Can Carvel specify the decor that franchisees must purchase?
Carvel Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must purchase and install, at your expense, all fixtures, furnishings, equipment (including a Computer System), décor and signs, as we direct. If we modify our menu, we may require you to purchase additional equipment to prepare and store new menu items. You may not install on or about your Shoppe any merchandise, furnishings, interior or exterior décor items, supplies, fixtures, equipment or utensils unless they have been approved by us in writing. You must purchase these items only from an Approved Supplier unless we specify otherwise.
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, Carvel can specify the decor that franchisees must purchase for their Shoppes. Franchisees are required to purchase and install all fixtures, furnishings, equipment (including a Computer System), décor, and signs as directed by Carvel. These purchases are made at the franchisee's expense.
Carvel also maintains control over the items installed in or around the Shoppe. Franchisees cannot install any merchandise, furnishings, interior or exterior décor items, supplies, fixtures, equipment, or utensils unless they have been approved by Carvel in writing. These items must be purchased from an Approved Supplier, unless Carvel specifies otherwise.
If Carvel modifies its menu, franchisees may be required to purchase additional equipment to prepare and store new menu items. This ensures that all Carvel locations maintain a consistent brand image and are equipped to offer the latest menu items. This level of control is typical in franchising, allowing Carvel to maintain uniformity and quality across all its locations.