Does a Bumble Roofing franchisee need approval before disclosing improvements to the system to others?
Bumble_Roofing Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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RECITALS
WHEREAS, Franchisor and its affiliates have developed a comprehensive system for the operation of a business which offers and sells roofing installation and repairs, and related products and services, for residential and commercial customers.
WHEREAS, Roofing Businesses are operated under a unique business system, including valuable know-how, information, Trade Secrets, Confidential Information, methods, Manual, standards, designs, methods of trademark usage, copyrights, sources and specifications, confidential electronic and other communications, methods of Internet usage, marketing programs, and research and development (the "System").
WHEREAS, the distinguishing characteristics of the System include the trademark "BUMBLE ROOFING" and other trademarks and trade names, confidential operating procedures, confidential Manual, standards and specifications for equipment, services and products, method of Internet usage, methods of service, management and marketing programs and sales techniques and strategies. All of these distinguishing characteristics may be changed, improved, and further developed by Franchisor from time to time. They are Franchisor's Confidential In
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 53)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
Based on the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Bumble Roofing franchisees must understand that the franchise operates under a unique business system. This system includes valuable know-how, information, trade secrets, confidential information, methods, manuals, standards, designs, methods of trademark usage, copyrights, sources and specifications, confidential electronic and other communications, methods of Internet usage, marketing programs, and research and development. These elements collectively form the "System," which Bumble Roofing emphasizes as proprietary and crucial to maintaining uniformity and quality across all franchises.
The FDD highlights that the distinguishing characteristics of the System, such as the Bumble Roofing trademark, confidential operating procedures, and standards for equipment and services, can be changed, improved, and further developed by the franchisor. These characteristics are considered Bumble Roofing's confidential information and trade secrets.
While the excerpts provided do not explicitly state whether a franchisee needs approval before disclosing improvements to the system to others, it is implied that any improvements or modifications to the system developed by a franchisee could potentially be considered part of the franchisor's confidential information and trade secrets. Therefore, a franchisee should clarify with Bumble Roofing the protocol for suggesting or implementing improvements to the system and whether those improvements can be shared with others without prior approval, to ensure compliance with the franchise agreement and protect the franchisor's intellectual property.