Can the Cream Brand Fund be used to pay for developing, implementing, and maintaining any software?
Cream Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We are not required to spend any amount on marketing within any particular market. We will have exclusive control over all programs and services administered by the Brand Fund, including over the creative concepts, materials, and campaigns and their geographic market, media placement and allocation. The Brand Fund may pay for preparing and producing video, audio, and written materials and electronic media; sponsoring, supporting, and/or donating proceeds to one or more charitable, social, or community organizations or initiatives and/or hosting campaigns, initiatives, and/or events for the foregoing; developing, implementing, and maintaining any website, domain name, email
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 28–35)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cream's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Brand Fund can be used for developing, implementing, and maintaining software. Specifically, the Brand Fund may cover the costs of developing, implementing, and maintaining any website, domain name, or email address. This indicates that Cream has the discretion to allocate funds towards software-related expenses that support the brand's online presence and communication strategies.
This is a common practice in franchising, where brand funds are often used to support technology and marketing initiatives. Cream franchisees benefit from this arrangement as it helps ensure a consistent and up-to-date online presence without requiring individual franchisees to shoulder the entire burden of these costs. The franchisor's control over these funds allows for strategic allocation towards the most impactful software and digital tools.
However, Cream retains exclusive control over the Brand Fund and is not obligated to spend money in any specific market. Franchisees should be aware that Cream does not provide financial statements for the Brand Fund and can modify or suspend contributions. While the Brand Fund can be used for software, Cream franchisees have limited influence over how the funds are spent and should consider this when evaluating the franchise opportunity.