Can Chatime vary the range of Products from time to time?
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 the 2025 Chatime Franchise Disclosure Document, Chatime has the ability to specify the Chatime menu and can vary it from time to time. As a franchisee, you must offer the complete range of food and beverages on the Chatime Menu and prepare them according to the menu's specifications. You are not allowed to offer, sell, or supply any food or beverages that are not specified on the Chatime Menu.
This means Chatime retains control over the products sold at your franchise. This is a fairly standard practice in franchising, allowing the franchisor to maintain brand consistency and quality control across all locations. It ensures customers receive a consistent experience regardless of the specific franchise they visit.
As a Chatime franchisee, you are required to acquire all products, including raw materials, needed to prepare items on the Chatime Menu exclusively from approved suppliers. This requirement helps Chatime maintain product quality and consistency, but it also limits your ability to source cheaper alternatives, potentially impacting your profit margins. It is important to stay up-to-date with any menu changes or updates from Chatime to ensure compliance and maintain the brand standards.