Has The N2 Company filed the required affidavit and renewed the N2 PUBLISHING trademark for Belocal?
Belocal Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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Our affiliate, The N2 Company, has several Marks which are used with BELOCAL publications or Test Publications. Our affiliate has obtained registrations with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office ("USPTO") for some of these Marks and has applied for registration for others. The N2 Company intends to renew the registrations and file all appropriate affidavits for these Marks at the appropriate times, as required by law. The N2 Company has filed the required affidavit and renewed the N2 PUBLISHING trademark below.
Source: Item 13 — TRADEMARKS (FDD pages 44–46)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Belocal's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, The N2 Company, an affiliate, owns several trademarks used for Belocal publications. The N2 Company states its intention to renew registrations and file necessary affidavits for these marks as legally required. Specifically, the document confirms that The N2 Company has already filed the required affidavit and renewed the N2 PUBLISHING trademark. The N2 PUBLISHING trademark, which is a design mark, was initially registered on February 7, 2012, under registration number 4095430.
For a prospective Belocal franchisee, this indicates that the franchisor is actively managing and maintaining its trademarks, which is crucial for brand consistency and protection. The renewal of the N2 PUBLISHING trademark suggests a proactive approach to safeguarding intellectual property rights. This is a positive sign, as it reduces the risk of legal challenges related to trademark infringement or expiration that could disrupt the franchisee's business operations.
However, Belocal franchisees should be aware that they are obligated to immediately notify Belocal of any trademark infringements or challenges to the use of the marks. Franchisees also cannot communicate with anyone other than Belocal, its affiliates, or their counsel regarding any infringement, challenge, or claim. Belocal has the sole discretion to take action on any infringement, challenge, or claim concerning the marks. Franchisees must also execute any documents and provide assistance to protect Belocal's interests in any litigation or proceeding.