Is the Franchise Fee refundable for a Marble Slab Creamery franchise?
Marble_Slab_Creamery Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
it Restaurant Agreement | | | |Notes:
Unless otherwise noted, all amounts listed in the tables above are non-refundable.
- If we grant you a franchise for a Traditional Restaurant, then when you sign the Franchise Agreement, you must pay us a Franchise Fee of $25,000. The Franchise Fee for a Non-Traditional Restaurant is $25,000. The Franchise Fee for a Standard Co-Brand Restaurant is $25,000 for each brand. If we permit you to operate a Satellite, you must pay us a Satellite fee of $15,000 per Satellite location when you sign the Satellite Addendum. The Franchise Fee is fully earned by us when paid and is not refundable. Additional information regarding the Franchise Fee can be found
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 32–43)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Marble Slab Creamery FDD, the franchise fee is not refundable. For a traditional or non-traditional restaurant, the franchise fee is $25,000. If a franchisee is permitted to operate a satellite location, they must pay a $15,000 satellite fee. These fees are paid when the Franchise Agreement or Satellite Addendum is signed.
This means that once a prospective Marble Slab Creamery franchisee signs the agreement and pays the franchise fee, they will not receive a refund of this fee under any circumstances. This is a common practice in franchising, as the fee is intended to compensate the franchisor for the initial costs of granting the franchise, including training, site selection assistance, and other support services.
Given that the franchise fee is non-refundable, it is crucial for potential Marble Slab Creamery franchisees to conduct thorough due diligence before signing the Franchise Agreement. This includes carefully reviewing the FDD, speaking with existing franchisees, and seeking advice from a qualified business advisor. Understanding the terms and conditions of the franchise agreement and assessing the potential risks and rewards of the franchise opportunity is essential before making a final decision.