Does Crab N Spice guarantee in-person support if requested by the franchisee?

According to Crab N Spice's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, while in-person support is not guaranteed, it may be provided at the discretion of Crab N Spice. Specifically, if a franchisee requests assistance with improving their business or resolving operational issues, Crab N Spice states that they "will provide advice to you (by telephone or electronic communication) regarding improving and developing your business, and resolving operating problems you encounter, to the extent we deem reasonable." This suggests that the initial support will likely be remote, via phone or email.

However, the FDD indicates that in-person support may be available. If Crab N Spice does provide in-person support, they may charge the franchisee a fee of $500 per day, in addition to covering any out-of-pocket expenses incurred by Crab N Spice employees, such as travel, lodging, and meals.

This policy is fairly typical in the franchise industry. Franchisors often provide initial support remotely to control costs, but offer on-site assistance for more complex issues, usually for a fee. Prospective Crab N Spice franchisees should consider this potential expense when budgeting for ongoing operational costs and understand that in-person support is not guaranteed.