Can City Publications supplement, improve, or modify the System at any time?
City_Publications Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
t the Franchised Business is being operated in accordance with the quality control provisions and performance standards established by Franchisor.
F. Discontinuance of Use of Marks
If it becomes advisable at any time, in Franchisor's sole discretion, for Franchisor and/or Franchisee to modify or discontinue use of any of the Marks, and/or use one (1) or more additional or substitute trade names, trademarks, service marks or other commercial symbols, Franchisee shall comply with Franchisor's directions within a reasonable time after notice to Franchisee by Franchisor. Franchisor shall not be required to reimburse Franchisee for its expenses in modifying or discontinuing the use of a Mark or any loss of goodwill associated with any modified or discontinued Mark or for any expenditures made by Franchisee to promote a modified or substitute trademark or service mark.
**G.
Source: Item 16 — RESTRICTIONS ON WHAT THE FRANCHISEE MAY SELL (FDD page 26)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 City Publications Franchise Disclosure Document, City Publications has the right to modify certain aspects of the franchise system. Specifically, City Publications can modify or discontinue the use of any of the Marks (trade names, trademarks, service marks or other commercial symbols) at any time, at its sole discretion. Franchisees are obligated to comply with City Publications' directions to modify or discontinue use of these marks within a reasonable time after receiving notice.
However, City Publications is not required to reimburse franchisees for any expenses incurred in modifying or discontinuing the use of a Mark. This includes any loss of goodwill associated with the modified or discontinued Mark, or for any expenditures made by the franchisee to promote a modified or substitute trademark or service mark. This policy places the financial burden of rebranding or adapting to new marks entirely on the franchisee.
Furthermore, the Franchise Agreement itself can only be modified by a written agreement between the franchisee and City Publications. The City Publications manual is subject to change, but these changes will not materially alter the franchisee's fundamental rights. This indicates that while City Publications can make changes to operational procedures and guidelines, it cannot unilaterally change the core rights and obligations outlined in the Franchise Agreement.