Can Cream approve or disapprove alternative vendors that I want to use for my Cream franchise?

According to Cream's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Cream has the authority to approve or disapprove alternative vendors that a franchisee may want to use. This is explicitly stated as one of the assistance functions Cream provides during the operation of the Scoop Shop.

This approval process is a standard practice in franchising, designed to maintain consistency and quality across all franchise locations. By retaining the right to approve or disapprove vendors, Cream can ensure that all products and services used by franchisees meet the brand's standards. This helps protect the brand's reputation and ensures customers receive a consistent experience at any Cream location.

For a prospective franchisee, this means that you cannot independently choose your own suppliers without Cream's consent. If you wish to use a vendor not already approved by Cream, you must seek their approval. This requirement is in place to uphold the quality and uniformity of the Cream brand. Franchisees should discuss vendor approval criteria with Cream to understand the standards and processes involved.