Must the general contractor hired by a Carvel franchisee be accepted by Carvel?
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, a franchisee must hire a general contractor that Carvel accepts to complete the build-out of their Shoppe. Carvel's acceptance of the general contractor does not constitute an endorsement nor does it render Carvel liable for the contractor's performance.
Prior to construction, the franchisee must also hire an architect that Carvel accepts in writing to prepare the Shoppe's plans and make necessary changes to Carvel's standard layout and specifications. Carvel may also require a franchisee to obtain a site selection analysis from an Approved Supplier, which may include an analysis of factors such as traffic patterns, demographics, and competitors within the market.
These requirements ensure that the Shoppe's design and construction align with Carvel's brand standards and operational requirements. While franchisees are responsible for selecting their own contractors and architects, Carvel retains the right to approve these selections to maintain consistency across all franchise locations. This is a common practice in franchising, where franchisors seek to protect their brand image and ensure quality control.