Can a Cinnabon franchisee propose their own Architect?
Cinnabon Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 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 Architect will not in any way be our endorsement of such Architect or render us liable for such Architect's performance or such Architect's compliance with professional design standards or adherence to local codes. You also must engage, at your expense, licensed engineers (e.g., mechanical, electrical, plumbing, or structural engineers), as necessary or appropriate. (Franchise Agreement, Section 6.2.A.(i))
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 66–82)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cinnabon's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are generally required to use an architect designated or pre-approved by Cinnabon. However, Cinnabon may, at its sole discretion, agree in writing to accept an architect proposed by the franchisee. The franchisor's designation, pre-approval, or acceptance of an architect does not constitute an endorsement or render Cinnabon liable for the architect's performance, their compliance with professional design standards, or their adherence to local codes.
In addition to an architect, Cinnabon franchisees must also engage licensed engineers (e.g., mechanical, electrical, plumbing, or structural engineers) at their own expense, as necessary or appropriate for the build-out of their Cinnabon bakery. The franchisee is responsible for the costs associated with both the architect and the engineers.
It is important to note that even if a franchisee's architect is approved, Cinnabon retains the right to review the architectural plans to ensure compliance with their standards. While Cinnabon will review the initial plans and one revision at no cost, subsequent reviews of modified plans will incur a fee of $2,500 per review. The franchisee must receive written acceptance of the architectural plans from Cinnabon before submitting them for permits and commencing construction.