As a Boulder Designs franchisee, what must I do if directed to stop using copyrighted items?
Boulder_Designs Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
While We claim copyrights in these and similar items. You must use these items only as We specify while operating the Franchised Business and you must stop using these items if we direct you to do so. You may not duplicate or disclose any portion of the Manual in an unauthorized manner. Further, all information is proprietary and the Franchise Agreement require you to keep such information confidential.
Source: Item 14 — PATENTS, COPYRIGHTS AND PROPRIETARY INFORMATION (FDD pages 36–37)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Boulder Designs's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, as a franchisee, you are required to cease using any copyrighted items that are part of the Boulder Designs system if the franchisor directs you to do so. These items include the Manual, the Boulder Designs website, and other copyrightable materials. You are only allowed to use these items as specified by Boulder Designs while operating your franchised business.
This requirement is part of a broader set of rules regarding intellectual property. The FDD emphasizes that franchisees cannot duplicate or disclose any portion of the Manual without authorization. All information related to Boulder Designs's operations is considered proprietary and must be kept confidential, as outlined in the Franchise Agreement.
Boulder Designs also maintains control over its social media presence, prohibiting franchisees from establishing or using social media sites for business purposes. This extends to using any copyrighted materials or confidential information on social media, even from personal accounts. Any unauthorized representations about profits or earnings on social media can result in the franchisee being responsible for legal costs and penalties.
These stipulations are typical in franchising, as franchisors like Boulder Designs need to protect their brand identity and proprietary information. Franchisees should be aware of these restrictions and adhere to them to avoid potential breaches of the Franchise Agreement.