Can third parties contribute to Dollar Rent A Car's advertising fund?

According to Dollar Rent A Car's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a regional or national advertising fund is established, third parties may contribute to it. These contributions are based on agreements to feature the third parties' products or services in Dollar Rent A Car's advertising. This arrangement could provide additional resources for advertising and promotion, potentially benefiting franchisees through increased brand awareness and customer traffic.

However, the FDD also states that Dollar Rent A Car's Parent company does not plan to audit or prepare separate financial statements for these funds, if established. This means franchisees would not have access to a detailed accounting of the funds' income and expenses. Any administrative expenses incurred by Dollar Rent A Car and third parties will be charged to the fund at cost, if funds are established.

Dollar Rent A Car retains sole discretion over the planning, media placement, creative concepts, and territorial allocation of advertising programs. While franchisees may use their own advertising material under certain conditions, it requires written approval from Dollar Rent A Car. This approval process ensures that all advertising aligns with the brand's standards and image. Prospective franchisees should consider both the potential benefits of increased advertising revenue and the limitations on financial transparency and creative control.