Does the Cicis Development Incentive Program Addendum state that photocopies of the addendum and signatures have the same force and effect as originals?
Cicis Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- Construction; Execution. This Addendum forms an integral part of and is incorporated into the Franchise Agreement and represents the sole agreement between the Parties with respect to the matters set forth herein. Except as set forth herein, the Franchise Agreement remains in full force and effect. This Addendum may be executed in counterparts which, taken together, constitute a single document. Electronic execution is authorized, and photocopies of the Addendum and signatures hereto have the same force and effect as originals.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 65–263)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Cicis Franchise Disclosure Document, the Development Incentive Program Addendum specifies that photocopies of the addendum and signatures have the same legal validity as the original documents. This applies to the addendum related to the Franchise Agreement.
Specifically, the FDD states that electronic execution is authorized, and photocopies of the addendum and signatures have the same force and effect as originals. This clause is part of a section that also confirms the addendum is an integral part of the Franchise Agreement, representing the complete agreement on the matters it covers. The Franchise Agreement remains fully effective except as modified by the addendum.
This provision simplifies the administrative processes, allowing Cicis franchisees and the franchisor to rely on copies without needing to track originals. It also facilitates quicker execution of the agreement, as electronic signatures and photocopies are acceptable. This is a fairly standard clause in modern franchise agreements, reflecting the increasing acceptance of digital documentation.