Can a Christies International Real Estate franchisee purchase signs from a third party?
Christies_International_Real_Estate Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must purchase from approved suppliers all internal and external signage for the Main and Additional Offices, and all "for sale" signs that you and your agents will use in your Business. Additionally, you may purchase these materials from a third party provided the purchased materials comply with our standards as described in the Operations Manual. Immediately upon receipt of notice from us, you must stop using any signs from a non-approved supplier if, solely in our judgment, that sign violates our policies and procedures or could adversely impact the Marks or the System.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 20–24)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Christies International Real Estate's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must purchase all internal and external signage for their main and additional offices, as well as "for sale" signs, from approved suppliers. However, franchisees may purchase these materials from a third party, provided the purchased materials comply with the standards described in the Operations Manual.
Christies International Real Estate retains the right to demand that a franchisee immediately stop using signs from a non-approved supplier if, in their judgment, the sign violates their policies and procedures or could adversely impact the Marks or the System. This means that while franchisees have some flexibility in sourcing signs, they must ensure strict compliance with brand standards and risk having to replace non-compliant signage.
This requirement ensures brand consistency across all Christies International Real Estate locations, which is a common practice in franchising. Prospective franchisees should carefully review the Operations Manual to understand the specific standards for signage to avoid potential conflicts and additional expenses. It is also advisable to maintain open communication with Christies International Real Estate regarding any third-party suppliers to ensure compliance and avoid potential disruptions.