What must a Big O Tires franchisee include in any application for a trade name or assumed name?

According to Big O Tires's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee must include a specific statement in any application for a trade name, assumed name, or fictitious name. This statement must explicitly state that the franchisee's use of Big O Tires's licensed marks is limited by the terms outlined in the Franchise Agreement. Additionally, the franchisee is required to provide Big O Tires with a copy of the application and any other registration documents related to the trade name or assumed name.

This requirement ensures that Big O Tires maintains control over its brand and trademarks, even when franchisees are operating under a different name for local compliance or marketing purposes. By including the statement about the Franchise Agreement's limitations, the public is made aware that the franchisee's rights to use the Big O Tires's trademarks are governed by a specific contract. This protects Big O Tires from potential misuse or unauthorized expansion of the brand by individual franchisees.

For a prospective Big O Tires franchisee, this means being diligent about adhering to these requirements when registering a trade name or assumed name. Failing to include the necessary statement or neglecting to provide copies of the application documents to Big O Tires could result in a breach of the Franchise Agreement. Franchisees should consult with legal counsel to ensure full compliance with these trademark-related obligations, as well as any local or state regulations regarding trade names and assumed names.

This is a fairly standard practice in franchising, as franchisors need to protect their trademarks and ensure consistent branding across all franchise locations. Franchisees benefit from using a well-established brand name like Big O Tires, but they must also respect the franchisor's rights and follow the rules for trademark usage.