For Cicis, are scanned or electronic signatures considered to have the same effect and validity as original signatures on the Franchise Agreement?
Cicis Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
including, without limitation, Claims based upon, arising out of, or in any way related to (i) applicable laws, rules and regulations, (ii) the Franchise Agreement and all other agreements between any Releasing Party and any Released Party, (iii) the relationships created by such agreements, or (iv) the sale, development, ownership, purchase or operation of the Restaurant or any other Cicisbranded restaurant. The Guarantors and you represent and warrant that no Claims released by the Releasing Parties in this paragraph have been assigned to any third party.
If the Restaurant you operate under the Franchise Agreement is located in Maryland or if any of the Releasing Parties is a resident of Maryland, the following shall apply:
Any general release provided for hereunder shall not apply to any liability under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law.
- Construction; Execution. This Addendum forms an integral part of and is incorporated into the Franchise Agreement and represents the sole agreement between the Parties with respect to the matters set forth herein. Except as set forth herein, the Franchise Agreement remains in full force and effect. This Addendum may be executed in counterparts which, taken together, constitute a single document. Electronic execution is authorized, and photocopies of the Addendum and signatures hereto have the same force and effect as originals.
Thus executed on the dates shown below and made effective as of the Effective Date.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 65–263)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Cicis Franchise Disclosure Document, electronic execution of the Development Incentive Program Addendum is authorized, and photocopies of the addendum and signatures have the same force and effect as originals. Similarly, for the Veteran's Incentive Program Addendum, facsimile signatures are considered effective for execution purposes. This indicates that Cicis accepts electronic or scanned signatures as legally binding.
This acceptance of electronic and facsimile signatures provides convenience and efficiency in the franchise agreement process. Franchisees can execute documents remotely, eliminating the need for physical meetings or mail, which can save time and reduce administrative costs. This is a fairly standard practice in the franchise industry today, as it streamlines the signing process.
However, it is important for prospective Cicis franchisees to ensure that they fully understand all the terms and conditions outlined in the franchise agreement and any addenda before signing, regardless of the signature format. Franchisees should also verify that the electronic signature process used by Cicis complies with all applicable laws and regulations regarding electronic signatures to ensure the validity and enforceability of the agreement.