Does Carls Jr. reserve the right to change or improve the System?
Carls_Jr Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
As a result of the expenditure of time, skill, effort and money, CJR and its predecessor have developed, and CJR owns, a unique and distinctive system ("System") relating to the development, establishment and operation of quick service restaurants ("Carl's Jr.
Restaurants").
- B.
The distinguishing characteristics of the System include, without limitation, uniform and distinctive exterior and interior design, layout and trade dress, including specially designed decor and furnishings; an efficient kitchen and equipment layout featuring an automatic charbroiling cooking process; special recipes and menu items; procedures and techniques for food and beverage storage, preparation, service and sanitation; technical assistance and training through course instruction and manuals; and advertising and promotional programs.
The System and its components may be changed, improved, and further developed by CJR from time to time.
- C.
CJR identifies the System by means of certain trade names, trademarks, service marks, trade dress, logos, insignias, slogans, emblems, symbols, designs and any combination thereof or any other indicia of source (collectively "Proprietary Marks") which CJR has designated or may in the future designate for use with the System.
The Proprietary Marks used to identify the System, including the principal Proprietary Marks, may be modified by CJR and/or its affiliates from time to time.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 75–76)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Carls Jr. Franchise Disclosure Document, Carls Jr. has the right to change, improve, and further develop its System from time to time. The Carls Jr. System pertains to the development, establishment, and operation of quick-service restaurants.
The distinguishing characteristics of the Carls Jr. System include elements such as uniform exterior and interior design, efficient kitchen layouts, special recipes, and techniques for food preparation, technical assistance, training, and advertising programs. These elements are subject to change and further development by Carls Jr.
Carls Jr. also retains the right to modify the Proprietary Marks used to identify the System. These marks include trade names, trademarks, service marks, trade dress, logos, insignias, slogans, emblems, symbols, and designs. This allows Carls Jr. to adapt its branding and operational methods as needed, which may require franchisees to adapt to these changes.