Is a Craters & Freighters franchisee permitted to use the Marks in URLs or domain names?

According to the 2025 Craters & Freighters Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are restricted in their use of Craters & Freighters' trademarks, referred to as "Marks," on the internet. Specifically, franchisees cannot use the Marks alone or with any modifications as part of a corporate or business name, or in any form on the Internet. This prohibition includes, but is not limited to, URLs, domain names, email addresses, locators, links, metatags, or search techniques.

Before filing any registration documents for a company name, a Craters & Freighters franchisee must obtain prior written approval from Craters & Freighters. The Operations Manuals contain guidelines regarding proper trademark use and notices, which Craters & Freighters will update periodically at their discretion. Franchisees are also prohibited from using the Marks with any unauthorized product or service, or in any manner not explicitly authorized in writing by Craters & Freighters.

These restrictions are typical in franchising, as franchisors need to protect their brand identity and ensure consistent representation across all franchise locations. By controlling the use of trademarks in domain names and online, Craters & Freighters can prevent brand confusion and maintain uniformity in how customers find and interact with the brand online. This also allows Craters & Freighters to manage and protect its online presence more effectively.

If Craters & Freighters modifies or discontinues the use of a Mark, franchisees must also modify or discontinue its use. In such cases, Craters & Freighters will reimburse the franchisee for tangible out-of-pocket costs of compliance, such as changing letterhead and business cards. Franchisees are also prohibited from directly or indirectly contesting Craters & Freighters' rights to the Marks, trade secrets, or business techniques.