Can Crown Gold Franchising modify the Manual for Crown Gold Exchange franchisees?
Crown_Gold_Exchange Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
11.1 Manual; Modification. The Manual, and any part of the Manual, may be in any form or media determined by Crown Gold Franchising.
Crown Gold Franchising may supplement, revise, or modify the Manual, and Crown Gold Franchising may change, add or delete System Standards at any time in its discretion.
Crown Gold Franchising may inform Franchisee thereof by any method that Crown Gold Franchising deems appropriate (which need not qualify as "notice" under Section 18.9).
In the event of any dispute as to the contents of the Manual, Crown Gold Franchising's master copy will control.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 38–39)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Crown Gold Exchange's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Crown Gold Franchising has the right to modify the Manual for its franchisees. The Manual contains the Brand Standards for a Crown Gold Exchange business. Crown Gold Franchising can supplement, revise, or modify the Manual, and change, add, or delete System Standards at any time, using any method of communication they deem appropriate.
This means that as a Crown Gold Exchange franchisee, you must stay updated on any changes to the Manual, as these changes are within Crown Gold Franchising's discretion. The method of communication might not qualify as formal "notice." It is the franchisee's responsibility to remain compliant with the most current standards.
In case of a dispute about the Manual's contents, Crown Gold Franchising's master copy will be the controlling document. Therefore, franchisees should maintain open communication with the franchisor to ensure they have the most up-to-date information and are adhering to the correct standards. This level of franchisor control over operational standards is typical in franchising, allowing for brand consistency across all locations.
The franchisee must always comply with all mandatory obligations contained in the Manual and with all other System Standards at their own expense. This includes offering only the products and services prescribed by Crown Gold Franchising in the Manual or otherwise in writing and implementing any guaranties, warranties, or similar commitments regarding products and/or services that Crown Gold Franchising may require.