Is participation in the mystery shopper program mandatory for Crave franchisees?
Crave Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We may designate an independent evaluation service to conduct a "mystery shopper" quality control and evaluation program with respect to Franchised Businesses. You agree that the Franchised Business will participate in such mystery shopper program, as prescribed and required by us, provided that Crave businesses owned by us, our affiliates and our franchisees also will participate in such program to the extent we have the right to require such participation, and you further agree to pay all fees related to such mystery shopper program.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 63–253)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Crave's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, participation in the mystery shopper program is mandatory. Crave may designate an independent evaluation service to conduct a "mystery shopper" quality control and evaluation program.
As a Crave franchisee, you must participate in this program as prescribed and required by Crave. This means you cannot opt out of the mystery shopper program if Crave implements it. The FDD specifies that Crave businesses owned by Crave, its affiliates, and other franchisees will also participate in the program to the extent Crave has the right to require such participation.
Furthermore, the franchisee is responsible for paying all fees associated with the mystery shopper program. This implies an ongoing cost for franchisees to maintain quality control and meet Crave's evaluation standards. Franchisees should budget for these fees and understand the potential impact of mystery shopper evaluations on their business operations.