What happens if a Bambu franchisee creates improvements to the Bambū system?
Bambu Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
hange, alter or modify the Marks or Bambū system in any way without Bambu's prior written consent which may be withheld in Bambu's sole discretion. Franchisee's approved changes or improvements to the Bambū system or the Marks shall inure to the exclusive benefit of Bambu.
- 15.7 Creative Ownership. All copyrightable or patentable works, and all discoveries, developments, designs, improvements, inventions or other information of a proprietary nature created by Franchisee or any of its owners, officers or employees in connection with the shoppe, including but not limited to any enhancements or improvements in the Bambū system, shall be the sole property of Bambu. Franchisee shall assign, or cause its owner, officer or employee to assign, all proprietary rights, including copyrights, in these works to Bambu without additional consideration.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 52–209)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bambu's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, any approved changes or improvements to the Bambū system or the Marks made by a franchisee will inure to the exclusive benefit of Bambu. This means that Bambu will own the rights to these improvements.
Specifically, all copyrightable or patentable works, discoveries, developments, designs, improvements, inventions, or other proprietary information created by the franchisee or their owners, officers, or employees in connection with the shoppe, including enhancements or improvements to the Bambū system, become the sole property of Bambu. The franchisee must assign all proprietary rights, including copyrights, to Bambu without any additional compensation.
The franchisee is also required to disclose promptly to Bambu all inventions, drink and food item preparation information, recipes, discoveries, improvements, creations, patents, copyrights, trademarks, and confidential information relating to the shoppes and the Bambū system. They must also create a written record of these items. This ensures that Bambu has full knowledge and control over any innovations related to the franchise system.