Is a Caring Senior Service franchisee allowed to use the Proprietary Marks on the Internet?
Caring_Senior_Service Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must conspicuously post a sign and include on all written materials, including advertisements, stationery, business cards, etc., the following: "Independently owned and operated." You may not use the Proprietary Marks or any part or derivative of the Proprietary Marks on the Internet, except as expressly permitted in writing. This prohibition includes use of the Proprietary Marks or any derivative of the Proprietary Marks as part of any URL or domain name, as well as their registration as part of any user name on any gaming website or social networking website, or as part of any unauthorized email address.
We reserve the right to substitute different trademarks for use in identifying the System and the businesses operating under it, at our sole discretion. You must comply with any changes in or substitutions of the Proprietary Marks at your own expense.
Source: Item 13 — TRADEMARKS (FDD pages 35–36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Caring Senior Service's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee's use of the Proprietary Marks on the internet is restricted. The FDD states that franchisees may not use the Proprietary Marks or any derivative of them on the internet without express written permission from Caring Senior Service. This restriction extends to using the marks in URLs, domain names, usernames on gaming or social networking websites, and unauthorized email addresses.
This policy has significant implications for franchisees' online marketing and branding efforts. Without written permission, franchisees cannot incorporate the Caring Senior Service name or trademarks into their website addresses or online profiles. This could limit their ability to attract online customers and build a strong online presence using the brand name.
Caring Senior Service reserves the right to substitute different trademarks for use in identifying the System and the businesses operating under it, at its sole discretion. Franchisees must comply with any changes in or substitutions of the Proprietary Marks at their own expense. Prospective franchisees should discuss with Caring Senior Service what options are available for online branding and under what circumstances they might receive written permission to use the Proprietary Marks online. Understanding these restrictions and opportunities is crucial for developing an effective digital marketing strategy.