What does Carvel specify about the purchase of fixtures for the Shoppe?

According to Carvel's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must purchase and install all fixtures, furnishings, equipment, décor, and signs as directed by Carvel, and at the franchisee's expense. Carvel may also require franchisees to purchase additional equipment if the menu is modified. Franchisees are prohibited from installing any merchandise, furnishings, interior or exterior décor items, supplies, fixtures, equipment, or utensils that have not been approved in writing by Carvel. Unless otherwise specified by Carvel, these items must be purchased exclusively from Carvel's Approved Suppliers.

Carvel retains the right to mandate that certain goods purchased or leased by franchisees for resale or use in their Shoppes meet specific criteria. These criteria include meeting Carvel's established specifications, being of a specific brand, kind, or model, being purchased or leased only from Approved Suppliers, being purchased or leased only from a single designated source, or being purchased as part of a purchasing program negotiated or specified by Carvel. Carvel can modify the list of Approved Suppliers at any time.

These stipulations ensure that Carvel maintains uniformity and quality control across all franchise locations. For a prospective franchisee, this means limited autonomy in selecting fixtures and furnishings, as most purchases must be made from Carvel-approved sources. While this may restrict a franchisee's ability to find potentially cheaper alternatives, it also ensures that the Shoppe meets Carvel's brand standards and operational requirements. Franchisees should carefully review the list of Approved Suppliers and understand the potential costs associated with these required purchases.