Can Cicis use and license others to use the Cicis System anywhere in the world?
Cicis Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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- use and license others to use the System and any elements of the System in any business located or operated anywhere in the world;
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- own and operate, and license others to own and operate, or otherwise become associated with, any business, anywhere in the world, that uses or is identified by any names, symbols or trademarks, except, as described above, in a restaurant that is located in the Development Area and is identified by the Marks;
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- acquire, be acquired by, merge, affiliate with or engage in any transaction with other businesses (whether competitive or not) located anywhere and, even if such businesses are located in the Development Area, (i) convert the other businesses to the Cicis brand, (ii) allow such other businesses to operate as part of the System, whether or not converted to the Cicis, and/or (iii) permit the other businesses to continue to operate under another name;
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- solicit customers, advertise, and authorize others to advertise, and promote sales of and from Cicis Restaurants, and fill customer orders by providing catering and delivery services anywhere, including within the Development Area; and
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- market and sell, and grant to others the right to market and sell, within and outside of the Development Area, products and services authorized for sale at Cicis Restaurants through alternative channels of distribution such as Internet, catalog sales, telemarketing, or other direct marketing sales (like grocery stores, kiosks, mail order, Internet merchandise sales and catalogue sales, or through Cicis To Go) using the Marks or other trademarks and commercial symbols.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 65–263)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Cicis Franchise Disclosure Document, Cicis retains the right to use and license its system and its components anywhere globally. This means Cicis is not restricted geographically in expanding its brand, system, or any elements of its system. They can operate, license, or associate with any business worldwide, regardless of whether those businesses use Cicis' names, symbols, or trademarks.
This broad reservation of rights allows Cicis to pursue growth opportunities wherever they see fit, without being limited by existing franchisee territories, except for specific protections granted within a franchisee's Development Area. Cicis can also engage in business transactions with other companies, even competitors, regardless of location, and potentially convert those businesses to the Cicis brand or allow them to operate under another name.
For a potential franchisee, this highlights that Cicis maintains significant control over its brand's expansion and has the flexibility to adapt its business model and partnerships on a global scale. While franchisees are granted certain territorial protections within their Development Areas, Cicis reserves the right to market, sell, and authorize others to market and sell Cicis products and services through alternative channels of distribution, such as internet sales or grocery stores, both within and outside the Development Area.
This clause emphasizes the importance of understanding the scope of the Development Area and the potential for Cicis to expand its presence through various channels, which could impact a franchisee's business. A prospective franchisee should carefully consider these factors and discuss with Cicis the specific plans for development in their target market to fully understand the potential competitive landscape.