Who must Carvel franchisees hire to prepare plans for their Shoppe's design and construction?
Carvel Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
As you design and construct your Shoppe, you must hire an architect that we accept in writing to prepare your plans and make any necessary changes to our standard layout and specifications. In addition, you must hire a licensed and insured general contractor that we accept to complete the build-out of your Shoppe. Our acceptance of your architect or general contractor will not in any way be our endorsement of your architect or general contractor or render us liable for your architect's or general contractor's performance. When you refresh or remodel your Shoppe, we may require you to obtain, at your expense, a site survey and design solution from us, our affiliates, or a designated vendor.
Source: Item 8 — Restrictions on Sources of Products and Services (FDD pages 52–56)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Carvel's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must hire an architect that Carvel accepts in writing to prepare the Shoppe's design plans and make necessary changes to Carvel's standard layout and specifications. Additionally, franchisees must hire a licensed and insured general contractor that Carvel accepts to complete the build-out of their Shoppe. However, Carvel's acceptance of the architect or general contractor does not constitute an endorsement or render Carvel liable for their performance.
This means that while franchisees have some choice in selecting an architect and general contractor, Carvel retains the right to approve or reject these choices. This ensures that the design and construction align with Carvel's brand standards and operational requirements. However, it's important to note that Carvel's approval doesn't guarantee the quality of work or protect the franchisee from potential issues with the architect or contractor.
Prospective franchisees should carefully vet potential architects and general contractors, checking their qualifications, insurance coverage, and references. It would be prudent to confirm that the candidates are acceptable to Carvel before committing to any agreements. This process helps to mitigate risks associated with construction and ensures compliance with Carvel's requirements.
During any Shoppe refresh or remodel, Carvel may require franchisees to obtain a site survey and design solution from Carvel, its affiliates, or a designated vendor, at the franchisee's expense. This requirement ensures uniformity and consistency across all Carvel locations, maintaining brand standards and customer experience.