Who within a Christies International Real Estate franchise must sign a confidentiality agreement?
Christies_International_Real_Estate Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In some cases, Affiliates have signed a confidentiality clause in settlement, PBA, or other contract, within the last three years that would restrict their ability to speak openly about their experience with CHRISTIE'S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE. In some instances, current and former Affiliates sign provisions restricting their ability to speak openly about their experience with CHRISTIE'S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE. You may wish to speak with current and former Affiliates, but be aware that not all such Affiliates will be able to communicate with you.
Source: Item 15 — OBLIGATION TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ACTUAL OPERATION OF THE FRANCHISE BUSINESS (FDD pages 41–43)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Christies International Real Estate FDD, in some instances, current and former Affiliates sign provisions restricting their ability to speak openly about their experience with Christies International Real Estate. This suggests that confidentiality agreements are used within the Christies International Real Estate franchise system, but the FDD does not specify exactly which individuals (e.g., franchisees, employees) are required to sign them.
This practice of using confidentiality agreements is not uncommon in franchising. Franchisors often want to protect their trade secrets, operational methods, and brand reputation. These agreements can limit what franchisees and affiliates can disclose about their experiences, especially if those experiences are negative.
A prospective Christies International Real Estate franchisee should inquire about the specific terms of any required confidentiality agreements. Understanding who is bound by these agreements and what information is covered is crucial. It would be prudent to ask the franchisor directly about the scope and implications of these agreements during the due diligence process, as well as to seek legal counsel to review the franchise agreement and related documents.