When is the Cream development fee due?
Cream Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
INITIAL INVESTMENT
(Area Development Agreement)
| Type of Expenditure | Amount | Method of | When Due | To Whom | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low | High | Payment | ,, non 2 uo | Payment is Made | ||
| Development Fee 1 | $105,000 | $150,000 | Lump sum |
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 17–22)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cream's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the development fee is due upon signing the Area Development Agreement. The development fee ranges from $105,000 to $150,000, depending on the number of Jeni's Ice Creams Scoop Shops the franchisee agrees to develop.
Specifically, if a franchisee agrees to develop three shops, the development fee is $105,000, which breaks down to $35,000 per shop. For four shops, the fee is $140,000, also at $35,000 per shop. If the agreement is for five shops, the development fee is $150,000, which averages to $30,000 per shop.
This upfront payment is made directly to Cream. It's important for prospective franchisees to factor this payment schedule into their initial investment planning, as it is required at the outset of the agreement.