3. Complete owner certification. You must finish the franchisor's owner training and pass the operations assessment before you can open (Ops Manual §4.1). Book this for weeks 2–3.
4. Hire and certify staff. All staff need food-handler certification, and at least one manager per shift must hold the safety certification (Ops Manual §4.3). Start hiring once your buildout date is firm.
5. Pass the pre-opening inspection. Your field consultant runs a brand-standards walkthrough 5–7 days before opening; the checklist is in §3.4. Everything above has to be done before this.

The two dates that gate everything are the equipment order (§5.2) and the health permit and occupancy sign-off (§3.1). If either slips, opening day moves with it, so those are the two to start this week.