What expenses are Carvel franchisees responsible for covering for themselves and their personnel related to any training programs?

According to Carvel's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are responsible for covering all expenses incurred by themselves and their personnel for any training programs. These expenses include travel, food, lodging, compensation, and benefits. Carvel will not provide any compensation for services performed by the franchisee or their personnel during training programs. Franchisees must also purchase uniforms for their trainees who attend the Management Training Program.

In addition to these costs, Carvel may charge a reasonable fee for trainees to attend Additional Programs, which currently ranges from $0 to $2,500 per attendee. This fee is subject to an annual increase, not exceeding the Allowed Adjustment. Carvel may also require franchisees to purchase or license a training platform and equipment from Carvel, its affiliates, or approved suppliers, potentially incurring additional license fees that can also increase annually, subject to the Allowed Adjustment.

Furthermore, if a franchisee or their trainees fail to cancel scheduled training without at least 14 days' prior notice, or if they are not adequately prepared for the training, Carvel may charge the franchisee for the cost of the originally scheduled training. This includes training fees and any travel and living expenses incurred by Carvel's representatives. The franchisee may also be required to pay the training fee again for any rescheduled training. These stipulations highlight the importance of proper planning and preparation for all training programs to avoid incurring additional expenses.