If a Bumble Roofing franchisee develops improvements to the system, is the franchisee required to disclose these improvements to the franchisor?
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 Information and Trade Secrets and are designated by and identified with the Marks described in this Agreement.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 53)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
Based on the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Bumble Roofing franchise agreement emphasizes the franchisor's ownership and control over the Bumble Roofing System, including its trademarks, operating procedures, and methods. The agreement states that the franchisor may change, improve, and further develop all distinguishing characteristics of the system from time to time, designating these as the franchisor's Confidential Information and Trade Secrets.
While the FDD excerpts provided do not explicitly state whether a franchisee is required to disclose improvements they develop to the Bumble Roofing system, the overall context suggests that franchisees are expected to adhere to the franchisor's established methods and standards. The agreement highlights the importance of uniformity and the franchisor's right to modify the system. Franchisees must operate their Bumble Roofing business in conformity with the System.
Given the franchisor's emphasis on maintaining a uniform system and controlling its evolution, it is highly probable that franchisees would be required to disclose any improvements they develop. A prospective franchisee should clarify this point with the franchisor to understand the specific obligations and procedures for submitting or sharing any innovations or improvements to the Bumble Roofing system.