The New York Post this morning reports that Cold Stone Creamery and a franchisee group are threatening CNBC. It claims that “The Untold Story of Franchising” charges the franchisor incorrectly with having hidden expenses, that it relies on kickbacks from vendors, and it “requires franchisees to purchase equipment from a company that it controls.” Lawyer Bob Zarco “represents the franchisees.”

Cold Stone refused to appear on a show that dared ask questions with such negative tone.

From those of us who have watched the news about Cold Stone Creamery these many years, those accusations are not isolated. Nor are former franchisee Cecil Rolle and CNBC the first to discuss these issues.

The NY Post article goes on to say what CNBC will do. A spokesperson for the cable news broadcaster said:

After the initial airing, Cold Stone reached out to us. Despite having time to talk to the New York Post and others, they have not agreed to a time, date or place for an on-camera interview. Assuming they do, we will include their comments in all future airings in the coming years.

Oh, I had thought this thing was meant to stop after a few reruns during the last half of December 2010.

My mistake.