Are Cream franchisees responsible for complying with accessibility laws for persons with disabilities?
Cream Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Certain aspects of food service businesses are heavily regulated by federal, state, and local laws, rules, and ordinances. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and various state and local departments of health and other agencies have laws and regulations concerning the preparation of food, display of nutrition facts, minimum wage, and health and safety conditions. State and local agencies routinely conduct inspections for compliance. You must also comply with laws applicable to businesses in your area generally, including compensation of employees, business licensure, zoning, real estate and occupational permitting, construction permitting, accessibility for persons with disabilities, sales and use tax, health and safety, and emergency orders related to public health or safety. There may be other laws applicable to your business.
Source: Item 1 — THE FRANCHISOR, AND ANY PARENTS, PREDECESSORS, AND AFFILIATES (FDD pages 8–10)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cream's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are responsible for complying with accessibility laws for persons with disabilities. Cream franchisees must adhere to laws applicable to businesses in their area, including those related to accessibility for persons with disabilities, compensation of employees, business licensure, zoning, real estate and occupational permitting, construction permitting, sales and use tax, health and safety, and emergency orders related to public health or safety.
This means that prospective Cream franchisees need to ensure their chosen location and shop design meet all federal, state, and local accessibility requirements. This could involve modifications to the physical space, such as ramps, accessible restrooms, and appropriate counter heights. It also extends to ensuring that services and communication are accessible to individuals with disabilities, which may include providing menus in alternative formats or offering assistance to customers with disabilities.
Failing to comply with these laws can result in fines, legal action, and damage to Cream's brand reputation. Therefore, it is crucial for franchisees to thoroughly understand and implement all necessary measures to ensure accessibility. Franchisees should consult with legal and construction professionals to ensure full compliance during the build-out and operation of their Cream location.
Compliance with accessibility laws is a standard requirement for franchisees across various industries, as it ensures equal access and opportunity for all customers. Cream franchisees should view this as an integral part of their business operations and a commitment to inclusivity.