Does CB Franchising have to approve websites for Chocolate Bash franchises?
Chocolate_Bash Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- (e) Internet. CB Franchising shall maintain a website for Chocolate Bash, which will include Franchisee's location (or territory) and telephone number.
ARTICLE 12. MARKS
12.1 Authorized Marks. Franchisee shall use no trademarks, service marks or logos in connection with the Business other than the Marks. Franchisee shall use all Marks specified by CB Franchising, and only in the manner as CB Franchising may require.
7.17 Public Relations. Franchisee shall not make any public statements (including giving interviews or issuing press releases) regarding Chocolate Bash, the Business, or any particular incident or occurrence related to the Business, without CB Franchising's prior written approval, which will not be unreasonably withheld.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 38–39)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Chocolate Bash's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, while it does state that CB Franchising maintains a website for Chocolate Bash that includes the franchisee's location and telephone number, it does not explicitly state whether CB Franchising must approve websites developed by franchisees.
However, the FDD does state that franchisees must use only the trademarks, service marks, and logos specified by Chocolate Bash and only in the manner that Chocolate Bash requires. Additionally, franchisees cannot make any public statements regarding Chocolate Bash without prior written approval from CB Franchising.
Because the Franchise Agreement does not specifically address website approval, it is important for a prospective franchisee to clarify with Chocolate Bash the extent of control they have over their website and online presence. This includes understanding whether franchisees are allowed to create their own websites, and if so, what the approval process entails to ensure compliance with brand standards and marketing guidelines.