Marble Slab Creamery

What specific disputes are reflected in the 6 total litigation cases, and how were the 3 cases initiated by the franchisor resolved?

Can you provide details on the 1 pending litigation case, including the nature of the dispute and expected timeline for resolution?

The transfer rate of 8.4% is notably higher than typical for this category. What are the primary reasons franchisees are transferring their units?

Why has the transfer rate increased 23.5% from 2022 (17 units) to 2024 (21 units) while closures remained relatively stable?

Sales for median units ($457,502) and top quartile units ($700,000) are both below category norms. What is driving lower-than-average unit economics?

With 12 units closed in 2024 (compared to 9 in prior years), is this trend continuing or stabilizing?

The franchise agreement specifies only 5 days to cure payment defaults. How many defaults have resulted in termination under this clause in the past 3 years?

Can you explain the 16 non-curable defaults that allow immediate termination without cure period? How frequently are these invoked?

What is your experience with the mandatory binding arbitration requirement in Los Angeles, California? What are typical costs and timelines for disputes?

The personal guarantee requirement extends to the franchisee's spouse. Are spouses required to sign this guarantee, and what are the implications if the marriage dissolves?

The initial term of 15 years is significantly longer than typical. What protection do franchisees have if the business is not profitable during this extended period?

With a total potential term of 35 years (initial 15 + two 10-year renewals), what conditions could the franchisor impose at renewal, and are renewal fees fixed or variable?

The renewal fee is $10,000. Are there any other fees or system upgrades required at renewal that could increase total renewal costs?

Territory is non-exclusive. Can the franchisor open competing Marble Slab Creamery locations near my unit, and if so, what is the notice period?

Despite having encroachment protection listed, how is this protection defined and enforced if a new location would impact existing unit sales?

The non-compete clause restricts operation within 2 years and 5 miles post-termination. Are there geographic or time-period variations based on the reason for departure?

Technology fees are $70/month. What technology systems are included, and are there additional technology costs beyond this monthly fee?

Have there been significant changes to technology systems or fees in the past 3-5 years, and what are the plans for technology investments going forward?

With 249 total units, what percentage are company-owned vs. franchisee-operated, and how does company performance compare to franchisee units?

Can you provide a breakdown of the 21 units transferred in 2024—were these voluntary sales, forced sales, or conversions to company ownership?