Who are considered 'Telephone Companies' in the context of the Dryject Franchise Agreement?

According to the 2025 Dryject Franchise Disclosure Document, "Telephone Companies" are defined within the context of the Telephone Listing Agreement. Specifically, Dryject defines "Telephone Companies" as all telephone companies, telephone directory publishers, and telephone directory listing agencies with which the franchisee has telephone numbers and listings related to the franchised business or the Dryject marks.

This definition is important because upon termination of the Franchise Agreement, Dryject has the right to direct the franchisee to transfer all rights and interests in telephone numbers and listings to Dryject. This includes directing the Telephone Companies to execute documents and take actions necessary to effectuate the transfer. Dryject is also granted the power to direct these Telephone Companies to transfer or terminate the franchisee's interest in telephone numbers and listings.

Furthermore, the franchisee releases Telephone Companies from any claims related to the Telephone Listing Agreement once the transfer of interest in telephone numbers and listings has occurred. However, the franchisee remains liable to the Telephone Companies for any sums obligated before the transfer date or for any other obligations not subject to the Franchise Agreement or Telephone Listing Agreement. This ensures a clean transfer of telephone-related assets from the franchisee to Dryject upon termination, while protecting the Telephone Companies from liabilities and clarifying the franchisee's remaining obligations.