What is the minimum timeframe Cinnabon requires to evaluate a proposed Control Transfer after receiving all requested information?
Cinnabon Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
No Control Transfer may be completed until at least 60 days after we receive all requested information to evaluate the proposed Control Transfer.
- 16.3 Control Transfer.
For a proposed Control Transfer, in addition to any other conditions that we may specify and without limiting in any way our sole and absolute discretion to grant or withhold consent for a proposed Control Transfer, at a minimum, the following conditions must be satisfied (unless waived by us):
- A.
You notify us in writing at least 90 days prior to any proposed Control Transfer and provide all requested information at least 60 days prior to any proposed Control Transfer.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 114–399)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cinnabon's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee seeking a Control Transfer must provide written notice to Cinnabon at least 90 days prior to the proposed transfer and must provide all requested information at least 60 days prior to the proposed Control Transfer. Cinnabon requires a minimum of 60 days after receiving all requested information to evaluate the proposed Control Transfer.
This means that a Cinnabon franchisee considering selling a controlling interest in their business needs to start the approval process well in advance. The franchisee must first notify Cinnabon in writing of the potential transfer at least 90 days before the intended transfer date. Then, the franchisee must promptly supply all documentation and data Cinnabon requests to evaluate the prospective buyer.
Cinnabon needs at least 60 days to review the information and make a decision. This timeframe allows Cinnabon to properly vet the potential new owner and ensure they meet the brand's standards. The FDD also states that Cinnabon has sole and absolute discretion to withhold consent for a Control Transfer, so even if the minimum timeframes are met, approval is not guaranteed. Prospective franchisees should be aware of these requirements and timelines when planning for a potential sale of their Cinnabon franchise.