After termination or expiration of the C12 Group franchise, for how long does the non-competition covenant apply?
C12_Group Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
-
- Post-Termination Non-Competition. For two (2) years after the termination of this Agreement for any reason, Franchisee shall not directly or indirectly own an interest in or otherwise be employed by or engaged with a Competitive Business within the Territory, within ten (10) miles of the Territory, within the territory of any other C12 franchise, or within ten (10) miles of the territory of any other C12 franchise. For purposes of this Section, a "Competitive Business" is any business that offers peer mentorship and coaching to Christian business leaders. The post-termination non-competition obligations under this Section shall not apply if Franchisee pays Franchisor the Exit Fee described above.
Source: Item 17 — RENEWAL, TERMINATION, TRANSFER, AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION (FDD pages 36–40)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 C12 Group Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee is subject to a post-termination non-competition covenant for two years after the franchise agreement ends, regardless of the reason for termination. This restriction prevents the franchisee from owning, being employed by, or being involved with a business that competes with C12 Group.
The non-compete area includes the franchisee's territory, areas within ten miles of that territory, the territory of any other C12 Group franchise, and areas within ten miles of any other C12 Group franchise. A "Competitive Business" is defined as one that offers peer mentorship and coaching to Christian business leaders.
However, the post-termination non-competition obligations do not apply if the franchisee pays C12 Group the Exit Fee. This provides an option for franchisees who wish to immediately engage in a competitive business after leaving the C12 Group system. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider the implications of this non-compete agreement and the potential costs associated with the Exit Fee if they plan to operate a similar business after their C12 Group franchise.