What is the latest time the initial franchise fee is due to Cicis?
Cicis Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
CICIS BUFFET RESTAURANT**
| Type of Expenditure (Note 1) | Amount | Method of Payment | When Due | To Whom Payment Is To Be Made |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee (Note 2) | $30,000 | Lump sum | On Execution | Us |
| Leasehold Improvements (Note 3) | $325,080 - $348,725 | As arranged | As invoiced | Landlord / Third-Party Suppliers |
| Equipment and Supplies | $80,000 - | As arranged | As invoiced | Third-Party |
| for Game Room (Note 4) | $250,000 | Sup |
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT YOUR ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT FOR A CICIS BUFFET RESTAURANT (FDD pages 21–25)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cicis's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the initial franchise fee is due upon execution of the franchise agreement. For a Cicis Buffet Restaurant, the initial franchise fee is $30,000. For a Cicis To Go Restaurant, the initial franchise fee is $15,000. These fees are payable in a lump sum to Cicis.
However, the timing and amount of the initial franchise fee can vary under certain incentive programs. For example, if a Franchise Agreement is signed pursuant to an Area Development Agreement, Cicis will apply the development fee, in increments of $15,000 ($10,000 if you participate in the Development Incentive Program), toward the payment of initial franchise fees. The initial franchise fee will be reduced to $5,000 under Franchise Agreements executed pursuant to the Reopen Incentive Program, $10,000 under Franchise Agreements executed pursuant to the Development Incentive Program, and $0 under Franchise Agreements executed pursuant to the Veteran's Incentive Program.
Prospective franchisees should note that all fees paid to Cicis and its affiliates are non-refundable. Therefore, it's crucial to fully understand the terms and conditions of the Franchise Agreement and any applicable incentive programs before signing and paying the initial franchise fee. Franchisees should also inquire about any other potential fees or costs associated with opening and operating a Cicis restaurant.