What documents must a Christies International Real Estate franchisee comply with regarding the use of Marks?
Christies_International_Real_Estate Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The Operations Manual will also include mandatory brand guidelines regarding the proper use of the Marks (our "Brand Guidelines").
You agree to the following additional obligations, pursuant to our obligations under the Trademark License Agreement:
(a) You shall not represent that you own any of the Marks.
(b) You shall not use any Marks that consist of or incorporate "CHRISTIE'S" in any manner other than in the phrase "CHRISTIE'S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE."
(c) You shall not use the font of the "CHRISTIE'S" Marks for any words other than "CHRISTIE'S."
Your Trade Name must be displayed in accordance with our Operations Manual and the Brand Guidelines.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 54–177)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Christies International Real Estate's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must adhere to several guidelines and documents regarding the use of the brand's Marks. The most important of these is the Operations Manual, which contains mandatory brand guidelines for the proper use of the Marks. These guidelines are subject to change at any time. Franchisees must also operate under the trade name or DBA "CHRISTIE'S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE" with an approved suffix or prefix that uniquely identifies their office. This trade name must be displayed according to the Operations Manual and Brand Guidelines. Franchisees must obtain written consent before changing their Trade Name.
In addition to the Operations Manual and trade name requirements, Christies International Real Estate franchisees must also adhere to specific rules outlined in the franchise agreement. Franchisees cannot represent that they own any of the Marks and must only use "CHRISTIE'S" in the phrase "CHRISTIE'S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE." The specific font of the "CHRISTIE'S" Marks can only be used for the word "CHRISTIE'S." Franchisees must also use the Marks in combination with other marks as set forth in Section 7 of Exhibit 1 of the Agreement, which may be modified in writing.
These regulations ensure brand consistency and protect the intellectual property of Christies International Real Estate. By mandating specific usage of the Marks and requiring adherence to the Operations Manual and Brand Guidelines, Christies International Real Estate maintains control over its brand identity. This is a common practice in franchising, as consistent branding helps to build customer recognition and trust. Prospective franchisees should carefully review the Operations Manual and the franchise agreement to fully understand their obligations regarding the use of the Marks. Failing to comply with these requirements could result in penalties or termination of the franchise agreement.