Can Cicis require franchisees to modify or discontinue the use of any materials in which they claim a patent or copyright?

According to Cicis's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Cicis retains the right to direct franchisees to modify or cease using any materials for which Cicis claims a patent or copyright. This can be done without any obligation on Cicis's part to compensate the franchisee for the changes. Cicis is also not obligated to protect any rights the franchisee might have to use the copyrights.

This provision grants Cicis significant control over the brand's intellectual property and its consistent application across all franchise locations. It allows Cicis to respond swiftly to potential legal challenges or market changes by mandating adjustments to materials used by franchisees.

For a prospective franchisee, this means that they must be prepared to adapt their marketing and operational materials as directed by Cicis. This could involve reprinting menus, changing signage, or altering advertising campaigns, potentially incurring additional costs. Franchisees should factor in the possibility of these changes when assessing the overall investment and operational requirements of a Cicis franchise.

It is also important to note that Cicis is not obligated to protect any rights the franchisee has to use the copyrights. This means that if a franchisee develops their own marketing materials using Cicis's copyrights, Cicis is not obligated to defend the franchisee's right to use those materials if they are challenged by a third party.