To whom is the payment for the Apricot Lane store designer/architect made?
Apricot_Lane Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
T-UP FRANCHISE**
| Type of expenditure | Amount (Estimated Cost) | Method of payment | When due | To whom payment is to be made |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee1 | $39,500 (first store) $20,000 (subsequent stores) | Lump Sum | See Item 5 & Note 1 | COUNTRY VISIONS |
| Real Estate/1st month rent2 | $0 - $10,000 | As Arranged | As Arranged |
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 14–17)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Apricot Lane's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the payment for the store designer or architect, which ranges from $10,000 to $12,000, is made to Approved Suppliers. This payment is due upon plan completion and is typically a lump sum payment.
Apricot Lane franchisees have the option to use store designers or architects approved by Country Visions for their store design drawings and services. However, if a franchisee chooses an architect not approved by Country Visions, they may incur a Plan Review Fee, payable to Country Visions, to cover the additional time required to familiarize the new architect with Apricot Lane's store design requirements.
It is important for prospective Apricot Lane franchisees to factor in these design and architectural costs when planning their initial investment. The use of approved suppliers ensures compliance with Apricot Lane's standards, while the option to choose an alternative architect provides flexibility, albeit with a potential review fee. Franchisees should discuss these options and associated costs with Country Visions to make an informed decision.