If I purchase a City Publications franchise, is there a guarantee of confidentiality regarding my contact information if I later exit the franchise?
City_Publications Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Exhibit F also lists the name, city and state, and the current business telephone number (or, if unknown, the last known home telephone number) of every franchisee who had an outlet terminated, canceled, not renewed or otherwise voluntarily or involuntarily ceased to do business under the franchise agreement during our most recently completed fiscal year or who has not communicated with us within 10 weeks of the issuance date of this Disclosure Document. If you buy this franchise, your contact information may be disclosed to other buyers when you leave the franchise system.
During the last three fiscal years, we have not signed any confidentiality clauses with any current or former franchisees which would in any way restrict their ability to speak with you openly about their experience with City Publications.
Source: Item 20 — OUTLETS AND FRANCHISEE INFORMATION Systemwide Outlet Summary For years 2022 to 2024 (FDD pages 32–38)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to City Publications's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if you buy a City Publications franchise, your contact information may be disclosed to other buyers when you leave the franchise system. Exhibit F lists the name, city and state, and the current business telephone number (or, if unknown, the last known home telephone number) of every franchisee who had an outlet terminated, canceled, not renewed or otherwise voluntarily or involuntarily ceased to do business under the franchise agreement during City Publications's most recently completed fiscal year or who has not communicated with them within 10 weeks of the issuance date of this Disclosure Document.
This means that City Publications does not guarantee confidentiality regarding your contact information if you later exit the franchise. Your information, including your name, city, state, and phone number, could be shared with potential buyers interested in purchasing your franchise or other franchises within the City Publications system. This is a common practice in franchising, as it allows potential buyers to conduct due diligence and gather information from former franchisees about their experiences.
It is important to note that City Publications has not signed any confidentiality clauses with current or former franchisees that would restrict their ability to speak openly about their experiences with the company. This transparency can be beneficial for prospective franchisees, as it allows them to gain a comprehensive understanding of the franchise system from various perspectives. However, it also means that your experiences as a franchisee, both positive and negative, could be shared with others.
Prospective franchisees should consider the implications of this policy and be prepared for the possibility that their contact information and experiences may be shared with potential buyers or other franchisees. It is advisable to discuss any concerns about confidentiality with City Publications before signing the franchise agreement.