Can an Annex Brands franchisee display signs or graphics at the Center that are not approved by the Franchisor?
Annex_Brands Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ure_0.jpeg)
No replacement of leasehold improvements, furnishings, equipment, displays, signs, or graphics will be made, nor will any material alteration to the Center as originally developed or approved by Franchisor be made, without Franchisor's prior written consent. Franchisee will place or display at and within the Center only such signs, logos, emblems, lettering, graphics, and display materials as are periodically approved or designated in writing by Franchisor. Franchisor may require any changes, replacements, or modifications not previously approved by Franchisor to be rectified at Franchisee's sole expense and Franchisee will promptly make any such changes, replacements or modifications.
B. AUTHORIZED PRODUCTS, EQUIPMENT, AND SERVICES. The presentation of a uniform image to the public and the resulting positive reputation and goodwill are essential elements of a successful franchise system. Franchisee therefore agrees that the Center will offer for sale such products, services, and will use those brands and models of equipment as Franchisor, in its sole discretion, periodically determines to be appropriate for Centers.
In determining approved brands and models of equipment, Franchisor may consider standards of quality, value, customer recognition and acceptance, advertising support and availability, and such other standards as are periodically determined by Franchisor to be relevant. Certain trade dress fixtures, equipment, supplies, other merchandise and services may be required to be purchased directly from Franchisor and/or its affiliates, or may be permitted to be purchased from other suppliers provided Franchisor is held harmless by Franchisee regarding any products liability cause of action. On items or services sold by Franchisor and/or its affiliates, Franchisor anticipates a reasonable profit to cover overhead expenses.
Franchisor may periodically publish a suggested price list for products and services offered at the Center. The purpose of such a list is for guidance only.
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD pages 109–110)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Annex Brands's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must obtain prior written consent from Annex Brands before making any material alterations to the Center as originally developed or approved. This includes replacements of leasehold improvements, furnishings, equipment, displays, signs, or graphics. Franchisees are only permitted to place or display signs, logos, emblems, lettering, graphics, and display materials that have been periodically approved or designated in writing by Annex Brands.
This requirement ensures that all Annex Brands locations maintain a uniform image and adhere to the franchisor's brand standards. If a franchisee displays unapproved signs or graphics, Annex Brands has the right to require the franchisee to rectify these unapproved items at the franchisee's sole expense. The franchisee is obligated to promptly make any changes, replacements, or modifications as directed by Annex Brands.
To use any signage not already approved, franchisees must first notify Annex Brands in writing and submit detailed information, specifications, photographs, drawings, or samples for Annex Brands to determine whether the proposed signage complies with their standards. This process allows Annex Brands to maintain control over the brand's image and ensure consistency across all franchise locations.
The FDD emphasizes the importance of a uniform image for the success of the Annex Brands franchise system. By requiring franchisees to use only approved signs and graphics, Annex Brands aims to protect its reputation and goodwill, which are essential for attracting and retaining customers. This standardization also helps customers easily recognize and trust the Annex Brands brand, regardless of the specific location they visit.