Does City Publications require franchisees to use a smart phone exclusively for City Publications business?
City_Publications Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
As referenced in ITEM 7 above, we require you to purchase and utilize the current versions of the following computer software:
- Latest version of QuickBooks Pro
- Most current Windows or MAC operating system
- MS Office Excel, Word, Outlook
- Smart Phone (only to be used for City Publications Business, must have professional City Publications greetings)
- Adobe Acrobat Professional
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 19–24)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 City Publications Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to have a smart phone that is used exclusively for City Publications business. The FDD specifies that the smart phone "must have professional City Publications greetings." This requirement ensures that franchisees have the necessary technology to conduct business and maintain a professional image when communicating on behalf of City Publications.
This requirement has a few implications for prospective franchisees. First, franchisees will need to factor in the cost of a smart phone if they do not already have one that they can dedicate solely to the City Publications business. Second, franchisees must ensure that the phone is used only for City Publications related activities to maintain the required professional standards.
While the FDD specifies the need for a smart phone dedicated to City Publications, it does not detail specific makes and models that are acceptable. It also does not specify who is responsible for the cost of the professional City Publications greetings. A prospective franchisee should clarify these details with City Publications before signing the franchise agreement.