If Better Blend registers a domain name for a franchisee, who is responsible for the maintenance costs?
Better_Blend Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- (iii) immediately take all action required (a) to cancel all assumed name or equivalent registrations relating to Franchisee's use of the Marks; and (b) to cancel or transfer to BBF or its designee all telephone numbers, post office boxes, directory listings, and Digital Marketing accounts used by Franchisee in connection with the Business or the Marks, including, without limitation, by providing login and password details
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 43)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
The 2024 Better Blend Franchise Disclosure Document does not explicitly state who is responsible for the maintenance costs of a domain name registered for a franchisee. However, the document does state that upon termination or expiration of the franchise agreement, the franchisee must transfer to Better Blend all digital marketing accounts used in connection with the business, including providing login and password details. This implies that Better Blend has the right to control internet marketing accounts related to the Better Blend brand.
Additionally, the FDD states that the franchisee is generally responsible for paying vendors and suppliers in a timely manner, as well as all taxes when due. The franchisee is also responsible for complying with their lease and making all rent payments when due, if they lease the location. These clauses suggest that the franchisee is generally responsible for the ongoing expenses related to operating the Better Blend business.
Because the FDD does not specifically address domain name maintenance costs, prospective franchisees should seek clarification from Better Blend regarding responsibility for these costs. Understanding this allocation of expenses is crucial for accurate financial planning.