Does the Aw franchise agreement specify the method by which the franchisee must transfer domain names to Aw after termination?
Aw Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- (e) assign to us or our designee all of your right, title and interest in and to any domain name registrations, any web sites, and any listings or presence on any social media platforms or social media networks, or other presence on the internet using the Marks, including passwords and account manager access, and shall promptly notify the necessary parties of the termination of your license to use the Marks, and therefore, your right to use any domain name, website, or other presence on the internet using the Marks, and to authorize a transfer of same to us or our designee;
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 39–40)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Aw's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, upon termination or expiration of the franchise agreement, the franchisee is required to assign all rights and interests in any domain name registrations, websites, and social media presences using Aw's marks to Aw or its designee. This includes providing passwords and account manager access. The franchisee must also promptly notify the necessary parties about the termination of their license to use Aw's marks, which revokes their right to use any related domain names, websites, or online presence.
Specifically, the Aw franchise agreement stipulates that the franchisee must authorize a transfer of the domain name and website to Aw or its designee. This ensures that Aw maintains control over its brand and online presence after a franchise agreement ends. The franchisee is responsible for notifying relevant parties about the termination of their license to use Aw's marks, which is a crucial step in transferring ownership and preventing unauthorized use.
In addition to domain names, the franchisee must also transfer all social media accounts associated with the Aw brand, including providing passwords and account manager access. This comprehensive transfer of online assets ensures that Aw can maintain a consistent brand image and customer communication strategy across all platforms, even after a franchise relationship concludes. The franchise agreement emphasizes the importance of a smooth and complete transfer of all digital assets to protect Aw's brand and online presence.