Can COUNTRY VISIONS change the 'System' that Apricot Lane franchisees use?
Apricot_Lane Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisees use our formats, procedures, methods and techniques collectively called the "System" which we may change, improve and further develop in our discretion.
Should COUNTRY VISIONS change or modify the System, including the adoption and use of new or modified trade names, trademarks, service marks or copyrighted materials, new computer systems, new inventory items, new merchandising techniques, new equipment or new techniques, you will be required to accept, use and display these changes in the System as if they were part of the Franchise Agreement at the time you signed it. You will make expenditures as are reasonably required by these changes in the System, including changes in the Marks; however, your expenditures for these and other System modifications are limited as noted in Item 8 of this Disclosure Document. You shall not change, modify or alter the System in any way, except as directed by COUNTRY VISIONS.
Source: Item 1 — THE FRANCHISOR AND ANY PARENTS, PREDECESSORS AND AFFILIATES (FDD pages 8–9)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Apricot Lane's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, COUNTRY VISIONS, Inc., as the franchisor, has the authority to modify the 'System' that franchisees use. The 'System' encompasses the formats, procedures, methods, and techniques that Apricot Lane provides to franchisees for operating their stores. This includes the Confidential Operations Manual, which contains detailed guidelines.
This means that Apricot Lane franchisees must adapt to changes, improvements, and further developments that COUNTRY VISIONS makes to the System. These changes can include new or modified trade names, trademarks, service marks, copyrighted materials, computer systems, inventory items, merchandising techniques, and equipment. Franchisees are required to accept, use, and display these changes as if they were part of the original Franchise Agreement.
While franchisees are obligated to implement these changes, there are limitations on how much COUNTRY VISIONS can require them to spend on System modifications. According to Item 8, franchisees cannot be required to spend more than 2% of their average annual Gross Revenues or $15,000 during the initial term of the franchise, whichever is less, for these modifications. Franchisees are also responsible for maintaining and repairing the premises, but cannot be required to spend more than 1% of gross revenue or $5,000 in any calendar year, whichever is less, on maintenance and repair.
This flexibility allows Apricot Lane to keep the brand current and competitive, but it also places a responsibility on franchisees to stay updated and invest in the evolving System. Prospective franchisees should factor in potential costs associated with these changes when evaluating the franchise opportunity.