What is the definition of a 'Refresh' for a Carvel franchise, and when is it required?
Carvel Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- A.
Refresh.
Within six months after the fifth and the fifteenth anniversaries of the Opening Date, you must, at your sole expense and in accordance with our then-current Standards and directives, refresh, refurbish, and renovate the Franchised Business to meet our then-current operational and branding Standards (a "Refresh").
Generally, a Refresh will require you to add, update, and/or replace components of the Franchised Business (including merchandising elements, graphics, paint or wall coverings, menu boards, interior and exterior signage, kitchen equipment, drive-thru equipment, Computer System components, and other furniture, fixtures, equipment, and décor that we may specify in our sole discretion) to meet our then-current Standards without significantly altering your Franchised Business' layout or structure.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 100–353)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Carvel's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a 'Refresh' involves updating the franchise to meet current operational and branding standards. This generally includes adding, updating, or replacing components of the business, such as merchandising elements, graphics, paint, wall coverings, menu boards, interior and exterior signage, kitchen equipment, drive-thru equipment, computer system components, furniture, fixtures, equipment, and décor. The key distinction is that a Refresh should not significantly alter the layout or structure of the Carvel franchised business.
A Refresh is required within six months after both the fifth and fifteenth anniversaries of the store's opening date. The franchisee is responsible for covering all expenses associated with the Refresh, ensuring that the updates align with Carvel's standards and directives at that time.
This requirement means that a Carvel franchisee must be prepared to make these investments to keep the store current and aligned with the brand's image. Unlike a more extensive 'Remodel,' a 'Refresh' focuses on updates and replacements rather than structural changes, potentially making it a less capital-intensive project. However, franchisees should still budget accordingly to meet Carvel's requirements and maintain a competitive and appealing store.