On what materials must a Bigfoot Forestry franchisee include a written indication of independent ownership?
Bigfoot_Forestry Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
24.2. Relationship of Parties. Nothing in this Agreement creates a fiduciary relationship between the parties or is intended to make either party an agent, legal representative, partner or employee of the other party. Throughout the Term you must, in all dealings with third parties, conspicuously identify yourself as a franchisee and the independent owner of your Bigfoot Forestry Business. We may require that you display a written notice of independent ownership in the form we prescribe. You must also include a written indication of independent ownership on all agreements, forms, letterhead, advertising materials, business cards and other materials that we specify. Neither party may: (a)
make any express or implied agreement, warranty or representation, or incur any debt, in the name of or on behalf of the other; or (b) represent that our relationship is other than franchisor and franchisee.
Neither party is obligated by any agreement or representation made by the other party unless expressly authorized by this Agreement.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 42–162)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bigfoot Forestry's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee must conspicuously identify themselves as a franchisee and the independent owner of their Bigfoot Forestry Business in all dealings with third parties throughout the term of the agreement. Bigfoot Forestry may also require the franchisee to display a written notice of independent ownership in a form that they prescribe. Furthermore, the franchisee must include a written indication of independent ownership on all agreements, forms, letterhead, advertising materials, business cards, and other materials that Bigfoot Forestry specifies.
This requirement ensures that customers and other parties are aware that the Bigfoot Forestry business is independently owned and operated under a franchise agreement, and not a direct extension of the Bigfoot Forestry corporation itself. This distinction is important for managing liability and setting customer expectations.
For a prospective franchisee, this means being prepared to incorporate specific language or logos on a variety of business materials to clearly communicate independent ownership. The franchisee should clarify with Bigfoot Forestry the exact form and content of the required notice to ensure compliance and maintain a consistent brand image.