Is a City Wide franchisee required to use specific software in their franchised business?
City_Wide Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee will use exclusively and pay all sub-licensing fees to CITY WIDE for the software ("Software") in Franchisee's Franchised Business during the term of this Agreement, as set forth in the Operating Manual or otherwise in writing.
- 11.11 Internet Access and E-Mail Address.
Franchisee will need to subscribe to a high speed Internet Access provider in accordance with CITY WIDE's standards and specifications.
Franchisee must also use an e-mail address (to be provided for Franchisee by CITY WIDE) for Franchisee's Franchised Business.
Any emails and data associated with any CITY WIDE email address are considered Business Records.
- 11.12 Cost of Upgrades.
Franchisee will be responsible for the costs of all enterprise upgrades and replacements of all equipment required to operate the Software.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 65)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to City Wide's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to use specific software designated by City Wide. Specifically, franchisees must exclusively use and pay all sub-licensing fees for the software that City Wide designates for their franchised business throughout the term of the Franchise Agreement. This software is outlined in the Operating Manual or in writing.
City Wide provides the Technology System, including software, to franchisees after the Franchise Agreement is executed. City Wide installs and configures the software on the hardware components of the Technology System and is responsible for all maintenance, updates, and repairs of the software. The franchisee must maintain an internet connection to facilitate updates, support, and data exchange between the franchisee and City Wide. Franchisees are also responsible for ensuring a proper environment for the hardware components on which the software operates.
City Wide retains significant control over the software, including the right to access the Technology System at all times and to add, delete, or modify any specific software programs necessary for the operation of the Technology Systems. As the Systems Administrator, City Wide retains control of all applications. Franchisees are responsible for the costs of all enterprise upgrades and replacements of equipment required to operate the software. Additionally, franchisees must use a City Wide-provided email address for their franchised business, and all associated emails and data are considered business records.