Is a City Publications franchisee required to keep their smart phone on at all times?
City_Publications Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
All computer hardware and software, equipment, forms, marketing materials, stationery, supplies and other materials used in the Franchised Business shall comply with Franchisor's specifications and, if required by Franchisor, shall be purchased only from Approved Suppliers that Franchisor designates or approves. Franchisee will purchase a smart phone for use with the franchised business and will have that phone on at all times. Franchisor and its Affiliates have developed and continue to develop, certain items and services, such as the Mailing List, techniques and processes to update the data used to compile the Mailing List, Graphics Services, Appointment Services, Printing Brokerage Services and Card Packs, all of which are especially suited for use in connection with the Franchised Business ("Proprietary Products & Services"). In order to maintain consistency, quality and uniformity of the System, Franchisor shall make the Proprietary Products & Services available to Franchisee in reasonable quantities in accordance with the procedures for ordering, handling and shipping that Franchisor may establish from time to time and at prices and on credit terms, if any, that Franchisor may determine from time to time, provided that Franchisee is in compliance with this Agreement and all other agreements with Franchisor and any Affiliate. Prices and terms for th
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 39–129)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to City Publications' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to purchase a smartphone for use with the franchised business and must keep it on at all times. This requirement ensures that the franchisee can be readily contacted and accessible for business-related communications.
This policy likely aims to facilitate efficient communication between the franchisee, customers, and City Publications itself. It ensures that franchisees can promptly respond to inquiries, manage advertising campaigns, and coordinate with the franchisor on various business matters. The smartphone is intended to be a key tool for managing and operating the City Publications franchise effectively.
While the FDD specifies the need to have the phone on at all times, it does not detail specific consequences for non-compliance. A prospective franchisee should clarify with City Publications what actions or penalties might result from failing to adhere to this requirement. Understanding the practical implications of this policy is crucial for managing the day-to-day operations of the franchise and maintaining good standing with the franchisor.