Does the Cicis franchise agreement allow Cicis to change the System used to operate Cicis Restaurants?
Cicis Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
esentations and Acknowledgement Statement |
FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
This Franchise Agreement ("Agreement") is made as of the Effective Date identified on Attachment A hereto by and between On Smile LLC, a Delaware limited liability company whose address is 13355 Noel Road, Suite 1645, Dallas, TX 75240 ("us"), and the Person (as defined below) identified as the "Franchisee" on Attachment A ("you").
RECITALS
- A. We grant franchises for the development, ownership, and operation of restaurants (each, a "Cicis Restaurants") that are identified by and use names, trademarks, service marks, commercial symbols, and trade dress (including exterior and interior designs, décor, and color schemes) that we authorize, from time to time (collectively, the "Marks"), and that feature foods (currently pizza, pastas, salads, desserts, and other food items) and related items. Cicis Restaurants are developed and operated using specified systems, operating platforms, service methods, products and services, we and our affiliates may, at our and their option, change, delete, improve, and further develop from time to time (the "System"). There are two types of Cicis Restaurants: (i) dine-in buffet restaurants ("Cicis Buffet Restaurants"), and (ii) take-out/delivery only restaurants ("Cicis To Go Restaurants").
- B.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 64–65)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Cicis Franchise Disclosure Document, Cicis retains the right to modify the System used to operate Cicis Restaurants. The Franchise Agreement states that Cicis and its affiliates may change, delete, improve, and further develop the System from time to time. The System includes specified systems, operating platforms, service methods, products, and services.
This means that Cicis has broad discretion to evolve its business model, operational procedures, and offerings. These changes can include anything from the food served to the technology used in the restaurants. For a franchisee, this implies a need to stay adaptable and invest in updates or modifications that Cicis deems necessary.
The FDD also states that Cicis may periodically modify the manuals, including in the form of memoranda and newsletters, to reflect changes in System Standards. Franchisees are required to comply with all System Standards as they exist from time to time. This underscores the franchisee's obligation to keep up with any changes Cicis implements and to ensure their restaurant adheres to the latest standards.
While such changes aim to keep the brand competitive and relevant, they can also present financial and operational challenges for franchisees. Franchisees should be prepared for potential costs associated with adopting new equipment, procedures, or product offerings as directed by Cicis.