Does Craters & Freighters have the right to use the name of a celebrity in advertising?
Craters_Freighters Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We have the sole right to market on the Internet and use our trademarks on the Internet, including all use of websites, domain names, URLs, directory addresses, email addresses, metatags, linking, advertising, cobranding and other arrangements, and in all other forms of electronic media. You may not separately register any domain name or any portion of a domain name containing our trademarks or participate or market on any website or other form of electronic media (including social technology, social media and social networking platforms) using our trademarks unless you first obtain written approval from us. Your general conduct on the Internet or other forms of electronic media, including your use of our trademarks or any advertising, is subject to the terms and conditions of the Franchise Agreement and any other rules, requirements or policies that we may identify from time to time.
Computer Systems and Software
We will grant you access to the Proprietary Software and select software. The Proprietary Software is designed to provide you assistance with customer relationship management, quoting process, job flow, custom container design, calendaring, reporting, and transportation management.
Source: Item 18 — PUBLIC FIGURES (FDD page 44)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
The 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document for Craters & Freighters does not explicitly state whether they have the right to use a celebrity's name in advertising. However, the document does state that Craters & Freighters has the sole right to market on the Internet and use their trademarks on the Internet, including all use of websites, domain names, URLs, directory addresses, email addresses, metatags, linking, advertising, cobranding and other arrangements, and in all other forms of electronic media.
Furthermore, franchisees may develop advertising media for their own use, at their own cost, providing all media is in compliance with current branding and System Standards. Craters & Freighters must approve the advertising materials in advance and in writing. This suggests that while franchisees can create their own advertising, it must adhere to the brand's standards and receive prior approval from Craters & Freighters.
Because the FDD does not specifically address the use of celebrity names or likenesses in advertising, it is important for a prospective franchisee to discuss this topic directly with Craters & Freighters. Clarification should be sought on what is permissible in advertising and whether there are any restrictions or guidelines regarding the use of celebrity endorsements or names. Understanding these guidelines is crucial for franchisees to ensure their advertising efforts comply with Craters & Freighters' policies and legal requirements.