Can Cicis modify the Manuals in the form of newsletters?
Cicis Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We may periodically modify the Manuals, including in the form of memoranda and newsletters, to reflect changes in System Standards.
Our master copy of the Manuals is the controlling copy.
The Manuals and any passwords and access credentials are part of our Confidential Information (defined below) and must be protected against improper use and disclosure.
You may disclose the Manuals to your employees who need to know its contents provided they are themselves bound by written obligations of confidentiality.
You may not at any time copy, duplicate, record, or otherwise reproduce, distribute or publish any part of the Manuals or use its contents in any other business.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 64–65)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cicis's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Cicis has the authority to modify the Manuals, which contain the System Standards, through various means, including memoranda and newsletters. This allows Cicis to adapt the System Standards to reflect changes, and franchisees are obligated to comply with these updated standards.
As a Cicis franchisee, you must adhere to the System Standards as they are updated. These standards govern many aspects of the restaurant's operation, including marketing, staffing, use of trademarks, hours, payment methods, online presence, menus, and accounting practices. The modifications to System Standards may also require additional capital investment or higher operating costs to implement the changes.
The master copy of the Manuals is the controlling reference, and the Manuals are considered confidential information. Franchisees can share the Manuals with employees who need to know the contents, provided those employees are bound by confidentiality obligations. Franchisees cannot copy, duplicate, or distribute the Manuals or use their contents in any other business.
Cicis's right to modify the Manuals and System Standards is typical in franchising, allowing the franchisor to maintain consistency and adapt to market changes. However, it also places a responsibility on the franchisee to stay informed of these changes and invest in updates as required.