How does the Cicis Franchise Agreement define an 'immediate family member'?

According to Cicis's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Franchise Agreement defines an "immediate family member" as the spouse, natural and adoptive parents, natural and adopted siblings, and natural and adopted children of a person, including their spouses. This definition is important because the actions of immediate family members can sometimes be attributed to the franchisee, especially in matters of non-competition.

Specifically, the definition of "immediate family member" comes into play regarding non-compete clauses within the Cicis Franchise Agreement. These clauses restrict franchisees and their immediate family from engaging in competing businesses during the term of the agreement and for a period afterward. This restriction applies to the franchisee, their owners, and operators, ensuring that they do not use the knowledge and training gained from Cicis to benefit a competing business.

Therefore, prospective Cicis franchisees should understand that the restrictions on operating a competing business extend not only to themselves but also to their immediate family members as defined in the agreement. This could impact the future business opportunities of the franchisee's spouse, parents, siblings, and children, so it's crucial to consider these implications before entering into the Franchise Agreement.