Is Cinnabon responsible for the Architect's performance or compliance with professional design standards if they designate or pre-approve the Architect?
Cinnabon Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must engage, at your expense, a licensed architect ("Architect") that we have designated or pre-approved, 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.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 114–399)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Cinnabon Franchise Disclosure Document, Cinnabon is not liable for the performance or professional compliance of an architect they designate or pre-approve for a franchisee. The franchisee must engage a licensed architect at their own expense, whether the architect is designated, pre-approved, or accepted by Cinnabon.
This means that even if Cinnabon suggests or approves an architect, the responsibility for ensuring the architect's work meets professional standards and local codes rests solely with the franchisee. The franchisee cannot hold Cinnabon accountable for any shortcomings in the architect's performance or compliance.
This arrangement is fairly standard in franchising, where franchisees typically bear the responsibility for selecting and managing their own contractors and professionals. While Cinnabon may provide guidance or pre-approved lists, it's ultimately up to the franchisee to ensure that the chosen architect is qualified and capable of delivering satisfactory services. A prospective Cinnabon franchisee should carefully vet any architect, even if they are on an approved list, and ensure they have adequate insurance and references.