If a Bambu franchisee uses a celebrity in advertising, is there any compensation from Bambu to that celebrity?
Bambu Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
13.1 Approval of Advertising. Franchisee shall obtain Bambu's prior written approval of all advertising or other marketing or promotional programs or materials regarding the Bambū shoppe, whether printed or digital, including, without limitation, online directory or search engine marketing, newspaper ads, flyers, brochures, magazines, coupons, direct mail pieces, specialty and novelty items, and radio, television, social media materials and videos, and in-shoppe marketing. Franchisee shall also obtain Bambu's prior written approval before using any promotional materials that vendors may provide. The proposed written or electronic advertising or a description of the marketing or promotional program shall be submitted to Bambu at least 30 days prior to publication, broadcast, posting or other use. Bambu may
withhold its approval of advertising in its sole discretion. Franchisee acknowledges that advertising and promoting the Bambū shoppe in accordance with Bambu's standards and specifications is an essential aspect of the Bambū system, and Franchisee agrees to comply with all advertising and marketing standards and specifications. Franchisee shall display all required promotional materials, signs, point of purchase displays and other marketing materials in its Bambū shoppe and in the manner prescribed by Bambu.
13.2 Local Advertising. Bambu recommends Franchisee conduct local advertising to create public awareness of Franchisee's Bambū shoppe. Franchisee shall obtain Bambu's prior written approval of all advertising and promotional materials before publication.
Source: Item 18 — Public Figures (FDD pages 46–47)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
Based on the 2025 FDD, the document does not specify whether Bambu provides compensation to celebrities used in franchisee advertising. However, the FDD does state that a franchisee must obtain Bambu's prior written approval for all advertising and promotional materials, including social media and videos. This approval process gives Bambu control over the advertising content and ensures it aligns with the brand's standards.
Item 13.2 states that Bambu recommends franchisees conduct local advertising to create public awareness of their Bambu shop, but franchisees must obtain Bambu's prior written approval of all advertising and promotional materials before publication. This suggests that while franchisees have the option to engage in local advertising, they must adhere to Bambu's guidelines and secure approval for their materials.
Because the FDD does not address celebrity compensation, it is important for a prospective franchisee to directly ask Bambu about its policies on using celebrities in advertising and whether any compensation or support is provided in such cases. This will help the franchisee understand the full scope of advertising options and any associated costs or benefits.