In what context can C12 Group branding and marks be used by a franchisee?
C12_Group Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
tlement agreement that would allow for the registration of both marks.
You agree to use our current and future trademarks, service marks, trade names, document templates, logotypes, and domain names only in the ways we have approved in advance in writing as we have set
forth in our training and operating manuals or in other routine communications to C12, such a semiannual workshops and via our www.C12forums.com web-based portal for franchisee materials, resources, and information. C12 branding and marks will only be used in conjunction with the delivery of C12's goods and services and not with unaffiliated business which may be transacted by a C12 franchisee.
There are no currently effective material determinations of the USPTO Trademark Trial and Appeal Board, the trademark administrator of any state, or any court. Except as stated above, there are no pending infringements, oppositions, or cancellations concerning the principal trademarks. We have no knowledge of either superior rights or infringing uses that could materially affect your use of the principal trademarks in the state where your franchise may be located. There are no agreements currently in effect that significantly limit our rights to use or license the use of the principal trademarks in a manner material to the franchise.
Source: Item 13 — TRADEMARKS (FDD pages 32–34)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 C12 Group Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are granted a license to use C12 Group's trademarks, service marks, trade names, logotypes, internet domain names, and other commercial symbols. However, this usage is strictly controlled by C12 Group. Franchisees must adhere to the guidelines and approvals provided in writing through training, operating manuals, semi-annual workshops, and the www.C12forums.com web-based portal.
The FDD specifies that C12 Group's branding and marks are to be used exclusively in conjunction with the delivery of C12 Group's goods and services. This means a franchisee cannot use C12 Group's branding for any other business ventures or activities that are not directly affiliated with the C12 Group franchise. This restriction ensures that the brand's reputation and image are consistently maintained across all franchise operations.
Upon termination of the Franchise Agreement, the franchisee must immediately cease using C12 Group's trade name, trademarks, service marks, symbols, and any proprietary materials related to the brand. This includes returning or destroying any remaining local inventory of these materials. Furthermore, any unauthorized use of C12 Group's proprietary programs, Business Forum formats, and techniques trained through their manuals and protocols will be considered a violation of copyright privileges. This underscores the importance of adhering to the terms of the agreement and protecting C12 Group's intellectual property.