Who is the counsel that a Coffee News franchisee must provide assistance to in litigation or administrative proceedings?

According to Coffee News's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee must provide assistance to the counsel of 2703203, Manitoba, Inc., Coffee News itself, and its publishers in any litigation or administrative proceeding. This obligation arises in situations where there are infringements or challenges to the use of the "Coffee News" name or format within the franchisee's licensed geographic area.

This requirement means that if Coffee News or 2703203, Manitoba, Inc. becomes involved in legal action related to trademark issues, franchisees are expected to cooperate and provide necessary support as directed by their counsel. This assistance could include providing documents, giving testimony, or performing other actions to protect the interests of Coffee News and its trademarks.

The FDD emphasizes that 2703203, Manitoba, Inc. has sole discretion to take action it deems appropriate and the right to exclusively control any litigation. Franchisees must execute all instruments and documents, give all assistance and perform those acts to protect and maintain Coffee News's interests. Any financial benefits resulting from such legal actions will go to 2703203, Manitoba, Inc. This underscores the importance of protecting the Coffee News brand and the legal obligations franchisees have in doing so.