Following termination of the Cicis franchise agreement, what page outlines the requirement to avoid future identification with Cicis?
Cicis Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
If you continue to operate or subsequently begin to operate any other business, then you must not use any reproduction, counterfeit, copy, or colorable imitation of the Marks, either in connection with such other business or the promotion thereof, which is likely to cause confusion, mistake, or deception, or which is likely to dilute our or our affiliates' rights in and to the Marks, and you must not utilize any designation of origin, description, or representation which falsely suggests or represents an association or connection with us constituting unfair competition.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 64–65)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Cicis Franchise Disclosure Document, the requirement to avoid future identification with Cicis after the termination of the franchise agreement is outlined on page 109. Specifically, Section 16.D states that if a franchisee continues to operate or begins to operate another business after the franchise agreement is terminated, they cannot use any reproduction, counterfeit, copy, or imitation of Cicis's marks. This includes anything that could cause confusion, mistake, or deception, or dilute Cicis's rights to its marks.
This provision ensures that former franchisees do not unfairly compete with Cicis by leveraging the brand's reputation or creating confusion in the marketplace. It protects Cicis's brand identity and prevents consumers from being misled into thinking that the former franchisee's new business is still affiliated with Cicis.
For a prospective franchisee, this means understanding that upon termination of the franchise agreement, they must completely disassociate themselves from the Cicis brand. This includes not only ceasing to use Cicis's trademarks and trade dress but also avoiding any actions that could imply a continued association. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in legal action by Cicis to protect its brand and intellectual property.
It is a common practice in franchising to include such post-termination clauses to protect the brand and prevent unfair competition. Franchise agreements typically outline specific steps a franchisee must take to de-identify their former business, ensuring a clean break and preventing consumer confusion.