What is the role of Sunmarks, LLC in relation to the Aplus franchise, and what do they own?
Aplus Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Our affiliate, Sunmarks, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company ("Sunmarks"), was formed on May 23, 1990, and owns certain Marks and licenses us the right to use them and to sub-license their use to franchisees. Sunmarks shares our principal business address. Sunmarks has never offered franchises in any line of business.
Source: Item 1 — THE FRANCHISOR AND ANY PARENTS, PREDECESSORS AND AFFILIATES (FDD pages 10–13)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Aplus's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Sunmarks, LLC is an affiliate of Sunoco Retail LLC, the franchisor of Aplus. Sunmarks was formed on May 23, 1990. Its primary role is to own certain Marks (trademarks, service marks, and logos) and license Sunoco Retail LLC the right to use them and sublicense their use to Aplus franchisees.
This arrangement is common in franchising, where a separate entity owns the intellectual property and licenses it to the operating company. This structure can provide legal and financial benefits to the overall organization. The FDD indicates that Sunmarks shares the same principal business address as Sunoco Retail LLC, suggesting a close relationship between the two entities.
Prospective Aplus franchisees should understand that their right to use the Aplus and Sunoco trademarks is ultimately derived from the license granted by Sunmarks to Sunoco Retail LLC. Any changes or issues affecting this license could potentially impact the franchisee's ability to operate under those brands. It is also worth noting that Sunmarks has never offered franchises in any line of business.