Are the Refresh and Remodel requirements for a Carvel franchise exclusive, or are there other obligations to update the Franchised Business?
Carvel Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You agree to incur, without limitation, any capital expenditures required in order to comply with this obligation and our requirements (even if those expenditures cannot be amortized over the remaining Term).
- D.
Requirements Are Not Exclusive.
The requirements set forth in this Section are in addition to, and do not limit, your obligation to add, update, and/or replace components of the Franchised Business from time to time as specified in other Sections of this Agreement, including Section 8.3 (Changes to the Standards and the Manuals) and Section 12.5 (Continuing Maintenance).
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 100–353)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Carvel's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Refresh and Remodel requirements are not exclusive. Carvel franchisees have additional obligations to maintain and update their franchised businesses as specified in other sections of the franchise agreement.
Specifically, franchisees must continuously maintain the interior and exterior of the Franchised Business, including the parking lot, walkways, landscaping, furniture, fixtures, equipment, décor, and signage, ensuring they are clean, up-to-date, well-maintained, and in good repair. Franchisees are expected to take continuing maintenance actions, such as thorough cleaning, repainting, minor alterations to the décor, and repair or replacement of damaged or obsolete items, at intervals designated by Carvel.
Furthermore, Carvel retains the right to modify its standards and manuals, which may necessitate additional updates or changes to the Franchised Business. These ongoing maintenance and update obligations are separate from and in addition to the Refresh and Remodel requirements, meaning franchisees must budget for continuous upkeep in addition to the periodic Refresh and Remodel expenses. This ensures that all Carvel locations maintain a consistent brand image and meet evolving customer expectations.