What specific computer software versions are City Publications franchisees required to purchase and utilize?
City_Publications Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ter System/Point-of-Sale System
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
In addition, you must purchase and utilize computer hardware which will permit you to operate the required software. The computer hardware you use must be IBM or MAC compatible, but we do not currently impose any other specifications for computer hardware or software. We suggest that you have a laptop computer and your will need a color laser printer.
We require you to purchase and begin using any version upgrades to the specified software within 6 months of the upgraded version's availability. We also require you to update your computer's CPU and your printer at least every 3 years. We estimate that you will spend approximately $1,500 to purchase the computer hardware and software, and should expect to spend approximately $1,000 per year
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 19–24)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to City Publications' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must purchase and utilize the current versions of specific computer software. This includes the latest version of QuickBooks Pro, the most current Windows or MAC operating system, MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook), a Smart Phone (only to be used for City Publications Business, must have professional City Publications greetings), and Adobe Acrobat Professional.
In addition to the software, franchisees must also purchase computer hardware that is IBM or MAC compatible to operate the required software. While there are no specific hardware specifications, City Publications suggests a laptop computer and a color laser printer. Franchisees are required to adopt any version upgrades to the specified software within 6 months of the upgraded version's availability and update their computer's CPU and printer at least every 3 years.
The estimated initial investment for the computer hardware and software is approximately $1,500. Furthermore, franchisees should anticipate spending around $1,000 per year on updates, upgrades, and general upkeep of their computer systems. This ensures that franchisees remain compliant with City Publications' technology standards and can effectively operate their business.