After the transfer, expiration, termination, or non-renewal of an Annex Brands franchise, who has the sole right to telephone numbers associated with the Marks?

According to Annex Brands' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, after the transfer, expiration, termination, or non-renewal of a franchise, Annex Brands retains the sole right to and interest in all telephone and fax numbers associated with the Marks. This means a franchisee loses all rights to use any phone numbers associated with the Annex Brands business. This includes the main business line, any fax numbers, and any directory listings tied to the brand. The franchisee must discontinue using these numbers and transfer them as directed by Annex Brands.

Annex Brands has the power of attorney to direct service providers to transfer these numbers. Franchisees must promptly notify their telephone service provider and all listing agencies of the termination of their right to use these numbers. They must also authorize the immediate transfer or termination of the service at Annex Brands' direction. If a franchisee fails or refuses to do so, Annex Brands is authorized to act on their behalf to ensure the transfer occurs.

This provision ensures that Annex Brands maintains control over its brand identity and customer communications. By retaining ownership of phone numbers and other online assets, Annex Brands can ensure a consistent brand experience and prevent confusion among customers after a franchise changes hands or ceases operation. This is a fairly standard practice in franchising, as it protects the integrity of the brand and ensures a smooth transition when a franchise agreement ends.