Can Apricot Lane limit the number of recommended suppliers with whom a franchisee may deal?

According to the 2025 Apricot Lane Franchise Disclosure Document, Apricot Lane franchisees may only use suppliers that Apricot Lane designates or approves for the initial and ongoing design, management, and maintenance services of the E-Commerce Platform. This includes the possibility that franchisees may be required to use Apricot Lane or its affiliates as suppliers.

This means that an Apricot Lane franchisee's choice of suppliers for the E-Commerce Platform is restricted to those approved by Apricot Lane. This allows Apricot Lane to maintain quality control and uniformity across the brand's online presence.

For a prospective franchisee, this limited choice of suppliers could mean less flexibility in negotiating prices or service terms. However, it also ensures that the E-Commerce Platform is managed according to Apricot Lane's standards, potentially reducing the risk of technical issues or inconsistencies. Franchisees should inquire about the number of approved suppliers, their pricing structure, and the process for requesting approval of alternative suppliers.