A new CNBC documentary on franchising has one Scottsdale, Ariz., company ice-screaming mad.
Cold Stone Creamery and a franchisee group are threatening legal action against the business cable network, claiming this month’s documentary, “Behind the Counter: The Untold Story of Franchising,” incorrectly portrayed the company as a cold-hearted firm that charges franchisees hidden expenses, relies on kickbacks from vendors and requires franchisees to purchase equipment from a company it controls.
Lawyer Robert Zarco, who represents the Cold Stone franchisees, said the program unfairly put the big chill on their businesses by relying solely on a former Florida franchisee Cecil Rolle, who already lost a legal battle against the company making similar, if not identical, charges. Read more.
