What must a City Publications franchisee do with related websites and social media accounts upon termination?
City_Publications Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchised Business at the time of termination. Franchisee will immediately, upon Franchisor's request, turn over to Franchisor all materials necessary for Franchisor's exercise of its right to complete and deliver said orders in a timely manner. Franchisor will be entitled to any amounts prepaid or receivable for such orders.
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- Upon termination, cancellation or expiration of this Agreement, Franchisee shall cease to use all related websites, social media
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 39–129)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to City Publications' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, upon termination, cancellation, or expiration of the Franchise Agreement, a franchisee must cease using all related websites, social media accounts, digital marketing, and other branding assets associated with the franchise. The franchisee is also required to provide full access and transfer ownership of all related accounts and materials to City Publications. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in a penalty of $1000 per month until the issue is resolved, which is considered liquidated damages for the breach of contract.
This provision ensures that City Publications maintains control over its brand and online presence after a franchise agreement ends. It prevents former franchisees from potentially misrepresenting themselves as part of the City Publications system or using the brand's reputation for their own benefit. The financial penalty serves as an incentive for franchisees to promptly comply with the termination requirements.
For a prospective franchisee, this means understanding that any online presence they establish for their City Publications franchise, including websites and social media accounts, ultimately belongs to the franchisor. Upon termination, they must be prepared to relinquish control of these assets. This is a common practice in franchising, as it protects the brand's integrity and prevents confusion in the marketplace. Franchisees should factor this into their business planning, particularly when considering the time and resources they invest in building an online presence for their franchise.