What happens if C12 Group decides to add an item covered by a patent or copyright?
C12_Group Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You agree not to contest C12's interest in its proprietary information. Although C12 is not obligated to defend your use of these items or processes, C12 will pursue resolution which in its judgment is in the best overall interest of the C12 community. If C12 decides to add, modify or discontinue the use of an item or process covered by a patent or copyright, you must also do so.
Source: Item 14 — PATENTS, COPYRIGHTS, AND PROPRIETARY INFORMATION (FDD pages 34–35)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 C12 Group Franchise Disclosure Document, if C12 Group decides to add, modify, or discontinue the use of an item or process covered by a patent or copyright, franchisees must also adhere to that change. This means that as a franchisee, you are obligated to implement any new patented or copyrighted items or processes that C12 Group introduces, and cease using any that they discontinue.
This requirement ensures uniformity and consistency across all C12 Group franchises, maintaining brand standards and protecting the company's intellectual property. It also means that franchisees must stay updated with any changes C12 Group makes to its systems and be prepared to adapt their business practices accordingly.
While C12 Group is not obligated to defend a franchisee's use of these items or processes, they will pursue a resolution that, in their judgment, is in the best overall interest of the C12 community. This indicates that C12 Group will take action to protect its intellectual property and the interests of its franchisees, but the specific course of action will be determined by C12 Group on a case-by-case basis.