Can Better Blend use the internet to make sales within a franchisee's territory?

According to Better Blend's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Better Blend retains the right to use the internet and other channels to make sales within a franchisee's territory. Specifically, there are no restrictions preventing Better Blend from soliciting or accepting orders from consumers within a franchisee's designated area.

Better Blend explicitly reserves the right to use various distribution channels, including the internet, catalog sales, telemarketing, and other direct marketing methods, to generate sales within a franchisee's territory. These sales can be made using Better Blend's principal trademarks or even different trademarks than those used by the franchisee. Importantly, Better Blend is not obligated to provide any compensation to the franchisee for sales solicited or accepted from within their territory through these alternative channels.

This arrangement means that a Better Blend franchisee could face competition from the franchisor's online sales efforts within their own territory, potentially impacting their revenue. While the franchisee is permitted to engage in marketing and advertising, including online marketing, subject to Better Blend's approval, they will not receive any financial benefit from online sales made directly by Better Blend in their territory. This is a fairly common practice in franchising, where franchisors often maintain control over online sales and distribution, but it's crucial for prospective franchisees to understand this dynamic and its potential impact on their business.