What symbols must a Bumper Man franchisee use with the designated marks?
Bumper_Man Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You may use only the Marks that we designate, must use them only in the manner that we authorize and permit, and must use them with the symbols, "®", "™", or "SM", as appropriate. You may use the Marks only in connection with the operation and promotion of your Bumper Business, and only in the manner we prescribe. You may not use any of the Marks as part of your corporate or other name. You must also follow our instructions for identifying yourself as a franchisee and for filing and maintaining the requisite trade name or fictitious name registrations. You must sign any documents we or our counsel determine are necessary to obtain protection for the Marks or to maintain their continued validity and enforceability. Neither you nor your principals may take any action that would
prejudice or interfere with the validity of our rights with respect to the Marks and may not contest the validity of our interest in the Marks or assist others to do so.
Source: Item 13 — TRADEMARKS (FDD pages 29–31)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bumper Man's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must use the symbols "®", "™", or "SM" as appropriate with the designated marks. The FDD specifies that franchisees may only use the marks that Bumper Man designates, and only in the manner that Bumper Man authorizes and permits. Franchisees are also restricted from using any of the marks as part of their corporate or other name.
This requirement ensures that Bumper Man maintains control over its brand identity and protects its trademarks. By mandating the use of specific symbols, Bumper Man aims to clearly indicate the trademark status of its marks, which helps prevent consumer confusion and potential infringement by third parties. Franchisees must adhere to these guidelines to remain in compliance with the franchise agreement.
Furthermore, the FDD emphasizes that franchisees must follow Bumper Man's instructions for identifying themselves as franchisees and for filing and maintaining the necessary trade name or fictitious name registrations. They must also sign any documents deemed necessary by Bumper Man or its counsel to protect the marks. This underscores the importance of franchisees actively participating in the protection of Bumper Man's intellectual property. Failure to comply with these requirements could lead to legal repercussions and damage the Bumper Man brand.