Does Cream determine the frequency of mystery shopper evaluations?
Cream Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Type of Fee | Amount | Due Date | Remarks 1, 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mystery Shoppers | Reimbursement of our costs and expenses | As incurred | We may engage an independent shopping service to evaluate your Shop. We will determine the frequency, nature, and extent of the evaluation services. You must reimburse all fees and costs charged by the independent shopping service. |
Source: Item 6 — OTHER FEES (FDD pages 13–17)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cream's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Cream has the authority to determine the frequency of mystery shopper evaluations. As detailed in Item 6 regarding other fees, Cream may hire an independent shopping service to assess a franchisee's shop. Cream determines how often these evaluations occur, along with the nature and extent of the services provided by the mystery shoppers.
As a Cream franchisee, you are responsible for reimbursing Cream for all fees and costs charged by the independent shopping service. This means that the cost of these evaluations will be passed on to you. The FDD does not specify a limit to how often Cream may conduct these evaluations, so it is important to factor in the potential ongoing costs of mystery shopper services when considering this franchise opportunity.
Prospective franchisees should consider this when projecting expenses and discuss with Cream the typical frequency and cost of mystery shopper evaluations for existing locations. Understanding these potential costs is crucial for accurate financial planning and assessing the overall profitability of a Cream franchise.