Can an Afuri Ramen Dumpling franchisee use the Marks in combination with other words or phrases?

According to the 2024 Afuri Ramen Dumpling Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are restricted from combining the brand's Marks with other names or words in any advertising or signage. This means that franchisees must adhere strictly to the approved branding guidelines and are not allowed to create any variations or combinations of the Afuri Ramen Dumpling name or logo with other elements. This restriction ensures brand consistency and uniformity across all franchise locations.

Furthermore, the FDD states that franchisees, their owners, officers, and agents are prohibited from forming or participating in any company, firm, corporation, or entity that includes the words of the Marks in its name. This prevents any potential confusion or dilution of the Afuri Ramen Dumpling brand by preventing franchisees from creating related but separate business entities with similar names.

The FDD also emphasizes that the Marks must be used in exact conformity with the specifications set forth in the Operations Manual. This underscores the importance of adhering to the franchisor's guidelines and maintaining a consistent brand image. Afuri Ramen Dumpling retains the right to change or modify any part of the Marks, Operations Manual, or System periodically at its sole discretion, and franchisees are obligated to accept and implement these changes. These stipulations are typical in franchising, as franchisors prioritize brand control and uniformity to protect the overall value and recognition of the brand.