What does City Wide consider to be included in the 'Business Records' that they own?
City_Wide Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
low CITY WIDE's Internet usage rules, policies and requirements. CITY WIDE retains the sole and absolute right to use the Marks on the Internet, including on websites, as domain names, directory addresses, search terms and meta-tags, and in connection with linking, marketing, co-branding and other arrangements. Franchisee shall use and participate in any Intranet system or other related technology hosting system that CITY WIDE establishes.
SECTION 11. Statements and Records Maintained by Franchisee
- 11.1 CITY WIDE's Ownership of Business Records. Franchisee acknowledges and agrees that CITY WIDE is the exclusive owner of all business records, accounts, books, data, licenses, reports, and contracts ("Business Records") with respect to customers and other service professionals of, and related to, the Franchised Business including, without limitation, all databases (whether in print, electronic or other form), including all names, addresses, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, customer purchase records, and all other records contained in the database, and all other Business Records created and maintained by Franchisee.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 65)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to City Wide's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, City Wide considers itself the exclusive owner of all business records related to the franchised business's customers and service professionals. These 'Business Records' include accounts, books, data, licenses, reports, and contracts. City Wide also owns all databases (in any format), including names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, customer purchase records, and any other records within those databases.
City Wide retains the right to access, use, transfer, or analyze these business records both during the term of the franchise agreement and after its termination, expiration, or cancellation. This access and usage are at City Wide's discretion, as they determine to be in the best interest of the City Wide system.
Furthermore, any emails and data associated with any City Wide email address are considered Business Records. This means that all electronic communications and information stored within the City Wide email system are owned by City Wide, not the franchisee. This has significant implications for franchisee autonomy and data privacy, as City Wide has broad rights to access and control this information.