Can Azal Coffee require a supplier to keep trade secrets confidential?

According to Azal Coffee's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Azal Coffee can receive information directly from suppliers and is authorized to have suppliers provide information directly to them. As part of Article 10 in the franchise agreement, Azal Coffee states that the franchisee agrees to sign separate authorizations or additional documents requested by suppliers or that Azal Coffee deems necessary for them to obtain information directly from suppliers.

This means that Azal Coffee has the right to request and receive information from the franchisee's suppliers. While the FDD does not explicitly state that Azal Coffee requires suppliers to keep trade secrets confidential, the agreement allows Azal Coffee to establish direct communication and information channels with the suppliers.

For a prospective franchisee, this implies that Azal Coffee can monitor and potentially influence the supply chain. It is important to note that the FDD does not specify the exact nature of the information Azal Coffee can obtain from suppliers, but it does suggest that Azal Coffee has the authority to gather data related to the franchise operation. A potential franchisee should seek clarification from Azal Coffee regarding the specific types of information they collect from suppliers and any confidentiality agreements in place to protect sensitive business data.