What liability does a Bft franchisee have for unlawful use of the branded email address?
Bft Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 6.9 Branded Emails. Franchisor reserves the right to require Franchisee to use an email address associated with Franchisor's registered domain name in connection with the operation of the Studio. If Franchisor requires Franchisee to obtain and use such an email address, Franchisee must do so according to System Standards. Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that Franchisor will have unrestricted access to all such email accounts and all document, data, materials, and messages shared from or by such accounts. Franchisor may deactivate any such account or limit Franchisee's or its users' access to it at any time. Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that it will use such email address only in connection with the operation of the Studio and in compliance with all Applicable Laws. Franchisee agrees to indemnify Franchisor and its affiliates for claims arising from Franchisee's unlawful use of such email address
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 79–265)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Bft Franchise Disclosure Document, Bft franchisees are required to use an email address associated with Bft's registered domain name when operating their studio, if Bft requires it. Franchisees must adhere to System Standards when using this email address. Bft retains unrestricted access to these email accounts, including all documents, data, materials, and messages, and can deactivate the account or limit access at any time.
The FDD specifies that franchisees must use the branded email address only in connection with the operation of their Bft studio and in compliance with all Applicable Laws. This means franchisees must ensure their use of the email complies with privacy laws, anti-spam laws, and any other relevant regulations.
Most importantly, the franchisee agrees to indemnify Bft and its affiliates for any claims arising from the franchisee's unlawful use of the branded email address. This means that if a franchisee violates any laws or regulations while using the Bft email, they are responsible for covering any resulting costs, damages, or legal fees incurred by Bft or its affiliates. This indemnification clause places a significant responsibility on the franchisee to ensure lawful and ethical use of the branded email.