Is a Cordova franchisee required to use only the Licensed Marks?
Cordova Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
At the time of signing the Franchise Agreement we will designate a geographic area comprising your operating territory. Your right to use the System will be limited to offering and providing our Approved Services and Products within your operating territory using only our System Supplies, the Licensed Marks and the specifications and requirements set forth in our Manuals and as otherwise constituting a part of our System.
Source: Item 1 — THE FRANCHISOR AND ANY PARENTS, PREDECESSORS AND AFFILIATES (FDD pages 7–9)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cordova's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to use the Licensed Marks. The FDD specifies that a franchisee's right to use the Cordova System is limited to offering approved services and products within their operating territory. This offering must be done using only the System Supplies, the Licensed Marks, and the specifications and requirements outlined in Cordova's manuals.
This means that franchisees cannot use any branding, trademarks, or logos that are not explicitly approved and licensed by Cordova. This requirement ensures brand consistency across all franchise locations and helps to maintain the integrity of the Cordova brand. Franchisees must adhere strictly to the guidelines provided in the manuals and other directives from Cordova regarding the use of the Licensed Marks.
For a prospective franchisee, this underscores the importance of understanding and adhering to Cordova's branding guidelines. Failure to use the Licensed Marks correctly could result in a breach of the franchise agreement. It is essential to review the operations manual and any updates provided by Cordova to ensure compliance with these requirements. This also means a franchisee cannot create their own marketing materials or branding that deviates from what Cordova has approved.