Who bears the cost and expense of the panel on any pylon/monument/directory sign for the Cream franchise?

According to Cream's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee bears the cost and expense of the panel on any pylon, monument, or directory sign. The landlord agrees to allow the franchisee to use Cream's standard interior and exterior signage and designs, as permitted by local governmental authorities. The franchisee is responsible for the cost of the panel on any pylon, monument, or directory sign for the development where the premises is located and is permitted to install a standard sign approved by Cream, including Cream's logo.

This means that while the landlord must allow the Cream franchisee to use the brand's signage, the franchisee is responsible for paying for the actual sign panel itself. This includes the cost of materials, manufacturing, and installation on any shared signage structures like pylons or directories.

For a prospective Cream franchisee, this represents an additional upfront cost to consider when budgeting for the new franchise location. It is important to obtain quotes for these signage elements during the site selection and build-out phase to accurately estimate these expenses. Franchisees should also confirm with Cream about approved sign vendors and specifications to ensure compliance and manage costs effectively.