What is the registration date for the 'BAMBU' trademark used by Bambu?
Bambu Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Mark | Registration No. | Registration Date |
|---|---|---|
| BAMBŪ | Reg. No. 5,321,756 | October 31, 2017 |
| BAMBU | Reg. No. 4,792,688 | August 18, 2015 |
Source: Item 13 — (FDD pages 40–42)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bambu's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the trademark 'BAMBU' is registered under Reg. No. 4,792,688 with a registration date of August 18, 2015. This means that Bambu has legal rights to use this trademark for its business operations. As a franchisee, you are granted a nonexclusive right to use this mark, among others, in connection with your franchised business.
It is important for prospective franchisees to understand the implications of trademark registration. Registered trademarks provide stronger legal protection compared to unregistered trademarks. Bambu also claims common law trademark rights to other words, phrases, or designs, but these unregistered marks do not have as many legal benefits. If there's a challenge to Bambu's right to use these unregistered trademarks, franchisees might need to switch to an alternative trademark, potentially incurring additional expenses.
Bambu states that there are no current determinations by the USPTO or any pending infringement, opposition, or cancellation proceedings involving the marks. Bambu has also filed all necessary affidavits and renewed registrations to keep the marks in effect. However, Bambu is aware of other businesses using similar names, some of which have federally registered trademarks for similar goods and services. This could lead to potential conflicts or limitations on the use of the marks in certain areas. Bambu urges franchisees to research this possibility before signing the Franchise Agreement.
While the Franchise Agreement does not obligate Bambu to protect franchisees against infringement claims, Bambu reserves the right to take necessary actions to protect the marks. Bambu will cover the costs of litigation they decide to pursue or defend on behalf of the franchisee. Franchisees must cooperate in any litigation and immediately report any potential infringement or challenges to the use of the marks. Franchisees cannot settle any claims without Bambu's written consent, and Bambu has the exclusive right to control any litigation or proceedings related to the marks.