If Cream modifies its system standards, what must a Cream franchisee do to comply?
Cream Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You understand that the System will continue to evolve during the Term and the System Standards may change periodically. These modifications may obligate you to invest additional capital in your Shop and/or incur higher operating costs. You agree to implement any changes to your Shop in accordance with our System Standards within the time period we request, including by purchasing any additional or modified equipment, inventory, or other products or supplies, using alternative suppliers, making changes to signage and advertising materials, offering additional or modified products or services, changing marketing or business strategies, and/or updating the Computer System. You will be solely responsible for the
Source: Item 16 — RESTRICTIONS ON WHAT THE FRANCHISEE MAY SELL (FDD pages 43–44)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cream's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must adhere to any modifications or supplements to the brand's System Standards. Cream retains the right to periodically modify these standards, and franchisees are responsible for the day-to-day management and operation of their shop, including the implementation and maintenance of these standards. System Standards may regulate any aspect of the operation and maintenance of the shop.
Cream franchisees must implement any changes to their shop in accordance with Cream's System Standards within the requested time period. This includes purchasing any additional or modified equipment, inventory, or other products or supplies, using alternative suppliers, making changes to signage and advertising materials, offering additional or modified products or services, changing marketing or business strategies, and/or updating the Computer System. The franchisee is solely responsible for the costs associated with these changes.
This requirement means that prospective Cream franchisees should be prepared for potential future investments in their shop to keep it aligned with Cream's evolving standards. These investments could range from minor updates to significant overhauls, and franchisees bear the financial burden of these changes. This is a fairly standard practice in franchising, as franchisors need to maintain consistency and quality across all locations, but the financial impact should be carefully considered.