If Buona modifies or discontinues a trademark, will Buona reimburse the franchisee for signage changes?
Buona Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
If it becomes necessary or advisable at any time, in our sole discretion, for us and/or you to modify or discontinue using any Mark and/or use one or more additional or substitute trademarks or service marks, you must comply with our directions within a reasonable time after receiving notice. We will not reimburse you for your direct expenses of changing signage, for any loss of revenue or other indirect expenses due to any modified or discontinued Mark, or for your expenses of promoting a modified or substituted trademark or service mark.
Source: Item 13 — TRADEMARKS (FDD pages 48–50)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Buona's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Buona will not reimburse franchisees if it becomes necessary to modify or discontinue a trademark. The FDD states that if Buona directs franchisees to modify or discontinue using any mark, franchisees must comply within a reasonable time after receiving notice.
Buona explicitly states that it will not cover any direct expenses for changing signage, loss of revenue, or other indirect expenses resulting from the change. Additionally, Buona will not cover expenses for promoting a modified or substituted trademark or service mark.
This policy places the financial burden of trademark changes entirely on the franchisee. It is important for prospective franchisees to consider this potential cost when evaluating the Buona franchise opportunity, as rebranding and signage updates can be significant expenses.