Is a Dollar Rent A Car franchisee allowed to advertise outside of their territory?
Dollar_Rent_A_Car Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee is prohibited from and shall not use the Hertz trademark and other proprietary marks (the "Hertz Marks"), the Dollar trademark and other proprietary marks (the "Dollar Marks") and the Thrifty trademark and other proprietary marks (the "Thrifty Marks") together, or in any combination, at any time in any form of advertising, promotion or marketing activities in any medium or in any paper or electronic directories, except as specifically authorized in the applicable Operations Guides, or otherwise in writing by Hertz, Dollar and Thrifty.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 102–301)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
The 2025 Dollar Rent A Car Franchise Disclosure Document does not explicitly state whether a franchisee is allowed to advertise outside of their territory. However, the document does state that the franchisee is prohibited from using the Dollar trademark and other proprietary marks in any form of advertising, promotion, or marketing activities, unless specifically authorized in the applicable Operations Guides, or otherwise in writing by Dollar Rent A Car.
This suggests that while there might be restrictions on advertising outside the territory, it is not entirely prohibited. Dollar Rent A Car franchisees must adhere to the guidelines set forth in the Operations Guides or obtain written authorization from Dollar Rent A Car to engage in any advertising activities, including those that may extend beyond their designated territory.
Prospective franchisees should carefully review the Operations Guides and the Franchise Agreement to understand the specific limitations and requirements regarding advertising. It would be prudent to seek clarification from Dollar Rent A Car regarding the possibility of advertising outside the assigned territory and the conditions under which such advertising may be permitted. Understanding these advertising rules is crucial for developing effective marketing strategies and ensuring compliance with the franchise agreement.