Is an Aplus franchisee required to clearly identify and advertise their business as an APLUS Store?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
tribution promptly upon receipt of written notice from us.
You will operate your franchised business so that it is clearly identified and advertised as APLUS Store. You will use the trademark "APLUS" and the other Marks which now or hereafter may form a part of the System, on all signs, suppliers, business cards, uniforms, advertising materials, Technology platforms, signs and other articles in the identical combination and manner as we may prescribe in writing and you will supply to us samples and photographs of the same upon our request. You will comply with all trademark, trade name, service mark and copyright notice marking requirements and you will supply to us samples or photographs upon our request.
Marketing Fee
Each month you are required to contribute up to $1,500 or 2% of Gross Sales, whichever is less, which we call the Marketing Fee. Currently all franchisees contribute $750 per month. The majority of our company operated stores (the exceptions being of two small kiosks) pay the Marketing Fee payments on the same basis as franchisees.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 40–47)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to clearly identify and advertise their franchised business as an APLUS Store. Franchisees must use the APLUS trademark and other marks that are part of the Aplus system on all signs, suppliers, business cards, uniforms, advertising materials, technology platforms, and other articles. This must be done in the exact combination and manner prescribed in writing by Aplus.
Furthermore, Aplus requires franchisees to supply samples and photographs of these items upon request to ensure compliance with brand standards. Franchisees must also comply with all trademark, trade name, service mark, and copyright notice marking requirements. This ensures consistent branding and protects Aplus's intellectual property.
Any advertising and promotions conducted independently by the franchisee must be reviewed and approved by Aplus prior to implementation and must adhere to Aplus's standards and specifications. If a request for approval is not acted upon within 30 days, it is considered not approved. Franchisees must also immediately stop using any materials, media, or distribution methods upon receiving written notice from Aplus. This level of control allows Aplus to maintain a consistent brand image and marketing strategy across all franchise locations.