Is it required that Crave Cookies franchisees purchase proprietary boxes from Crave Cookies Franchising, LLC?

According to the 2025 Crave Cookies Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to purchase proprietary boxes from Crave Cookies Franchising, LLC. This requirement is explicitly stated in Item 1 of the FDD, which outlines the franchisor and its affiliates. This means that franchisees do not have the option to source these boxes from other suppliers; they must obtain them directly from the franchisor.

This mandatory purchasing arrangement ensures brand consistency and quality control across all Crave Cookies locations. By requiring franchisees to buy proprietary boxes, Crave Cookies can maintain a uniform presentation of its products and protect its brand image. While this may limit a franchisee's ability to negotiate prices or find alternative suppliers, it also ensures that the boxes meet the franchisor's standards for design, materials, and functionality.

In addition to proprietary boxes, franchisees are also required to purchase shirts, tumblers, gift cards, and all other Crave merchandise from Crave Cookies, LLC. This further emphasizes the franchisor's control over branding and product offerings. The FDD states that purchasing these products and services is "exclusive and mandatory," leaving no room for franchisee discretion.

Prospective franchisees should carefully consider the implications of these mandatory purchasing requirements. While they ensure brand consistency, they may also impact a franchisee's operating costs and flexibility. It is important to factor in the cost of these proprietary items when evaluating the overall financial viability of a Crave Cookies franchise.