Is a Brueggers Bagels franchisee required to participate in joint marketing programs?
Brueggers_Bagels Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We have the right at any time and from time to time to establish, and thereafter modify (1) co-marketing programs in which we, franchisees and licensees join with suppliers or other third parties to cross-promote goods and services; (2) joint marketing efforts in which multiple franchisees and/or licensees contribute to a specific ad or event; and/or (3) local or regional marketing co-operatives ("Marketing Co-ops") that pool funds of franchisees on an ongoing basis to jointly promote the Proprietary Marks and the Bakeries of the Marketing Co-op members.
You must participate in each applicable joint marketing program and comply with the rules of the program.
The following provisions apply to Marketing Co-ops:
- 14.6.1. We have the right to designate any geographic area or set of common characteristics for purposes of establishing a Marketing Co-op.
If a Marketing Co-op is applicable to your Bakery at the time the Bakery opens for business, you must join the Marketing Co-op.
If a Marketing Co-op applicable to the Bakery is established during the Agreement Term, you must become a member and begin contributing no later than thirty (30) days after we approve the Marketing Co-op to begin operation.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 61)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Brueggers Bagels' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to participate in joint marketing programs. Brueggers Bagels has the right to establish and modify co-marketing programs where franchisees join with suppliers or other third parties to cross-promote goods and services, joint marketing efforts where multiple franchisees contribute to a specific ad or event, and local or regional marketing co-operatives that pool funds to jointly promote the brand and bakeries.
The FDD states that franchisees must participate in each applicable joint marketing program and comply with the rules of that program. If a Marketing Co-op is applicable to a franchisee's bakery when it opens, the franchisee must join. If a Marketing Co-op is established during the term of the Franchise Agreement, the franchisee must become a member and begin contributing no later than 30 days after Brueggers Bagels approves the Marketing Co-op to begin operation.
This mandatory participation ensures consistent marketing efforts and brand promotion across all Brueggers Bagels locations. It also allows Brueggers Bagels to coordinate marketing strategies and leverage the collective resources of its franchisees. Prospective franchisees should factor in the costs and obligations associated with these joint marketing programs and Marketing Co-ops when evaluating the overall investment and operational requirements of a Brueggers Bagels franchise.