What aspects are specifically excluded from Apricot Lane's review and approval of the franchisee's final plans and specifications?
Apricot_Lane Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
FRANCHISEE is responsible for securing final working drawings from a licensed architect or designer (see Section 5.B) for all such work for the Premises. All final plans and specifications must be submitted to and approved by FRANCHISOR prior to FRANCHISEE causing any work to commence. FRANCHISOR will review such plans and specifications promptly, and where appropriate, provide comments. Such review and approval by FRANCHISOR will be limited to items and issues relating to the System and is not intended to represent an approval of items such as the building structure, mechanical, electrical or plumbing systems, or accuracy of the documents.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 51–222)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Apricot Lane's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Apricot Lane's review and approval of a franchisee's final plans and specifications are limited. While Apricot Lane does review the plans to ensure they align with the brand's system requirements, their approval does not extend to certain critical aspects of the construction.
Specifically, Apricot Lane's review does not constitute an approval of the building's structure, mechanical systems, electrical systems, or plumbing systems. Furthermore, Apricot Lane's approval does not guarantee the accuracy of the construction documents themselves. It is the franchisee's responsibility to ensure that all plans and specifications are accurate and compliant with local building codes and regulations.
This means that while Apricot Lane focuses on maintaining brand consistency and operational standards, the franchisee bears the ultimate responsibility for the structural integrity, safety, and regulatory compliance of their Apricot Lane store. Franchisees should engage qualified professionals to ensure these aspects are thoroughly addressed during the planning and construction phases.