What is the estimated cost range to acquire the required computer system for an Apricot Lane franchise?
Apricot_Lane Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
to you.
Computer Systems
You must use computer hardware and software meeting our specifications that is compatible with our system, including a software program for point of sale which tracks and collects all pertinent data of inventory, vendors, customers, sales transactions and inventory orders. The system includes an Apple Mac microprocessor and compatible software applications and accessories including monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, modem, receipt printer, bar code scanner, bar code label printer, Microsoft Office, and point of sale and inventory management software. You will also use this computer system to access the COUNTRY VISIONS intranet and receive information from COUNTRY VISIONS, such as updates to the Confidential Operations Manual. The estimated cost to acquire this system is from $9,000 to $12,000.
Third party companies distribute the hardware and software for our required computer system. COUNTRY VISIONS has not approved any other hardware or software programs; however, we will review and consider any equivalent hardware components or software programs.
In all cases, you will need a computer for various functions. Using our specified computer system means your system will be compatible with ours and that you will have full access to the ongoing support we provide, much of which is made available through electronic means.
You are responsible for maintenance and repair of your computer system. You are not required to spend more than 1% of your annual gross revenue or more than $5,000 per year, whichever is less on maintenance and repair costs for your Franchised Business, including the computer system. Many vendors offer ongoing maintenance, repairs, upgrades or updates under warranties and maintenance contracts. For the point of sale and inventory management software program you must pay $145 monthly subscription fee (for an annual cost of $1,740) and upgrade as specified by COUNTRY VISIONS.. Maximum upgrades are twice a year at a total cost of $500 per year.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 22–30)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Apricot Lane's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must acquire a computer system that meets the franchisor's specifications. This system must be compatible with Apricot Lane's system, including software for point of sale to track data related to inventory, vendors, customers, sales, and orders. The required system includes an Apple Mac microprocessor, compatible software applications, and accessories such as a monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, modem, receipt printer, bar code scanner, bar code label printer, Microsoft Office, and point of sale and inventory management software.
The estimated cost to acquire this computer system ranges from $9,000 to $12,000. Franchisees will also use this computer system to access the COUNTRY VISIONS intranet and receive information from COUNTRY VISIONS, such as updates to the Confidential Operations Manual.
Apricot Lane specifies that third-party companies distribute the hardware and software for the required computer system. While Apricot Lane has not approved any other hardware or software programs, they will review and consider equivalent hardware components or software programs that a franchisee may propose. Franchisees are also responsible for the ongoing costs of the point of sale and inventory management software program, which includes a $145 monthly subscription fee (totaling $1,740 annually) and potential upgrade costs of up to $500 per year, with a maximum of two upgrades annually.