If C12 Group discontinues the use of an item covered by a patent, what must the franchisee do?
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 discontinue the use of an item or process covered by a patent or copyright, the franchisee must also discontinue its use. This requirement ensures uniformity and compliance across all C12 Group franchises.
This means that as a C12 Group franchisee, you are obligated to stay aligned with the franchisor's decisions regarding patented or copyrighted materials. If C12 Group determines that a particular item or process should no longer be used, you must cease using it in your franchise operations. This could involve updating training materials, changing operational procedures, or adopting new technologies as directed by C12 Group.
While C12 Group is not obligated to defend the franchisee's use of these items or processes, they will pursue a resolution that they deem to be in the best interest of the C12 community. This indicates that C12 Group will take steps to address any potential infringement issues, but the ultimate responsibility for compliance rests with the franchisee.