Are there any exceptions to the definition of 'Competitive Business' for the All Dogs Unleashed non-compete agreement?
All_Dogs_Unleashed Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
For purposes of this Agreement, the term "Competitive Business" means any (i) business providing dog training, grooming, daycare, or boarding services, or (ii) any other business involved in providing dog training, grooming, daycare, or boarding services, or (iii) any other business offering products and services offered or authorized for sale by System franchisees ((i) through (iii) each a "Competing Business"), or (iv) any business offering or granting licenses or franchises for the right to operate a Competing Business; provided, however, that this Section does not apply to your operation of any other All Dogs Unleashed Facility under a license or Franchise Agreement with us.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 49–158)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 All Dogs Unleashed Franchise Disclosure Document, the term 'Competitive Business' is broadly defined to include businesses providing dog training, grooming, daycare, or boarding services, as well as those offering related products and services authorized for sale by All Dogs Unleashed franchisees. This definition also extends to businesses that offer or grant licenses or franchises for operating a competing business.
However, there is a specific exception to this definition. The non-compete restrictions do not apply to a franchisee's operation of another All Dogs Unleashed facility under a license or Franchise Agreement with the company. This means a franchisee can own and operate multiple All Dogs Unleashed locations without violating the non-compete agreement.
This exception allows franchisees to expand their investment within the All Dogs Unleashed system without being penalized. It is a common practice in franchising to allow multi-unit ownership, as it can lead to more committed and experienced franchisees. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider the implications of the non-compete agreement and this exception, especially if they have existing businesses in the pet services industry or are considering opening multiple All Dogs Unleashed locations.