Does Carbones Pizzeria charge a fee for investigating or approving a new supplier?

According to Carbones Pizzeria's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Carbones Pizzeria does not charge a fee for investigating or approving a new supplier. However, if a franchisee wants Carbones Pizzeria to consider approving a new supplier or an alternative item that is not already approved, the franchisee must provide all requested information about the supplier or item. Carbones Pizzeria then has 30 days to consider the supplier from the date the information is provided.

This is a benefit for franchisees as it reduces potential costs associated with sourcing new suppliers. However, Carbones Pizzeria does not make its criteria for approving suppliers or items available, and will not consider approving a supplier or item for which there is only a single supplier or item. This means that while franchisees can suggest new suppliers, the approval process is at the discretion of Carbones Pizzeria, and they may not be transparent about the specific requirements for approval.

Carbones Pizzeria maintains strict control over its supply chain to ensure consistency in product quality and taste. Franchisees are required to purchase various items, including all food ingredients used in pizza production, from approved suppliers. This requirement is in place because the recipes for these products are unique and original, and Carbones Pizzeria believes that maintaining consistent taste, texture, and quality is in the best interest of all franchisees and the brand itself. The grant or revocation of supplier approval will be communicated directly to the franchisee, with revocation typically occurring if a supplier fails to meet Carbones Pizzeria's standards.