Can the 'Chatime Menu' be modified by the franchisee?
Chatime Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- (1) Franchisee acknowledges that the Chatime Menu forms a key part of the Chatime brand and image. Accordingly, Franchisee must ensure that it strictly complies with the requirements of Franchisor relating to:
- (a) The Chatime Menu; and
- (b) The areas and manner of preparation of food items for sale from the Outlet,
as set out in the Operations Manual or as otherwise specified from time to time by Franchisor.
- (2) Franchisee must ensure that it:
- (a) Offers for sale from the Outlet the complete range of food and beverages on the Chatime Menu and that such food and beverage items are prepared in accordance with the Chatime Menu;
- (b) Does not offer, sell, or supply any food or beverages that are not specified on the Chatime Menu; and
- (c) Acquires all products (including Raw Materials) required to prepare Products on the Chatime Menu only from Approved Suppliers.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 58–262)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Chatime's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees have very limited ability to modify the Chatime menu. The FDD states that the Chatime Menu is a key part of the Chatime brand and image. Franchisees must strictly comply with Chatime's requirements relating to the menu and the preparation of food items, as outlined in the Operations Manual or as otherwise specified by Chatime.
Specifically, franchisees are required to offer the complete range of food and beverages listed on the Chatime Menu and prepare them according to the menu's specifications. Franchisees are explicitly prohibited from offering, selling, or supplying any food or beverages that are not on the Chatime Menu. Furthermore, all products, including raw materials, needed to prepare items on the Chatime Menu must be acquired only from approved suppliers.
This means a Chatime franchisee cannot introduce new menu items, alter existing recipes, or source ingredients from unapproved vendors. This level of control ensures brand consistency across all Chatime locations, but it also limits the franchisee's flexibility to cater to local tastes or experiment with new offerings. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider whether they are comfortable adhering to such strict menu guidelines.