Is there an initial training fee for the first and second Cicis Restaurants a franchisee develops?

According to Cicis's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Cicis does not charge an initial training fee for the first and second restaurants a franchisee develops. However, if a franchisee seeks to develop a third or subsequent Cicis restaurant, Cicis will assess their operating history and ability to train employees. If Cicis determines that the franchisee or their personnel must attend a training program for the third or any subsequent restaurant, the franchisee will be required to pay an initial training fee of $2,500. This fee is due in a lump sum upon the execution of the Franchise Agreement.

This policy is beneficial for new Cicis franchisees as it reduces the initial investment required to open their first two locations. Waiving the training fee for the first two restaurants allows franchisees to allocate those funds to other startup costs, such as equipment, inventory, or location build-out.

However, the policy also introduces a degree of uncertainty for franchisees planning to expand beyond two locations. The decision to require training, and thus the $2,500 fee, is based on Cicis's assessment of the franchisee's operating history and training capabilities. Franchisees should maintain strong operational performance and demonstrate effective employee training practices to minimize the likelihood of being required to pay the training fee for subsequent locations. Franchisees should inquire with Cicis about the specific criteria used to evaluate the need for additional training to better understand how to avoid this fee.