Does the Cicis franchise agreement include an internal dispute resolution program?
Cicis Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Internal Dispute Resolution Program.
Without limiting any of the foregoing, we reserve the right, at any time, to create a dispute resolution program and related specifications, standards, procedures, and rules for the implementation thereof to be administered by use or our designees for the benefit of all franchisees and/or developers conducting business under the System.
The standards, specifications, procedures, and rules for such dispute resolution program will be made part of the Manuals, and if made part of the Manuals, on either a voluntary or mandatory basis, you will comply with all such standards, specifications, procedures, and rules in seeking resolution of any claims, controversies, or disputes with or involving us or other franchisees or developers, if applicable under the program.
You agree to comply with and participate in such program if implemented.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 64–65)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cicis's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Cicis reserves the right to create an internal dispute resolution program. This program would include specifications, standards, procedures, and rules for implementation, administered by Cicis or its designees. The program is intended to benefit all franchisees and/or developers conducting business under the Cicis system.
If Cicis implements such a program, the standards, specifications, procedures, and rules will be included in the Manuals. Franchisees would be required to comply with these standards, specifications, procedures, and rules, whether the program is voluntary or mandatory, when seeking resolution of claims, controversies, or disputes with Cicis, other franchisees, or developers, if applicable under the program.
It is important to note that Cicis "reserves the right" to implement such a program, but is not obligated to do so. Prospective franchisees should inquire whether such a program is currently in place or planned for the future, as participation would be mandatory if implemented.