Can Craters & Freighters use other proprietary marks that are not confusingly similar to its trademarks?
Craters_Freighters Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
(3) to use and license the use of other proprietary and non-proprietary marks or methods which are not the same as or confusingly similar to our trademarks, whether in alternative channels of distribution or in the operation of a business offering shipping, packaging, crating, receiving and delivery, storage, transportation, moving, logistics, blanket wrap, and freight forwarding services and products, at any location, including within the Territory, which may be similar to or different from the business operated by you;
(4) to purchase or be purchased by, or merge or combine with, any business, including a business that competes directly with your Franchised Business, wherever located, so long as that business does not operate under the same or similar trademarks or service marks as the Marks (as such term is defined below);
Source: Item 12 — TERRITORY (FDD pages 29–32)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Craters & Freighters Franchise Disclosure Document, Craters & Freighters retains the right to use and license other proprietary and non-proprietary marks that are not the same as or confusingly similar to its trademarks. This applies whether in alternative channels of distribution or in the operation of a business offering similar services such as shipping, packaging, crating, and freight forwarding. Craters & Freighters can do this at any location, including within a franchisee's territory, regardless of whether the business is similar to the franchisee's.
This means that a Craters & Freighters franchisee's exclusive territory does not prevent the franchisor from using different brands or trademarks, as long as they are not confusingly similar to the Craters & Freighters brand, to offer similar services within the same territory. This could potentially lead to increased competition within a franchisee's territory from businesses affiliated with the franchisor but operating under a different brand.
Furthermore, Craters & Freighters also reserves the right to purchase or be purchased by, or merge or combine with, any business, even one that competes directly with a franchisee's business, as long as that business does not operate under the same or similar trademarks or service marks as Craters & Freighters. These stipulations highlight the importance of a prospective franchisee understanding the competitive landscape and the potential for Craters & Freighters to introduce other brands or partnerships that could impact their business.