Does the Apricot Lane franchise agreement define 'Associate' to include the Associate's employees?

According to Apricot Lane's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the term "Associate" is explicitly defined within the agreement. The definition extends beyond just the individual or entity initially described in the agreement. It encompasses a range of individuals and entities connected to the Associate.

Specifically, the definition of "Associate" includes the Associate's managers, officers, beneficial owners, directors, employees, shareholders, partners, members, principals, immediate family members, and domestic partners. This broad definition has significant implications for franchisees, as it extends the responsibilities and obligations of the Associate to a wide range of related parties.

For a prospective Apricot Lane franchisee, this means that not only are they responsible for their own actions, but also for the actions of their managers, officers, employees, and other listed parties. This is particularly important in the context of confidentiality and non-competition clauses, as these obligations extend to all individuals and entities included in the definition of "Associate." Therefore, franchisees must ensure that all individuals and entities connected to them are aware of and comply with the terms of the franchise agreement.