What is the definition of 'Confidential Information' in the Belocal franchise agreement?
Belocal Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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- (A) The term "Confidential Information" means information and know-how, oral, visual, or written, and documents relating to Franchisor, its affiliates, the Franchised Business, and any publication Furnished by Franchisor or its affiliates, or representatives of Franchisor, to Covenantor. Franchisor's Confidential Information includes, without limitation, all trademarks, trade names, service marks, emblems, and indicia of origin used by Franchisor in connection with the operation of the Franchised Business, and all trade secrets or know-how, including, but not limited to, research, plans, products, services, customer lists, supplier information, advertisers, business plans, marketing data and materials, software, electronic code, forms, processes, methods of operation, strategic information, financial information, manuals, and other business information disclosed to Covenantor by Franchisor or its representatives.
- (B) The term "Competitive Services" means the severable business lines or services which the Franchisee's Franchised Business of which Covenantor is a part provided (i) for covenants
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 71)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Belocal's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, 'Confidential Information' encompasses a broad range of data and knowledge pertaining to Belocal, its affiliates, and the franchised business. This includes both tangible and intangible forms of information, such as oral, visual, and written materials, as well as documents provided to the franchisee (referred to as 'Covenantor').
Specifically, Belocal's confidential information includes, but is not limited to, trademarks, trade names, service marks, emblems, and indicia of origin used in the operation of the franchised business. It also covers trade secrets and know-how, including research, plans, products, services, customer lists, supplier information, advertisers, business plans, marketing data and materials, software, electronic code, forms, processes, methods of operation, strategic information, financial information, manuals, and other business information disclosed to the franchisee or their representatives.
Furthermore, the definition extends to any data stored on or within the information technology systems of Belocal or its affiliates. This comprehensive definition underscores the importance Belocal places on protecting its proprietary information and maintaining a competitive advantage within the industry. Franchisees are obligated to safeguard this information and use it solely for the operation of their franchised business, as outlined in the franchise agreement.