How will Deck Medic respond to a franchisee's request for approval of marketing media?
Deck_Medic Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Generally All advertising, marketing, marketing materials and all marketing mediums used by you in the marketing and promotion of the Franchised Business must be pre-approved by us in writing and conform to our standards and specifications. You may only use those advertising and marketing materials and mediums that we designate and approve in writing. In our discretion we may make available to you approved marketing templates comprised of pre-approved ads, ad copy and digital media that you may utilize at your own expense. If you wish to utilize marketing materials and/or marketing mediums that are not currently approved by us in writing, you may submit a written request requesting permission and we will approve or disapprove of your request within 15 days of your submission of the written request and sample marketing materials. We are not required to conduct any advertising or spend any amount on your behalf on advertising in your operating territory. (Franchise Agreement, Article 9);
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 24–29)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Deck Medic's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, all advertising, marketing materials, and mediums used by a franchisee must be pre-approved in writing by Deck Medic and conform to their standards. Franchisees are only allowed to use advertising and marketing materials that Deck Medic designates and approves in writing. Deck Medic may provide approved marketing templates, including pre-approved ads, ad copy, and digital media, for franchisees to use at their own expense.
If a franchisee wants to use marketing materials or mediums not already approved, they must submit a written request with sample materials. Deck Medic will then approve or disapprove the request within 15 days of submission. Deck Medic also retains full discretion over marketing standards and the marketing media used by franchisees.
This means that as a Deck Medic franchisee, you have limited autonomy over your marketing efforts and must adhere to Deck Medic's guidelines. While Deck Medic may offer pre-approved templates, any deviation requires formal approval, potentially adding time and complexity to your marketing initiatives. The 15-day response timeframe provides some clarity, but the ultimate decision rests with Deck Medic. Franchisees should factor in these requirements when planning and budgeting for local marketing efforts, as 5% of the previous year's gross sales must be spent on local marketing.