Must a Brain Balance franchisee use only standard forms and stationery prescribed by the company?
Brain_Balance Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
10.18. (a) FRANCHISEE's proposed Center location, relocation, center layout, office equipment, all printed matter used in the operation of the Franchised Business, including without limitation, assessment tools, tests, evaluation forms, stationery, signage, application forms, business cards, invoices, statements, and other materials, and the manner in which any and of these will be used are subject to the prior written consent of COMPANY and must comply with the Operations Manual.
(b) All advertising and promotional matter, whether printed or digital material, including without limitation, Internet, and other electronic media advertisements, transcripts of all radio and television advertisements, and the manner in which any of these will be used are subject to the prior written consent of COMPANY prior to use and shall be submitted to COMPANY for written approval prior to use.
If COMPANY does not approve the activities, materials, media, or use in writing within ten (10) days, the activity, material, media, and use will be deemed disapproved.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 70–72)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Brain Balance's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must obtain prior written consent from Brain Balance regarding all printed matter used in the operation of the franchised business. This includes, but is not limited to, assessment tools, tests, evaluation forms, stationery, signage, application forms, business cards, invoices, statements, and other materials. Furthermore, the manner in which these materials are used must comply with the Brain Balance Operations Manual.
This requirement means that a Brain Balance franchisee cannot independently create or use any printed materials without the franchisor's approval. This ensures brand consistency and adherence to Brain Balance's standards across all franchise locations. The franchisee must submit these materials to Brain Balance for written approval before use.
Brain Balance's approval process includes a provision that if the company does not provide written approval or disapproval within ten days, the activity, material, media, and use will be deemed disapproved. This clause sets a timeline for the approval process, but ultimately, Brain Balance retains control over the printed materials used by its franchisees.
This level of control is common in franchising to maintain uniformity and protect the brand's image. Prospective Brain Balance franchisees should carefully review the Operations Manual and understand the specific requirements for printed materials to ensure they can comply with these standards.