Does Deka Lash consider the studio design, furniture, fixtures, and equipment as their intellectual property?
Deka_Lash Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
replace or add to your existing software, subscriptions, licenses, tablets, computer systems and equipment at your sole expense.
- 6.12 Telephone Number. You agree to maintain a dedicated telephone number for your Franchised Business. You must reimburse us for the actual cost of any phone number we assign to your Franchised Business and pay for ourselves.
- 6.13 Brand Image and Remodeling. You agree to keep your Franchised Business clean, attractive and well maintained in order to uphold the image and goodwill of our franchise system
and in compliance with the Operations Manual. You agree that your studio layout must be approved by us and that all studio stations, flooring, furniture, cabinets, chairs, stools, mirrors, decorations, signage, other items, and colors must be as specified by us.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 63–234)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
Based on the 2024 Deka Lash Franchise Disclosure Document, while it doesn't explicitly state that the studio design, furniture, fixtures, and equipment are considered intellectual property, it does emphasize Deka Lash's control over its brand image and requires franchisees to maintain the studio in compliance with the Operations Manual. This suggests that the overall look and feel of the studio are important to the brand and subject to Deka Lash's standards.
The FDD states that franchisees must keep their Franchised Business clean, attractive, and well-maintained to uphold the image and goodwill of the franchise system. This indicates that Deka Lash has specific standards for the appearance and upkeep of the studio. Franchisees are required to adhere to these standards, which are detailed in the Operations Manual.
Furthermore, the document mentions that all software, subscriptions, licenses, tablets, computer systems, and equipment must conform to Deka Lash's specifications, which may be updated or modified. Franchisees are responsible for promptly modifying, replacing, or adding to their existing software and equipment at their own expense to meet these changes. This level of control over the studio's elements implies that Deka Lash considers these aspects important for maintaining a consistent brand image and customer experience. A prospective franchisee should clarify with Deka Lash the extent to which the design and specific elements of the studio are protected or controlled by Deka Lash.