Must a City Publications franchisee obtain a certificate of completion of training before commencing operations?
City_Publications Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
dditional training, if any, for providing the new Designated Manager an initial training program in respect of such manager. Franchisee will be responsible for all travel and living expenses.
D. Operations Assistance
Franchisor shall furnish to Franchisee at the Franchised Business, and at Franchisor's expense, for approximately two (2) days, one (1) of Franchisor's representatives for the purpose of providing general assistance and guidance in connection with opening and the day-to-day operations of the Franchised Business. Such assistance shall take place during commencement of operation of the Franchised Business or within four (4) weeks of Franchisee's beginning operations or as otherwise agreed upon between Franchisor and Franchisee. Should Franchisee request additional assistance from Franchisor in order to facilitate the opening of the Franchised Business, and should Franchisor deem it necessary and appropriate to comply with such request, Franchisor shall provide such additional assistance at Franchisor's then-current standard rates, plus expenses.
E. Ongoing Training Meetings
Franchisor may require Franchisee to attend additional refresher training and/or seminars; virtual or classroom. Attendance at such training programs or seminars shall be at Franchisee's sole expense including, without limitation, travel costs, room and board expenses and employees' salaries. Franchisor shall not require attendance at more than two (2) sessions and attendance shall not exceed two (2) days in any calendar year.
**F.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 39–129)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
Based on the 2025 City Publications Franchise Disclosure Document, it is not explicitly stated whether a franchisee must obtain a certificate of completion of training before commencing operations. However, the FDD does mention training and assistance provided by City Publications.
Specifically, City Publications will furnish a representative to the franchisee for approximately two days to provide general assistance and guidance in connection with opening and the day-to-day operations of the franchised business. This assistance will occur during the commencement of operations or within four weeks of the franchisee beginning operations, or as otherwise agreed upon. The FDD also mentions that the franchisor may require additional refresher training and/or seminars, either virtual or in a classroom setting, and may also require short on-site self-conducted training to maintain knowledge of the Operations Manual and understanding of procedures.
While the FDD outlines the training and support provided, it does not specify whether a certificate of completion is required to begin operations. A prospective franchisee should clarify with City Publications whether a certificate of completion is mandatory and what the specific requirements are for commencing business operations after training.