Are the staffing guidelines provided by Crave Cookies Franchising mandatory for franchisees?

According to Crave Cookies's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the staffing guidelines and best practices provided by Crave Cookies Franchising are not mandatory. However, Crave Cookies strongly recommends that franchisees follow these guidelines for optimal franchise performance. The FDD clearly states that the franchisee has the sole responsibility for all staffing decisions and any outcomes associated with those decisions.

This means that while Crave Cookies offers guidance on staffing, franchisees have the autonomy to make their own choices regarding hiring, training, and managing employees. This flexibility allows franchisees to tailor their staffing strategies to the specific needs and conditions of their location and market.

However, it's important to note that deviating from Crave Cookies's recommended staffing guidelines could potentially impact the performance of the franchise. While not mandatory, these guidelines are designed to help franchisees operate efficiently and effectively. Franchisees should carefully consider the potential benefits of following the recommended practices before making independent staffing decisions. Prospective franchisees should discuss the specifics of these staffing guidelines with Crave Cookies to fully understand their recommendations and the potential implications of not adhering to them.