Can an Aerus franchisee operate under a name other than the Approved Name?

According to the 2025 Aerus Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are generally required to operate under the "Approved Name," which is "Aerus." However, a franchisee may operate under a different name if they obtain prior written approval from Aerus. The Approved Name may include qualifiers and descriptions to differentiate franchises geographically or otherwise, as set or approved by Aerus. Aerus retains the right to alter or change the assumed name under which the Franchised Business is identified and operated by providing written notice to the franchisee.

Franchisees are responsible for making all necessary county and state assumed name filings required by law, including filings due to changes in trade names, and must provide evidence of such filings to Aerus. The franchisee must use the Approved Name, including an approved exterior sign bearing the trade name, to identify and operate the Franchised Business.

This requirement ensures brand consistency and uniformity across all Aerus franchise locations. A prospective franchisee should consider the importance of adhering to the franchisor's branding guidelines and the potential limitations this places on their ability to create a unique identity for their business. It is also important to understand the process for requesting and obtaining approval to use a different name, and the circumstances under which Aerus might alter the Approved Name.