Can a Degree Wellness franchisee make unauthorized copies of the Confidential Information?
Degree_Wellness Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You (1) must not use, directly or indirectly, the Confidential Information in any other business or capacity or for any purpose other than as needed in the development or operation of your franchise during the term of the franchise; (2) must maintain the confidentiality of the Confidential Information during and after the term of the franchise and not directly or indirectly publish or otherwise disclose it to any third party; (3) must not make unauthorized copies of any portion of the Confidential Information disclosed in written form or another form or media; and (4) must adopt and implement all reasonable procedures, including any that we may prescribe periodically, to prevent the unauthorized use or disclosure of any of the Confidential Information, including restrictions on disclosure to your employees and the use of nondisclosure clauses in employment agreements with your employees.
Source: Item 14 — Patents, Copyrights, and Proprietary Information (FDD pages 47–48)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Degree Wellness's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are explicitly prohibited from making unauthorized copies of the Confidential Information. The FDD specifies that franchisees "must not make unauthorized copies of any portion of the Confidential Information disclosed in written form or another form or media." This restriction is in place both during and after the franchise term.
This means a Degree Wellness franchisee cannot reproduce the Operations Manual, training materials, marketing materials, or any other documents or digital assets containing Confidential Information without express permission from Degree Wellness. This restriction extends to all forms of media, whether written or digital.
The FDD also states that franchisees must implement procedures to prevent unauthorized use or disclosure of confidential information, including non-disclosure agreements with employees. This highlights the importance Degree Wellness places on protecting its proprietary information and the responsibility of the franchisee in maintaining its confidentiality. Failure to comply with these restrictions could result in legal action or termination of the franchise agreement.