What data on the Cream franchisee's Computer System does Cream NOT have access to?
Cream Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must use the Computer System to maintain certain sales and other financial data, customer information, and other information we designate. We will have unlimited, independent access to your Computer System at all times, other than the software you use to maintain payroll and other human resource files. You must ensure that we and our designees will have the right to collect and retain from the Computer System any and all data concerning your Shop.
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, Cream has extensive access to the franchisee's computer system. Cream requires franchisees to use a Computer System to maintain sales, financial, and customer data, and Cream has unlimited access to this system. However, this access does not extend to software used for payroll and other human resource files.
This means that while Cream can collect and retain almost all data concerning the franchisee's shop, the franchisee's confidential employee information is protected. This is a common practice in franchising, as it respects the privacy of employee data while still allowing the franchisor to monitor business performance.
For a prospective Cream franchisee, this is a notable benefit. It ensures that while Cream can oversee operations and collect necessary data for system-wide improvements and monitoring, the franchisee retains control over sensitive employee information. This division of access can help maintain a balance between franchisor oversight and franchisee autonomy.