What are 'Proprietary Marks' as defined in the Amorino franchise agreement?
Amorino Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- C. The System is identified by means of certain proprietary trademarks, trade names, service marks, logotypes, trade styles, commercial symbols, emblems, and indicia of origin, including the mark "Amorino" and such other trade names, service marks, and trademarks as are now designated and may hereafter be designated by Amorino in writing for use in connection with the System (collectively, the "Proprietary Marks"), together with certain copyrights, advertising and promotional materials and practices, training materials, product packaging, operations manuals, including the Manual, and other works of authorship which are owned by Amorino and fixed in a tangible medium of expression (collectively, the "Copyrighted Materials").
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 80–81)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Amorino's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Proprietary Marks are defined as certain proprietary trademarks, trade names, service marks, logotypes, trade styles, commercial symbols, emblems, and indicia of origin, including the mark "Amorino". These marks are designated by Amorino in writing for use in connection with the Amorino system.
As an Amorino franchisee, you are granted the right to use these Proprietary Marks solely in connection with the operation of your franchised business. This includes using the marks to identify your store and in all advertising and promotional materials. However, this right is subject to Amorino's control and authorization, meaning you must use the marks in the manner they prescribe and with the appropriate symbols (®", "TM", or "SM").
The franchise agreement emphasizes that Amorino or its affiliate owns all rights, titles, and interests in the Proprietary Marks, and any goodwill associated with them. As a franchisee, you have no ownership interest in these marks, and any goodwill generated through your use of them accrues solely to the benefit of Amorino. Upon termination or expiration of the franchise agreement, your right to use the Proprietary Marks ceases, and no monetary value is attributed to any goodwill you've built through their use.
Amorino also retains the right to modify or replace the Proprietary Marks, and you would be responsible for the costs associated with implementing such changes in your store. Furthermore, you are obligated to notify Amorino of any suspected unauthorized use or challenges to the validity of the Proprietary Marks. This comprehensive control over the Proprietary Marks allows Amorino to maintain brand consistency and protect its intellectual property, while also placing the responsibility for brand-related legal matters primarily on the franchisor.