Does Carbones Pizzeria have the right to disapprove a franchisee's design package?
Carbones_Pizzeria Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
d. Prior to opening Franchisor will provide Franchisee with its:
(1) Prototypical design package and approve or disapprove Franchisee's design package if different than the one provided; and
(2) The Manual.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 30–116)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Carbones Pizzeria's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, prior to opening a restaurant, Carbones Pizzeria will provide a prototypical design package to the franchisee. If the franchisee's design package differs from the one provided by Carbones Pizzeria, the franchisor has the right to either approve or disapprove it.
This means that while franchisees may have some flexibility in designing their restaurant, Carbones Pizzeria retains ultimate control over the design and appearance of the franchise location. This is a fairly standard practice in franchising, as franchisors want to ensure brand consistency across all locations.
For a prospective franchisee, this implies that they should be prepared to adhere to Carbones Pizzeria's design standards and be willing to make changes to their own design package if it does not meet the franchisor's approval. It would be prudent to discuss the design approval process and any potential costs associated with modifying a design package with Carbones Pizzeria before signing the franchise agreement.