Is Crave Cookies Franchising obligated to operate social media accounts for the Crave Cookies system?
Crave_Cookies Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee shall not conduct any marketing, advertising, or public relations activities (including in-store marketing materials, websites, online advertising, social media marketing or presence, and sponsorships) that have not been approved by Crave Cookies Franchising. Crave Cookies Franchising may (but is not obligated to) operate all "social media" accounts on behalf of the System, or it may permit franchisees to operate one or more accounts. Franchisee must comply with any System Standards regarding marketing, advertising, and public relations, include any social media policy that Crave Cookies Franchising may prescribe. Franchisee shall implement any marketing plans or campaigns determined by Crave Cookies Franchising.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 47)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Crave Cookies's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Crave Cookies Franchising is not obligated to operate social media accounts for the system. While Crave Cookies Franchising retains the right to manage social media accounts on behalf of the entire Crave Cookies system, it is explicitly stated that they "may (but is not obligated to) operate all 'social media' accounts on behalf of the System".
This means that as a franchisee, you cannot depend on Crave Cookies Franchising to handle social media marketing for the brand. However, the document does state that Crave Cookies Franchising may permit franchisees to operate one or more accounts. If Crave Cookies Franchising allows franchisees to operate social media accounts, franchisees must adhere to any System Standards and social media policies that Crave Cookies Franchising prescribes.
As a prospective franchisee, it's important to clarify with Crave Cookies Franchising the extent to which you can independently manage social media and what support or guidelines they provide. Understanding these expectations will help you plan your local marketing strategies effectively and ensure compliance with Crave Cookies's brand standards.