What is the current brand fund fee that a Bigfoot Forestry franchisee must pay?
Bigfoot_Forestry Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must pay the brand fund fee we specify from time to time (currently 1% of Gross Sales; not to exceed 3% of Gross Sales). Company-owned Bigfoot Forestry Businesses contribute to the Brand Fund on the same basis as franchisees. However, if we modify the amount or timing of required contributions, any company-owned Bigfoot Forestry Business established or acquired after the modification may contribute to the Brand Fund utilizing the modified amount or timing. Except as stated in this paragraph, we have no obligation to expend our own funds or resources for any marketing activities in your area.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 22–29)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Bigfoot Forestry Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to contribute to the Brand Fund. The current brand fund fee is 1% of Gross Sales, but it can increase up to a maximum of 3% of Gross Sales. Company-owned Bigfoot Forestry businesses also contribute to the Brand Fund on the same basis as franchisees.
The Brand Fund is used to promote public awareness of the Bigfoot Forestry brand and improve the overall system. The franchisor has complete control over how the Brand Fund is used, including advertising programs, creative content, and media placement. These funds can cover a wide array of expenses, such as marketing materials, promotions, public relations, brand development, sponsorships, research and development, website development, quality control programs, market research, franchisee conferences, and improvements to the system.
Prospective franchisees should note that the franchisor has the discretion to modify the amount or timing of required contributions for company-owned businesses established or acquired after such modifications. Franchisees should also be aware that the Brand Fund is not a trust, and the franchisor has no fiduciary obligations regarding its administration. The franchisor can discontinue the Brand Fund with 30 days' notice. An unaudited financial accounting of Brand Fund contributions and expenditures will be prepared annually and made available to franchisees upon request.