If there are no specifications addressing particular merchandise, what must an Apricot Lane franchisee ensure?
Apricot_Lane Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
If there are no specifications or standards addressing the particular merchandise, product or materials you wish to offer or use, you must nevertheless ensure that all merchandise, products and materials sold or used in the Franchised Business are of a high quality and consistent with our image. We may in our sole discretion require you to discontinue offering or using any merchandise, product or materials that in our opinion are inconsistent with this requirement. We do not currently maintain any procedure for you to obtain our approval of any item that is not covered by our specifications and standards or which is not on our list of approved merchandise or suppliers.
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, if there are no specific standards for merchandise, products, or materials a franchisee wishes to offer or use, the franchisee must ensure that all items sold or used in the franchised business are of high quality and consistent with Apricot Lane's image. Apricot Lane retains the right to require a franchisee to stop offering or using any merchandise, product, or material that it deems inconsistent with this requirement.
Notably, Apricot Lane does not currently have a procedure for a franchisee to obtain approval for any item not covered by existing specifications, standards, or the approved merchandise/supplier list. This means that if a franchisee wants to introduce a new product, and it falls outside the pre-approved categories, there isn't a formal process outlined for getting it approved.
This lack of a formal approval process places the onus on the franchisee to make sound judgments about new merchandise, ensuring it aligns with the brand's quality and image. It also means the franchisee bears the risk of being told to discontinue a product if Apricot Lane later deems it unsuitable. Prospective franchisees should inquire about the informal channels available to get feedback on potential new products and how frequently Apricot Lane updates its approved lists.