Is Buona required to use endorsements in its marketing programs?

According to Buona's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Buona is not required to use endorsements in its marketing programs. The FDD states that Buona will direct all advertising, marketing, and promotional programs financed by the Marketing Fund, with sole discretion over the creative concepts, materials, and endorsements used in them. This means that Buona has the option to use endorsements, but it is not obligated to do so.

As a franchisee, this means that you will not have any control over whether or not Buona uses endorsements in its marketing programs. However, you will be required to contribute to the Marketing Fund, which is used to finance these programs. It is important to note that Buona has sole discretion over how the Marketing Fund is used, so there is no guarantee that the funds will be used in a way that directly benefits your specific franchise location.

This type of arrangement is common in franchising, as it allows the franchisor to maintain control over the brand's image and marketing efforts. However, it is important for prospective franchisees to understand the terms of the Marketing Fund and the franchisor's discretion in using it. Franchisees should inquire about the franchisor's marketing strategy and how the Marketing Fund has been used in the past to assess whether the franchisor's approach aligns with their expectations.