What must a Carvel franchisee ensure regarding Site Agreements and the Manuals?

According to Carvel's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must ensure that all Site Agreements comply with the terms outlined in the Carvel Manuals. This means that when negotiating and finalizing a lease, sublease, or purchase agreement for their location, franchisees must verify that the terms of the agreement align with Carvel's operational standards and requirements as detailed in the Manuals.

Before signing any Site Agreement, a Carvel franchisee must make sure it meets all requirements. Carvel retains the right, but not the obligation, to review the Site Agreement before it is executed to ensure compliance. This review helps to verify that the agreement does not create obligations for Carvel, grant rights adverse to Carvel's rights, or include terms inconsistent with the Franchise Agreement.

Compliance with the Manuals is critical for maintaining uniformity and brand standards across all Carvel locations. The Manuals cover various aspects of the business, and franchisees must operate in strict compliance with them. Carvel may update the Manuals from time to time, and franchisees are responsible for staying current with any changes. This includes adhering to modifications in approved products, accounting and technology systems, forms, policies, and procedures. If there are conflicts between the Manuals and the Franchise Agreement, the Franchise Agreement will take precedence.