Is a Bojangles franchisee allowed to copy or reproduce the Manual, in whole or in part?
Bojangles Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- B. Franchisee shall at all times treat the Manual, any other manuals created for or approved for use in the operation of the Franchised Business, and the information contained therein, as confidential, and shall use all reasonable efforts to maintain such information as secret and confidential. Franchisee shall not at any time copy, duplicate, record, or otherwise reproduce the foregoing materials, in whole or in part, nor otherwise make the same available to any unauthorized person.
- C. The Manual shall at all times remain the sole property of Franchisor.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 82)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bojangles's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are explicitly prohibited from copying or reproducing the Manual. The Manual contains critical information for operating a Bojangles franchise, and Bojangles retains sole ownership of it. Franchisees receive a copy of the Manual on loan, either electronically or in writing, for the duration of their Franchise Agreement.
Bojangles requires franchisees to treat the Manual and its contents as confidential, using reasonable efforts to maintain its secrecy. This includes any other manuals approved for use in the franchise operation. The prohibition against copying extends to any form of duplication, recording, or reproduction, whether in whole or in part. Franchisees are also barred from making the Manual available to any unauthorized individuals.
Bojangles retains the right to revise the Manual periodically, and franchisees must comply with any new or changed standards. Franchisees are expected to stay current with the Manual by continuously reviewing updates posted on the Bojangles electronic portal. In case of any discrepancies, the master copy maintained by Bojangles's home office will be the controlling version.
This policy is typical in franchising, as franchisors need to protect their proprietary information and operational methods. Strict control over the Manual ensures consistency across all franchise locations and safeguards the brand's standards and reputation. Franchisees should be aware that failure to comply with these confidentiality requirements could result in legal repercussions.