What action has Engel & Volkers taken regarding the affidavits of Continuing Use and Incontestability for the trademarks?

According to Engel & Volkers' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, all required affidavits of Continuing Use and Incontestability have been filed for their trademarks. Furthermore, E&V Marken and Grund Genug Verlag, the owners of some of the Engel & Volkers trademarks, intend to renew the registrations before their expiration.

For a prospective franchisee, this indicates that Engel & Volkers is actively maintaining its trademark portfolio. Filing affidavits of Continuing Use is a standard procedure to ensure that registered trademarks remain active and enforceable. These affidavits confirm that the trademark is still in use in commerce, which is a requirement for maintaining the registration.

The statement that E&V Marken and Grund Genug Verlag intend to renew the registrations before their expiration provides further assurance that Engel & Volkers is committed to protecting its brand identity. Trademark registrations have a limited lifespan and must be renewed periodically to remain in effect. This proactive approach to trademark management can reduce the risk of trademark disputes or challenges that could disrupt a franchisee's business operations.

Overall, Engel & Volkers' attention to these details suggests a mature and legally sound approach to managing its intellectual property, which is a positive sign for potential franchisees. It is essential for franchisees to operate under a brand that actively defends its trademarks, as this protects the brand's reputation and market position.