Who must approve the interim management of the Cicis restaurant after the death or disability of the owner?
Cicis Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
At our request, within a reasonable period of time not to exceed seven (7) days from the date of death or permanent disability, the executor, administrator, or other personal representative of the deceased or disabled person will provide for interim management of your Restaurant until such time as a transfer has been effected in accordance with the provisions of this Section 13.D.
Such interim management must be approved by us and must be conducted in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.
We may (but are not obligated to) assume such interim management of your Restaurant; provided that (i) our interim management of your Restaurant will not relieve you of your obligations under this Agreement; (ii) we will not be liable for any debts, losses, costs, or expenses incurred in the operation of your Restaurant during any such period of interim management; (iii) we will have the right to charge a reasonable fee for our management services, plus the direct out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred in the operation of the Restaurant; and (iv) you will, and hereby do, indemnify and hold us harmless against any and all judgments, fines, losses, liabilities, costs, amounts paid in settlement, and reasonable expenses (including, but not limited to attorneys' fees) incurred in connection with our interim management of your Restaurant, except by reason of our gross negligence or willful misconduct.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 64–65)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cicis's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Cicis must approve the interim management of the restaurant after the death or permanent disability of the owner or managing owner. The executor, administrator, or other personal representative of the deceased or disabled person is responsible for providing interim management of the Cicis restaurant until a transfer occurs.
This means that if a Cicis franchisee or their managing owner dies or becomes permanently disabled, their representative needs to find someone to manage the restaurant temporarily. However, this interim manager is not automatically approved; Cicis has the right to vet and approve the individual to ensure they meet the brand's standards. This requirement protects Cicis's brand and operational consistency during a challenging transition period.
Cicis also has the option to assume interim management themselves, but they are not obligated to do so. If Cicis does take over, the franchisee is still responsible for all obligations under the franchise agreement. Cicis can charge a reasonable fee for their management services, covering costs and expenses. The franchisee must also indemnify Cicis against any liabilities during this period, unless caused by Cicis's gross negligence or willful misconduct. This clause highlights the importance of having a succession plan in place and understanding the financial responsibilities during such transitions.