In the event of termination of my Cicis franchise agreement, does Cicis have the option to acquire telephone numbers and other business listings, and on what page can I find details about this?
Cicis Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- F.
Business Listings.
You must, at your expense, place in your Restaurant's local market area all business listings in such directories (including internet listings) and categories as we require from time to time.
Any amount you pay for such business listings will be in addition to your other marketing requirements under this Agreement.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 64–65)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Cicis Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to secure business listings in their local market area, including internet listings, as specified by Cicis. This obligation is at the franchisee's expense and is in addition to other marketing requirements outlined in the Franchise Agreement. The FDD does not explicitly state that Cicis has the option to acquire telephone numbers and business listings upon termination of the franchise agreement. However, it's implied that Cicis maintains control over brand representation and marketing standards.
While the FDD mandates franchisees to establish and maintain these listings, it does not detail what happens to these listings upon termination. Typically, franchise agreements address the handling of business assets and proprietary information upon termination, which could include the transfer or reassignment of phone numbers and business listings to ensure a smooth transition and prevent confusion in the market.
Therefore, a prospective Cicis franchisee should seek clarification from Cicis regarding the ownership and control of business listings, including telephone numbers, upon termination or expiration of the franchise agreement. Understanding Cicis's policy on this matter is crucial for franchisees to anticipate potential implications for their business and marketing efforts, especially when exiting the franchise system.