What happens if Cream requires an upgrade, remodel, or refurbishment for a transfer?
Cream Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- (7) you have corrected any existing deficiencies of your Shop of which we have notified you, and/or the transferee agrees to upgrade, remodel, and refurbish your Shop in accordance with our then-current specifications for Jeni's Ice Creams Scoop Shops within the time period we specify following the date of the transfer and the transferee agrees to escrow an amount we approve for payment of the required upgrade, remodel or refurbishment;
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 61–192)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cream's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if the company notifies a transferring franchisee of any existing shop deficiencies, the transferee must agree to correct them. Alternatively, the transferee can agree to upgrade, remodel, and refurbish the shop according to Cream's current standards for Jeni's Ice Creams Scoop Shops. This work must be completed within the timeframe Cream specifies after the transfer date.
To ensure the upgrade, remodel, or refurbishment is completed, the transferee must agree to escrow an amount approved by Cream to cover the costs. This escrow acts as a financial guarantee that the necessary improvements will be made to meet Cream's standards.
This requirement ensures that all Cream locations maintain a consistent brand image and meet current operational standards, even when ownership changes. For a prospective franchisee, this means being prepared to invest in upgrades or remodels as a condition of acquiring an existing Cream franchise, and setting aside funds in escrow to cover these costs.