What symbol should a 1-800-GOT-JUNK? franchisee use to indicate the Marks are trademarks?
1_800_Got_Junk Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee shall use ®, TM or some other symbol directed by Franchisor, to indicate to the public that each of the Marks is a trademark belonging to Franchisor and shall in such usage clearly indicate this by using the phrase “Trademark owned by RBDS Rubbish Boys Disposal Service Inc.” or some other phrase designated or approved by Franchisor.
All provisions of this Agreement applicable to the Marks shall apply to any additional proprietary trademarks, service marks and commercial symbols hereafter authorized by Franchisor for use by Franchisee from time to time.
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD page 24)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 FDD, a 1-800-GOT-JUNK? franchisee must use specific symbols to indicate that the brand's marks are registered trademarks. The franchisee is required to use either the established symbols like ®, TM, or any other symbol that 1-800-GOT-JUNK? directs them to use.
In addition to using the appropriate symbol, the franchisee must also clearly indicate that the trademark belongs to "RBDS Rubbish Boys Disposal Service Inc." or another phrase that 1-800-GOT-JUNK? designates or approves. This ensures that the public is aware of the trademark ownership and protects the brand's intellectual property.
This requirement extends to all proprietary trademarks, service marks, and commercial symbols that 1-800-GOT-JUNK? authorizes the franchisee to use in the future. This means that as the brand evolves and introduces new marks, the franchisee must consistently adhere to the specified usage guidelines to maintain brand integrity and legal compliance.