Does Crave Cookies require franchisees to have their landlord sign a Rider to Lease Agreement?

According to Crave Cookies' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, securing a Rider to Lease Agreement from the landlord is not strictly mandatory, but franchisees must make reasonable efforts to obtain it. The FDD specifies that the business location is subject to Crave Cookies' approval and must meet their specifications. As part of this, franchisees are expected to use reasonable efforts to have their landlord sign or include Crave Cookies' form of Rider to Lease Agreement, which is attached to the disclosure document as Exhibit D.

This requirement means that while a franchisee might not be automatically disqualified if the landlord refuses to sign the Rider to Lease Agreement, they must demonstrate that they tried to obtain it. This could involve negotiations with the landlord, explaining the purpose and benefits of the rider, and possibly offering concessions to address any concerns the landlord may have. The Rider to Lease Agreement likely contains provisions that protect Crave Cookies' interests, such as ensuring the franchise can continue operating at the location even if the landlord-tenant relationship changes.

Prospective franchisees should carefully review Exhibit D, the Rider to Lease Agreement, to understand its terms and implications. They should also discuss with Crave Cookies what constitutes "reasonable efforts" in their specific situation and what alternative arrangements might be acceptable if a landlord refuses to sign the rider. Understanding these requirements is crucial during the site selection and lease negotiation process to avoid potential conflicts or delays in opening the franchise.