What is the definition of 'Office' in the context of the City Wide franchise agreement?
City_Wide Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
's expense, furnish CITY WIDE, for its approval, the following:
- 7.2.1 Copies of all permits and certifications as may be required for the lawful operation of the Franchised Business, together with copies of any building inspection reports and certifications from all governmental authorities having jurisdiction over the Designated Territory and the Franchised Business showing that all necessary permits have been obtained and that all requirements for operation have been met.
- 7.3 Condition and Appearance of Office; Right of Inspection. Franchisee will maintain the condition and appearance of the Office of the Franchised Business consistent with CITY WIDE standards, as set forth in the Operating Manual and otherwise in writing. Franchisee will maintain such premises as CITY WIDE may from time to time require to maintain or improve the appearance and efficient operation of the Franchised Business, including, but not limited to, replacement of worn out or obsolete fixtures and signs, and repair of the Location. If any time in CITY WIDE's judgment the general state of repair or the appearance of the premises of the Franchised Business or its equipment, fixtures, or signs does not meet CITY WIDE's standards, CITY WIDE will so notify Franchisee and specify the action Franchisee must take to correct such deficiency. If Franchisee fails or refuses to initiate within thirty (30) calendar days after receipt of such notice, and continues to fail to implement a bona fide program to complete any required maintenance, CITY WIDE will have the right, in addition to all other remedies, to enter upon the premises of the Franchised Business and effect such repairs, painting, maintenance or replacements of equipment, fixtures or signs on Franchisee's behalf and Franchisee will repay CITY WIDE the entire costs on demand. If Franchisee fails to make any such payments or remedy operational deficiencies, such failure will constitute a material breach of this Agreement and CITY WIDE may terminate this Agreement. Except for
those repairs that would constitute a public health or safety hazard, or are required by any governmental agency, any such remodeling requirement will be imposed only in a nondiscriminatory manner upon (i) all comparably situated CITY WIDE franchisees and (ii) all comparably situated CITY WIDE-owned businesses; provided further that any capital expenditure otherwise required under this Agreement in excess of Twenty Five Thousand Dollars ($25,000) will only be required to be made by Franchisee if sufficient time remains in the Initial or any Successor Terms to fully amortize or depreciate such expenditure under the Internal Revenue Code ("Code"), as amended, and all applicable regulations under the Code.
- 7.4 Cleanliness and Safety. Franchisee must maintain and operate the Franchised Business in a good, clean, and safe manner in compliance with standards prescribed by CITY WIDE.
- 7.5 No Duplication or Disclosure.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 65)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to City Wide's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the term "Office" refers to the physical location from which the franchisee operates the City Wide business. While a specific definition of "Office" is not provided, the FDD outlines several requirements related to its condition, appearance, and location.
The franchisee is responsible for maintaining the office in accordance with City Wide standards, as detailed in the Operating Manual. This includes ensuring the office's appearance and condition meet City Wide's expectations. City Wide retains the right to inspect the office and require the franchisee to make necessary repairs or improvements. Failure to maintain the office to City Wide's standards can result in City Wide performing the repairs at the franchisee's expense, and repeated failure can lead to termination of the franchise agreement.
The franchisee must notify City Wide of the office's location and obtain approval before changing it. This ensures that City Wide is aware of where the franchisee is operating and can maintain brand consistency. The FDD emphasizes the importance of the office in maintaining the public image and reputation of the City Wide system. The office serves as a base for the franchisee's operations, including customer service, administration, and potentially meetings with clients or independent contractors.