Does Cinnabon endorse or become liable for the performance of a designated Architect?
Cinnabon Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ou must engage, at your own expense, to complete your buildout, unless we, in our sole discretion, agree in writing to accept a General Contractor that you propose. Our designation, pre-approval, or acceptance of a General Contractor will not in any way be our endorsement of such General Contractor or render us liable for such General Contractor's performance. (Franchise Agreement, Section 6.1.A.
- 5. Architect. We will designate or pre-approve one or more licensed architects (an "Architect") that you must engage, at your own expense, to develop architectural plans, unless
we, in our sole discretion, agree in writing to accept an Architect that you propose. Our designation, pre-approval, or acceptance of an A
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 66–82)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Cinnabon Franchise Disclosure Document, Cinnabon designates or pre-approves licensed architects that franchisees must engage to develop architectural plans for their bakeries. While Cinnabon may designate or pre-approve an architect, the FDD explicitly states that this action does not constitute an endorsement of the architect.
Specifically, Cinnabon will not be held liable for the architect's performance, compliance with professional design standards, or adherence to local codes. The franchisee is responsible for the architect's expenses. The franchisee is also responsible for engaging licensed engineers, such as mechanical, electrical, plumbing, or structural engineers, as necessary.
Cinnabon also reviews the architectural plans to ensure compliance with their standards, but this review is not designed to assess structural integrity or compliance with applicable laws. After an initial free review and a review of one revised set of plans incorporating required changes, Cinnabon may charge a $2,500 fee for each subsequent review involving modifications to previously accepted plans. The franchisee must receive written acceptance of the architectural plans from Cinnabon before submitting them for permits and starting construction. During construction, Cinnabon may inspect the bakery or photographs to ensure compliance with the architectural plans and standards, and may charge a $2,500 on-site inspection fee for two or more on-site inspections. The franchisee cannot open the bakery until Cinnabon provides written consent.