What is the Opening Deadline for a Carvel franchise, after the Franchise Agreement is signed?
Carvel Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must open the Shoppe within 360 days after we sign the Franchise Agreement (the "Opening Deadline").
We may, in our sole discretion and upon your request, grant you an extension to any of these deadlines for a fee.
We may terminate your Franchise Agreement (without refunding the Initial Franchise Fee) if you fail to meet the Site Approval Deadline or the Construction Start Deadline and fail to cure such failure within 30 days or if you do not meet the Opening Deadline. (Franchise Agreement, Section 6.5)
Factors affecting time include attendance at, and satisfactory completion of, the Management Training Program; obtaining the site; obtaining all necessary permits; completion of construction; and delivery and installation of equipment and supplies.
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 59–74)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Carvel's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee must open their Shoppe within 360 days after the Franchise Agreement is signed. This deadline is referred to as the "Opening Deadline." Failure to meet this deadline could result in the termination of the Franchise Agreement, without a refund of the initial franchise fee.
Carvel may, at its discretion, grant an extension to this deadline if requested by the franchisee, potentially for a fee. This flexibility could be beneficial if unforeseen circumstances arise during the setup process, such as construction delays or permitting issues. However, the extension is not guaranteed and is subject to Carvel's approval.
Prospective franchisees should be aware of the factors that can affect the timeline for opening a Carvel Shoppe. These factors include completing the Management Training Program, securing a suitable site, obtaining necessary permits, finishing construction, and ensuring the delivery and installation of equipment and supplies. Careful planning and proactive management of these factors are crucial to meeting the Opening Deadline and avoiding potential penalties.