Is the Apricot Lane initial franchise fee refundable?
Apricot_Lane Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
greement. The franchise fee is fully earned and non-refundable upon payment, except as expressly provided below in this Item 5.
If we determine, in our sole discretion, that you or your designated manager are unable to satisfactorily complete the training program at our headquarters, we shall have the right to terminate the Franchise Agreement, and return the initial franchise fee less expenses incurred by COUNTRY VISIONS in providing training to you and other expenses incurred by COUNTRY VISIONS, not to exceed $5,000 or as stated in other provisions of the Franchise Agreement to the contrary. To obtain the refund you must execute a full release of claims against COUNTRY VISIONS and our affiliates and return to us all confidential or proprietary information you have receive
Source: Item 5 — INITIAL FEES (FDD pages 10–11)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Apricot Lane FDD, the initial franchise fee of $39,500 is generally non-refundable upon payment. However, there are specific circumstances under which a refund may be available. If a franchisee signs a Franchise Agreement before a specific location is determined, they will sign an Exhibit A, which grants an "open license." In this case, the initial franchise fee is paid in two installments: a nonrefundable deposit of $5,000 upon signing the Franchise Agreement, and the balance upon the execution of the Landlord's letter of intent for an approved site.
There is also a provision for a refund if Apricot Lane determines that the franchisee or their designated manager cannot satisfactorily complete the training program at the headquarters. In this case, Apricot Lane has the right to terminate the Franchise Agreement and return the initial franchise fee, less expenses incurred by Apricot Lane in providing training and other expenses, not to exceed $5,000.
To obtain this refund, the franchisee must execute a full release of claims against Apricot Lane and its affiliates and return all confidential or proprietary information received from them. It's important to note that outside of these specific conditions, the initial franchise fee is considered fully earned and non-refundable.