What items does Bw Premier Collection claim copyrights in?
Bw_Premier_Collection Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
otel. We claim copyrights in the Distribution Agreement, brand identity standards (which contain our trade secrets), advertising and marketing materials, and similar items used in operating System Hotels. We have not registered these copyrights with the United States Copyright Office; but, we need not do so at this time to protect them. You may use these items only as we specify while operating the Hotel (and must stop using them if we so direct you).
There currently are no effective adverse determinations of the USPTO, the United States Copyright Office, or any court regarding the copyrighted materials.
Source: Item 14 — Patents, Copyrights, and Proprietary Information (FDD pages 39–40)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Bw Premier Collection FDD, the company claims copyrights in several items related to the operation of its hotels. These include the Distribution Agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of the franchise relationship, as well as brand identity standards, which contain trade secrets. Additionally, Bw Premier Collection asserts copyright protection over its advertising and marketing materials, and other similar items used in operating System Hotels.
Bw Premier Collection has not registered these copyrights with the United States Copyright Office, but the company believes that registration is not currently necessary to protect its rights. As a franchisee, you are permitted to use these copyrighted items only as specified by Bw Premier Collection while operating the hotel. This use must cease if Bw Premier Collection directs you to do so.
Bw Premier Collection retains the right to control any legal action related to its copyrights, even if a franchisee brings the matter to their attention. The company is not obligated to participate in a franchisee's defense or provide indemnity for damages or expenses in a proceeding involving a copyright. The FDD also states that the Distribution Agreement and other materials contain confidential information, some of which constitutes trade secrets under applicable law.