Under what conditions can Crave require a franchisee to obtain new equipment, fixtures, supplies, and other products?
Crave Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
the importance of maintaining uniformity among all of the Franchised Businesses and the importance of complying with all of our standards and specifications relating to the operation of the Franchised Business.
7.2 System Maintenance and Improvement
You shall maintain the Franchised Business in a high degree of sanitation, repair and condition, and in connection therewith shall make such additions, alterations, repairs and replacements thereto (but no others without our prior written consent) as may be required for that purpose, including, without limitation,
such periodic repainting or replacement of obsolete signs, furnishings, equipment (including, but not limited to, point-of-sale or computer hardware and software systems), and décor as we may reasonably direct in order to maintain System-wide integrity and uniformity. You shall also obtain, at your cost and expense, any new or additional equipment (including point-of-sale or computer hardware and software systems), fixtures, supplies and other products and materials which may be reasonably required by us for you to offer and sell new menu items from the Franchised Business or to provide the Franchised Business' services by alternative means, such as through catering or delivery arrangements. Except as may be expressly provided in the Manual, no material alterations or improvements or changes of any kind in design, equipment, signs, interior or exterior décor items, fixtures or furnishings shall be made in or about the Franchised Business or its premises without our prior written approval, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 63–253)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Crave's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to purchase or lease and install fixtures, furnishings, and equipment, including point-of-sale and computer systems, as directed by Crave. These directions are provided in the Manual or in writing. Franchisees are also responsible for the costs associated with these purchases or leases.
Crave may also require franchisees to obtain new or additional equipment, fixtures, supplies, and other products and materials if it is reasonably required for offering and selling new menu items or providing services through alternative means, such as catering or delivery. Franchisees must also make necessary additions, alterations, repairs, and replacements to maintain the Franchised Business in good condition. However, franchisees cannot make material alterations or improvements to the design, equipment, signs, or décor without prior written approval from Crave, which will not be unreasonably withheld.
These stipulations ensure uniformity and compliance with Crave's standards across all franchised locations. For a prospective franchisee, this means being prepared for potential investments in upgrades or new equipment as directed by Crave to maintain brand standards, introduce new offerings, or adapt to new service methods. It is important to factor in these potential costs when evaluating the financial feasibility of the franchise.