Is a Buona franchisee obligated to use the Buona trademarks under the Franchise Agreement?

According to Buona's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees have both the right and the obligation to use Buona's trademarks. Buona grants franchisees the non-exclusive right and obligation to use the Marks under the Franchise Agreement. Franchisees may also use other current or future trademarks to operate their Buona Business as designated by Buona from time to time. This means that as a Buona franchisee, you are not only permitted but required to use the brand's trademarks in the operation of your business. This is a standard practice in franchising, as it ensures brand consistency and recognition across all franchise locations.

Buona also outlines specific rules and guidelines for using their trademarks. Franchisees cannot use the Buona name or trademarks as part of a corporate name or with modifying words, designs, or symbols without prior written consent from Buona. Franchisees must also indicate in any contract, advertisement, and with a conspicuous sign in their Buona Business that they are an independently owned and operated licensed franchisee of Buona. These regulations are typical in franchise agreements to protect the brand's image and reputation.

Furthermore, Buona retains control over the use of its trademarks on websites, social media, digital marketing, and mobile applications. If Buona deems it necessary to modify or discontinue any trademark, franchisees must comply with their directions within a reasonable time. However, Buona will not reimburse franchisees for any direct expenses of changing signage, loss of revenue, or other indirect expenses due to any modified or discontinued Mark, or for expenses of promoting a modified or substituted trademark or service mark. This is a potential risk for franchisees, as they may incur costs due to changes in branding mandated by Buona.