What actions must an Aplus franchisee take regarding assumed names or equivalent registrations containing the APLUS name or any other Mark upon termination or expiration of the agreement?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- 17.1.3. Take such action as may be necessary to cancel or assign to Franchisor, at Franchisor's option, any assumed name or equivalent registration filed with state, city or county authorities which contains the name APLUS or any other Mark, and Franchisee shall furnish Franchisor with evidence satisfactory to Franchisor of compliance with this obligation within thirty (30) days after termination or expiration of this Agreement;
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 68–302)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, upon termination or expiration of the franchise agreement, a franchisee must take specific actions regarding any assumed names or equivalent registrations. The franchisee is required to take necessary steps to either cancel or assign to Aplus any assumed name or equivalent registration filed with state, city, or county authorities that includes the name "APLUS" or any other Aplus mark.
Furthermore, the franchisee must provide Aplus with satisfactory evidence of compliance with this obligation within thirty days after the termination or expiration of the franchise agreement. This ensures that the franchisee no longer uses the Aplus brand name or associated marks after the agreement ends, preventing potential confusion or misuse of the brand.
This requirement is standard practice in franchising to protect the brand's integrity and prevent former franchisees from benefiting from the brand's reputation after their agreement concludes. It is crucial for prospective franchisees to understand these obligations to avoid legal issues post-termination.