Can the opening deadline for an Apricot Lane franchise be extended, and if so, who grants the extension?
Apricot_Lane Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
nchise Agreement will apply towards any third store location purchased.
E. FRANCHISOR's Right to Vary Standards
FRANCHISEE acknowledges that because complete and detailed uniformity under many varying conditions may not be possible or practical, FRANCHISOR specifically reserves the right and privilege, in its sole discretion and as it may deem appropriate or necessary, to vary standards for any franchisee(s) or particular circumstance. FRANCHISOR is not required to disclose or grant to FRANCHISEE a like or similar variation hereunder.
SECTION 2: TERRITORY
**A.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 51–222)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Apricot Lane FDD, the franchisor, Country Visions, Inc., reserves the right to vary standards for any franchisee or particular circumstance at its sole discretion. This implies that Apricot Lane may grant extensions to the opening deadline for a franchise, but it is not obligated to do so.
This discretion means that an extension is not guaranteed and depends on the specific situation and the franchisor's assessment. The FDD also states that any required approval or consent from Apricot Lane must be requested in writing by the franchisee and granted in writing by the franchisor to be binding.
For a prospective Apricot Lane franchisee, this highlights the importance of maintaining open communication with the franchisor and addressing any potential delays proactively. It also emphasizes the need to document all agreements and approvals in writing to avoid misunderstandings or disputes later on. Franchisees should not assume that a verbal agreement for an extension will be sufficient.