What intellectual property does the Bft 'System' include?
Bft Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisor owns, administers and grants franchises for a system of fitness studios that (a) offer and sell specialized instruction and related services ("Approved Services") and merchandise and other products ("Approved Products"), (b) are currently identified by the trademark "BFT" and related designs and use other related trademarks and service marks designated from time to time by Franchisor (the "Marks"), (c) reflect distinctive interior design and display procedures, and color scheme and décor (the "Trade Dress"), and (d) operate using a designated "System" which includes the Marks, Trade Dress and certain of Franchisor's other intellectual property including trade secrets, copyrights, confidential and proprietary information, and designated training and exercise methods and know-how, fitness equipment, furniture and fixtures, marketing, advertising and sales promotions, cost controls, accounting and reporting procedures, and personnel management systems (each, a "BFT Studio" and collectively, the "BFT Studios").
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 79–265)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bft's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Bft 'System' encompasses a range of intellectual property assets. These include the Bft trademarks and related designs, the distinctive interior design and display procedures known as the Trade Dress, and other intellectual property. This includes trade secrets, copyrights, confidential and proprietary information, and designated training and exercise methods and know-how.
Furthermore, the Bft System incorporates specific fitness equipment, furniture and fixtures, marketing, advertising and sales promotions, cost controls, accounting and reporting procedures, and personnel management systems. These elements collectively define the standardized approach that Bft franchisees must adhere to in operating their studios. The Learning Management System is also included and remains the sole property of Bft.
For a prospective franchisee, understanding the scope of the 'System' is crucial because it outlines the core components that contribute to the brand's identity and operational standards. Franchisees are expected to strictly comply with the System Standards to maintain uniformity and protect the brand's reputation. This compliance extends to using only approved suppliers and adhering to the franchisor's guidelines for studio appearance and operation. Upon termination of the franchise agreement, the franchisee must cease using all elements of the System, highlighting the importance of these assets to the Bft brand.