Must an Apricot Lane franchisee contract directly with a visual merchandiser selected by COUNTRY VISIONS?
Apricot_Lane Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
required to carry. You will also contract directly with a visual merchandiser selected and scheduled by COUNTRY VISIONS from its approved supplier list. Typical fees range from $350 to $550 per day plus expenses.
If COUNTRY VISIONS or anyone we authorize develops private-label or exclusive merchandise, whether or not under the Marks, you must carry it and keep a representative selection of the products at all times.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 17–20)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Apricot Lane's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to contract directly with a visual merchandiser. This merchandiser will be selected and scheduled by COUNTRY VISIONS from its approved supplier list. The fees for this service typically range from $350 to $550 per day, in addition to any incurred expenses.
This requirement ensures that all Apricot Lane stores maintain a consistent brand image and merchandising strategy, as the visual merchandiser is chosen and managed by COUNTRY VISIONS. By mandating the use of a specific visual merchandiser, Apricot Lane aims to control the presentation of merchandise and overall store aesthetics, which they believe is crucial for driving sales and maintaining brand standards.
For a prospective franchisee, this means they must budget for these visual merchandising costs in addition to other operating expenses. While the franchisor selects the merchandiser, the franchisee is responsible for paying their fees and expenses directly. This arrangement gives Apricot Lane control over visual merchandising standards while placing the financial responsibility on the franchisee. It is important to note that COUNTRY VISIONS does not permit franchisees to contract with suppliers outside of their approved list.