Is a Bambu franchisee allowed to hold itself out as "Bambu Franchising LLC"?
Bambu Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee shall not hold itself out as "Bambu Franchising LLC," "Chè," "Bambu Dessert Drinks," "Bambu," "Bambū," or as being associated with Bambu in any manner other than as a franchisee or licensee or as being associated with any affiliate of Bambu and shall comply with the terms of Section 20.1.
Franchisee shall, in all advertising and promotion, promotional materials, letterhead, and e-mails, display its business name only in obvious conjunction with the phrase "Bambū Licensee" or "Bambū Franchisee" or with such other words and in such other phrases to identify itself as an independent owner of the Bambū shoppe, as may from time to time be prescribed in the FRC Materials.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 52–209)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bambu's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee is explicitly prohibited from presenting themselves as "Bambu Franchising LLC" or in any way that suggests they are anything other than a franchisee or licensee. This restriction extends to other names like "Chè," "Bambu Dessert Drinks," and "Bambu," or any association with Bambu beyond being a franchisee. This is to ensure customers are not misled into thinking the franchisee is the franchisor itself.
To ensure proper representation, Bambu requires franchisees to clearly indicate their status as a "Bambū Licensee" or "Bambū Franchisee" in all advertising, promotional materials, letterheads, and emails. This must be done in conjunction with the franchisee's business name, making it obvious that the location is independently owned and operated. The specific wording and phrases used to identify the franchisee as an independent owner are subject to Bambu's specifications as outlined in the FRC Materials, which Bambu can modify over time.
This requirement protects Bambu's brand identity and prevents confusion among customers. It also ensures that the franchisee is recognized as an independent entity, responsible for its own operations and obligations. Franchisees must adhere strictly to these guidelines to avoid violating the franchise agreement and potentially facing legal consequences.