What is the definition of 'Approved Name' for an Aerus franchise?
Aerus Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Subject to Company's prior approval, the Franchised Business shall be identified and operated by Franchisee only under the assumed name (the "Approved Name") "Aerus" (including such qualifiers and descriptions as may be set or approved by Company from time to time so as to geographically or otherwise distinguish one franchise from another), including the hanging of an approved exterior sign bearing such trade name; provided, that Company shall be permitted at any time and from time to time after the date of this Agreement, upon written notice, to alter or change the assumed name under which the Franchised Business shall be identified and operated.
Franchisee shall, at its expense, make all county and state assumed name filings required by law (including any filings made necessary by a change in required trade names pursuant hereto) and provide evidence of such filing to Company.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 74–305)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Aerus's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the "Approved Name" is the assumed name under which the franchisee will identify and operate their franchise. The standard approved name is "Aerus", but it can include qualifiers and descriptions that the company sets or approves to differentiate franchises geographically or otherwise.
Aerus requires franchisees to display an approved exterior sign bearing the trade name. However, Aerus retains the right to alter or change the assumed name under which the franchise is identified and operated by providing written notice to the franchisee.
The franchisee is responsible for making all necessary county and state assumed name filings required by law, including any filings due to changes in trade names. The franchisee must also provide evidence of these filings to Aerus. This ensures that the franchise operates under a legally compliant name and that Aerus maintains control over its brand identity.
It is important to note that Aerus and its affiliates may operate businesses under similar names, trade names, and trademarks, even within the franchisee's Area of Responsibility. This highlights the importance of adhering to the specific terms of the franchise agreement to avoid confusion and potential conflicts.