If Belocal modifies or discontinues use of any of the Copyrighted Materials, what is the franchisee required to do?
Belocal Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We and our affiliates may, in our sole discretion, modify or discontinue use of the Copyrighted Materials or other confidential information and/or use other information and/or rights in their place. If we decide to modify or discontinue use of any of the Copyrighted Materials or other confidential information for any reason, you must do the same, at your expense.
Source: Item 14 — PATENTS, COPYRIGHTS, AND PROPRIETARY INFORMATION (FDD pages 46–47)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Belocal's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Belocal may modify or discontinue the use of Copyrighted Materials at their discretion. If Belocal decides to modify or discontinue the use of any Copyrighted Materials, the franchisee must comply with the changes, and they must do so at their own expense. Copyrighted Materials include items such as the Franchise Brand Standards Manual, design elements of the Marks, training, advertising and promotional materials, and the content and design of any Online Presence.
This requirement means that a Belocal franchisee must be prepared to adapt their business practices and marketing materials to align with any changes Belocal makes to its Copyrighted Materials. This could involve updating signage, retraining staff, or reprinting marketing collateral. The franchisee bears the financial responsibility for these changes, which could impact their operating costs.
In the event of any copyright infringement or challenges to the use of Copyrighted Materials, the franchisee must immediately notify Belocal. The franchisee is not allowed to communicate with any party other than Belocal, its affiliates, or their counsel regarding such matters. Belocal has the sole discretion to take any action it deems appropriate and has the right to exclusively control any litigation arising from alleged infringement or claims concerning the Copyrighted Materials. The franchisee is required to assist Belocal by executing documents and providing any necessary assistance to protect Belocal's interests in such legal proceedings.